The View of the Victorious

Among the major ironies of the resurrection was the assurance that came because of what was NOT seen.  When the women and the disciples came to the tomb and did not find the body of Jesus, they were able to learn from the angels and from the lessons that Jesus had taught.   The angels reminded them that the living do not dwell among the dead.   Jesus had told them that He must suffer and die, but in three days, He would be raised.  Because the women and the disciples had witnessed the crucifixion, they assumed their last image of Jesus was the lasting and final image of Jesus

     In the days following the resurrection of Jesus, the testimonies about his appearances spread almost as fast as the doubt.  Even in contemporary times, the questions regarding the resurrection often outweigh and outnumber the testimonies.   The testimonies of the disciples could not outweigh Thomas’ questions.  The fears and suspicions that gripped the disciples and made them afraid to be seen in public were also fueled by the realization that at least one of the disciples had betrayed Jesus by identifying him to the Roman guards.  Each of the disciples were afraid that they would also be executed as a participant in the insurrection that Jesus was accused of leading.  However, rather than organizing a violent overthrow of the Roman government, Jesus liberated the people, both Israelites and Gentiles, by inviting them to declare their allegiance to God who establishes peace through love and humility.  

     Following the resurrection, Jesus was only seen by those who were His followers.  The public execution of Jesus was intended to intimidate and humiliate His followers.  Both the Pharisees and the Roman authorities believed their goal was accomplished when the disciples denied their association with Jesus and when the disciples went into hiding.  However, the empty grave provided the initial evidence of Christ’s victory over death, despair, fear and hopelessness.  The enthusiastic witness of the women and the other disciples restored their hope.  

    Their testimonies helped spread the Good News and provided a vision of the Kingdom of God.  Even now, we are able to live as examples of the resurrection power of God that lifts us above oppressive and humiliating circumstances.  As Jesus charged the disciples with the task of going into the world to make disciples, we are compelled to live as disciples, and to invite others to know Jesus and to follow Him.  

      The Visioning Team will be sharing more details of the ways that we will exhibit the impact and witness for Christ during the presentation Sunday afternoon from 1:00-3:00.   The team will also be listening for your feedback.  The team will be listening especially to hear your longings for the future of the church, the growth of the ministries and the expanding impact upon the community.  We are looking forward to seeing you.  

In Christ, 
Jon McCoy