The Undeniable Importance of Both: Christ’s Crucifixion and Resurrection

When discussing the essential elements of Christian belief, many theologians and believers often emphasize the significance of Jesus’ death or resurrection. However, a thorough understanding of Christian theology requires recognizing that both aspects hold equal importance. Without either, a comprehensive view of Jesus Christ and His saving power is incomplete.

Equally Important: The Crucifixion and Resurrection

Both the crucifixion and the resurrection are pivotal in the narrative of Christian salvation. Christ’s death on the cross is widely recognized as the means by which we are redeemed from sin. However, it is the resurrection that provides the definitive proof that the death was not a defeat but a victory. If Christ did not rise from the dead, He would merely be a defeated God, slain but without ultimate triumph over sin and death.

Christ’s Death: The Means of Redemption

Death on the cross was necessary for the atonement of sins. Jesus’ sacrifice, considered the “blood of the new covenant,” enables God to cleanse believers from their sins. This atonement is why we participate in the Lord’s Supper, remembering Christ’s covenant work in sustaining us through His blood. Without the resurrection, there would be no clear divine interpretation or divine endorsement of this sacrifice.

Unintendiability Without the Resurrection

Promise Credibility and Trustworthiness

The resurrection is crucial in establishing the credibility of Jesus’ promises. The Gospels are filled with Jesus’ repeated predictions of His resurrection, such as in Matthew 12:40, 16:21, and 20:19. If Jesus had not risen, He would be either deceived or a deceiver. However, the fulfillment of His promise showcases His divine authority and reliability. As C. S. Lewis so eloquently put it, Jesus’ most significant promise has come true, and this makes us trust and obey all His other promises.

The Resurrection and the Church’s Foundation

The Apostolic Message and Church Unity

Jesus’ resurrection is foundational to the apostolic message, which underpins the church’s structure and mission. Prior to the resurrection, the disciples were effectively scattered and disheartened (Matthew 26:31-32). The news of the risen Christ dramatically transformed their hearts, turning them into faithful followers. The accounts of the first witness of the empty tomb to the risen Christ ( Matthew 28:7-10) and the impact of His post-resurrection appearances encouraged the church to continue the mission of spreading the gospel (Matthew 28:16-20).

The Significance of the Cross and Resurrection

Sacrificial Living and Humility

The cross is not an endpoint but a starting point for a new life. As followers of Christ, we are called to die to self-interest and rise to new life (Romans 6:1-11). This model of sacrificial living was exemplified by Christ, who taught that a self-centered life is miserable and that true abundance is found in sacrificing self-interest for the greater good. This transformative model is invalid if Christ’s suffering did not lead to His resurrection and His coronation. Paul’s teaching in Philippians 2:1-13 emphasizes this, rooted in Christ’s own humility leading to His exaltation.

A New Earth: Eschatological Justice and Shalom

Final Redemption and Vindication

The resurrection also guarantees that justice and restoration will prevail in the end. The cries of the martyrs from the earth (Matthew 23:35) and the countless injustices in history will ultimately be addressed, bringing ultimate justice (Revelation 6:9-11). The resurrection signifies that the will of God will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). The resurrection establishes a future vision of shalom, providing a tangible hope for the ultimate reckoning of sin and the final defeat of Satan.

The Heart of the Gospel: Crucifixion and Resurrection

The Full Purpose of the Gospel

While the centrality of the cross is undeniable, the meaning of the crucifixion remains unclear without the resurrection. The resurrection provides the essential explanation of Jesus’ death why it was necessary and the proof of its saving power. Any presentation of the good news of Jesus Christ must highlight His resurrection, centering on His death as a means to an end and the resurrection as the proof of the power of that death. A “gospel” that does not include the resurrection alongside the crucifixion is not the authentic message of Jesus and His apostles.

Christ is not merely a dead martyr to be pitied but a living, reigning Lord to be loved and emulated. His life in present suffering and His ultimate reward in the future remind us of the hope of both current and ultimate victory.

Ultimately, both the crucifixion and resurrection are integral to the story of Christ and His redemptive work. They together form the basis of Christian belief, experience, and mission. The full significance of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection is vital to our understanding of the gospel and our own faith journey.