What the Apostles did next - The Significance of the Resurrection in Acts of the Apostles

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is the event that sets Christianity apart from all other religions. The book of Acts of the Apostles gives us a glimpse into what the apostles did after the resurrection and how the resurrection served as a foundation for the early Christian church. In this article, we will delve into the significance of the resurrection in Acts of the Apostles and how it impacts Christians year-round, not just at Easter.

The book of Acts begins with the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, forty days after his resurrection. The apostles are left wondering what to do next. They had witnessed Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, but they were still unsure about what to do. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells them, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

After the Holy Spirit comes upon them at Pentecost, the apostles begin to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. They go from city to city, spreading the good news of the resurrection and teaching people about the love and grace of God. The resurrection of Jesus Christ becomes the foundation of their message.

For example, in Acts 2:24, Peter proclaims, "But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." Peter emphasizes the miraculous nature of the resurrection and how it was a fulfillment of God's plan. He also points out that the resurrection was the ultimate defeat of death and sin, which had held humanity captive since the Fall.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ was not just a one-time event. Its significance has continued to impact the Christian faith throughout history. The resurrection is the foundation of our faith and informs our beliefs and practices.

For example, in 1 Corinthians 15:17, Paul writes, "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins." This verse underscores the importance of the resurrection in the Christian faith. Without the resurrection, there would be no hope for salvation, and our faith would be in vain.

Furthermore, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event that happened to Jesus. It is also a reality that Christians can experience in their lives. In Romans 6:4, Paul writes, "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." This verse emphasizes that just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too can experience a new life through our faith in him.

In conclusion, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a pivotal event in the Christian faith, and it serves as the foundation of the early Christian church. The resurrection is not just something we celebrate at Easter; it is a reality that impacts us year-round. As Christians, we must remember that the resurrection is not just something that happened to Jesus but something that we can experience in our own lives. The resurrection of Jesus gives us hope, salvation, and the promise of new life, and it is something we must hold onto every day of the year.