The Resurrection and the Call to Discipleship
Scripture Reading:
"And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain."
— 1 Corinthians 15:14 (RSV)
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them... teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age."
— Matthew 28:19–20 (RSV)
Personal Reflection
Today, much of the world observes Easter Sunday, the day traditionally set aside to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While we may not endorse every cultural expression of the holiday, it is still a sacred opportunity to meditate deeply on the resurrection — the cornerstone of our faith.
Paul declared with stark clarity: If Christ has not been raised, our faith is in vain. That’s not poetic hyperbole; it’s theological truth. Without the resurrection, there is no Gospel. No justification. No eternal hope.
And yet, even those closest to Jesus — His disciples — struggled to comprehend the resurrection, though He told them plainly (Luke 9:22, Mark 9:31). They were confused, fearful, and scattered in disbelief when it happened. Should we be surprised?
I often find myself judging their slow understanding. “How could they not see it coming?” I ask. But then the Holy Spirit reminds me: I have the full written Word of God. I have His indwelling presence. And still, how often do I live as if He is not risen?
When faced with cultural pressure, financial uncertainty, or moral confusion in our nation, am I walking in the boldness of resurrection power — or shrinking back in doubt and passivity?
This is more than a question about belief. It is a test of discipleship. Jesus never said, “Admire Me.” He said, “Follow Me.” He never called us to mere church attendance or seasonal religion. He called us to die daily(Luke 9:23) and live wholly surrendered.
Contemplation
Do I truly live as if Christ is risen? What evidence in my life shows that?
Am I a disciple or just a churchgoer?
Have I taken Jesus’ words seriously about making disciples “as I go” in daily life?
Do I teach others — not just with words, but with actions — what it means to obey all that He commanded?
Prayer
Risen Lord,
Today, I give thanks that the tomb is empty. Death has lost its sting, the grave has no victory, and I am redeemed because You live. Forgive me, Lord, for the times I live in defeat while claiming to serve a risen King.
Forgive me for judging the early disciples while failing to act on what I know. I have Your Word. I have Your Spirit. And yet so often I lack obedience. I repent of shallow faith and delayed surrender.
Today, I recommit myself not just to believe in the resurrection but to live by its power. Make me a true disciple — one who denies self, takes up the cross, and follows You. And Lord, make me a discipler — one who teaches others to obey everything You have commanded.
Let this Resurrection Sunday not be about outward tradition, but inward transformation. Let my life proclaim: He is risen indeed!
In the name of the Risen Savior, Jesus the Messiah, Amen.
Key Takeaway:
The resurrection is not just a moment in history — it is the power behind a life of obedience. Today, and every day, we are called not just to believe in Jesus, but to follow Him and disciple others in the same path.
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