The Jewish leaders thought they had finally rid themselves of the radical rabbi. The Gentile leadership, hoped that they had stopped the potential insurrection. Satan thought he had beaten God at his own game. In reality, they all played into the plan and purpose of God. Matthew’s gospel records several times, that “all these were done so that it might be fulfilled” According to 1 Corinthians 15 the proof that the death of Christ was sufficient to take away our sins, is seen in the resurrection of Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:13 says, “If Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty.” That leads to 1 Corinthians 15:2 which reminds us that “now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have died.” The hope of our lives is not in amassing untold wealth, or in becoming infamous in our person. The hope of our lives is eternal life through Jesus Christ. It is only through Him that what we do has meaning and purpose. Perhaps not to the multitudes and the history of mankind. But in the recording in heaven. If you want to find meaning and … READ MORE

On Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I have to wonder what it was like that first Sunday after the crucifixion of Christ. The women were going to the tomb with no hope, yet Jesus was already raised from the dead. It reminds me that we have so many people today who are going about their lives with no hope, because they do not realize that Jesus has raised from the dead. Life can be difficult and at times overwhelming, but the reality of the resurrection brings hope and perspective to all who will turn to the Savior, and find forgiveness of their sins, and peace in their circumstances. Today, take a few moments and continue to reflect back on that first Sunday after the crucifixion, and recognize the hope and perspective that Jesus brings because of His resurrection from the dead.… READ MORE

As we continue to reflect on Romans 8:1-4, we see that the Bible is very clear that when a person trusts in Christ, they begin to walk by the Spirit the same instant. Christ wants us to know Him and to walk with Him moment by moment. It must be our desire as we walk with Him to become Spirit-determined believers. Because we are declared righteous, when we come to Christ, we have the ability to have the law fulfilled in us, because through the Holy Spirit we now have the power to do what the law expects us to do. The purpose of the gospel message is not to make us happy, but to make us holy. Interestingly genuine happiness comes to those who belong to Christ and are obedient to His will.… READ MORE