Tim Keller | April 12, 1998
The Easter story tells us of a new beginning after disaster – that after death there is life. If you spiritualize the resurrection of Jesus, you will have comfort but not the truth. The message of Easter is that right now, Jesus has flesh and bones. This changes the way you think, the way you live, and the way you feel.
Luke’s Gospel counters the idea of thinking of Jesus’ resurrection as just a spiritual event. Instead, it highlights the physical reality of it, like Jesus physically appearing to his followers. The message of Easter is more than just bringing hope, it asks us to acknowledge the physical resurrection of Jesus. When we truly understand this, it can change how we think, live, and feel.
1. The mind
The resurrection of Jesus is a unique event that shows His authority and makes Christianity distinct from other faiths. The disciples saw this truth firsthand. It tells us that Jesus is not just a teacher, but the embodiment of Truth and Life, defeating death and living beyond decay. This claim isn’t just a spiritual story or myth, it asks us to either believe or not, making us face the reality of Jesus’ lordship.
2. The will
The resurrection of Jesus highlights the importance of the physical world and our future place in it. It’s not about escaping, but about experiencing a renewed heaven and earth filled with joy, love, and happiness. The physical pleasures we have now are just a preview of the future, a physical existence where we’ll do things like walk, dance, eat, drink, and love. The Easter message encourages us to appreciate this world, to fight for justice, and to help those who are suffering, as it symbolizes God’s promise to heal and renew the world.
3. The heart
The physical presence of Jesus, as described in the Gospels, invites us to have a personal relationship with him, showing qualities that attract us. His resurrection and ascension let us connect with him through faith, no matter where we are. Realizing our need for salvation and admitting our sinfulness is crucial to experiencing Jesus’ transformative power in our lives.