The Resurrection

It was real flesh and blood that brought sin and death into the world. It is the real flesh and blood of Christ Jesus that made payment for sin and conquered death. So it will be real flesh and blood that is raised up at the last day, incorruptible and imperishable.

Everything around you is subject to decay, even the sun and the moon that have shown upon mankind from the beginning of creation. You may bring new things into your temporal life, but by now you know these do not last. Try as we might to manufacture something that does not break or fade, everything breaks and fades anyway.

“For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” –Romans 8:20-21

The resurrection of the flesh and blood of Christ Jesus which we celebrate this day is proof positive that a new creation has been introduced into our midst, one in which we partake, being joined to Him by faith, in baptism, and in His supper. Because our acquaintance with breaking and fading is so prevalent, the idea of bodies raised up and incorruptible seems distant.

The Holy Scriptures are replete with references to the resurrection of the dead. God is a God of the living, not the dead. All the saints of old who have gone before us are alive, while their bodies rest for a short time, will be raised up at the last day because Jesus, the First Fruit of the Resurrection, lives and abides in them as a Vine lives and abides in its own branches.

The extent to which you are tied into the resurrection of the dead is complete. Even unbelievers will be raised up at the Last Day, raised up to receive in their bodies the fruits of unbelief, namely eternal anguish and pain; eternal separation and banishment.

But for you, baptized child of God in Christ Jesus, awaits a place where all pain and anguish ceases; where only pure joy is found. He has plucked you out of the net and raised you up. He has seated you in the heavenly places in Christ; He is bringing you to completion at the Last Day, because for you He is risen from the dead.
+ + +