“[Jesus] included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own.” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15, MSG)
The Bible is full of commands. But do you know what the most common one is? Don’t be afraid. You’ll find it 365 times in Scripture — including several times in the Easter story. “Don’t be afraid” were the first words the angel told those who showed up at the tomb on Easter morning. They were also the first words Jesus spoke after the resurrection.
It’s no wonder why it’s a common theme of the Bible and in the Easter story: Fear is humanity’s most common problem.
You might not think you’re a fearful person. But if you think about it, you may realize that many of your decisions are based on fear, such as the fear of what people think of you and the fear of failure.
But Easter brings good news! Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, you can now live without fear. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, “[Jesus] included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own” (MSG).
When you live according to the resurrection of Christ, the Bible says you’re living a better life, a life where you’re free from fear.
In fact, there are five truths about the resurrection that will set you free from fear if you understand them. I’ll share these truths over the next two days.
First, you know Jesus tells you the truth. Throughout history many people have claimed to be God or the Messiah — but only one proved it. The Bible says, “[Jesus] was declared to be God’s Son with great power by rising from the dead” (Romans 1:4, NCV).
Without the resurrection, you couldn’t trust anything Jesus said. But you can trust what Jesus says about God, heaven, and everything else He taught because He rose from the dead like He said He would.
Second, you know death isn’t the end. Until Jesus rose from the dead, people didn’t know if there was life after death because there was no proof. Jesus changed that. The Bible tells us, “God raised the Lord Jesus from the dead, and we know that God will also raise us with Jesus” (2 Corinthians 4:14, NCV). You don’t need to fear death, because Jesus’ resurrection shows us that death isn’t the end of the story. It’s really the beginning of your best life — your eternal life in God’s presence.
Prayer
Lord, I thank You for being with me through my life and for the blessings You have given me. Continue to be with me even when I fail, and shower me with Your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
