Everything in Christianity stands or falls on one question: Did Jesus Christ really rise from the
dead?
If the answer is no, Easter is nothing more than a tradition. But if the answer is yes, then it
changes everything—for every person who has ever lived.
Nearly two thousand years ago, a group of grieving women walked toward a tomb just outside
Jerusalem. Their teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, had been crucified and buried. They expected
silence, stone, and death.
Instead, they heard the words that changed the world: “He is not here, for He has risen, just as
He said” (Matthew 28:6).
That empty tomb is the foundation of the Christian faith.
The resurrection proves that Jesus is exactly who He claimed to be—the Son of God and the
promised Savior. Throughout His ministry, Jesus spoke about His coming death and resurrection.
When the tomb was found empty, it confirmed that His words were true and His mission was
accomplished.
But Easter is not only about what happened long ago—it speaks directly to us today.
The Bible tells us that every one of us has sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. We have lived
for ourselves instead of for the God who made us. The consequence of sin is death and judgment.
If the story had ended with Jesus in the grave, we would still be without hope.
But the story did not end there.
Jesus died in the place of sinners, bearing the punishment we deserved. And three days later He
rose from the dead, conquering sin, death, and the grave. The resurrection is God’s declaration
that Christ’s sacrifice was accepted and that forgiveness is now offered to all who will come to
Him.
Because Jesus lives, forgiveness is real.
Because Jesus lives, death does not have the final word.
Because Jesus lives, there is hope that reaches beyond the grave.
But Easter is not merely something to admire—it is something to answer.
The risen Christ calls every person everywhere to repent and believe the gospel. That means
turning from sin and trusting in Jesus Christ alone for salvation.
One day every person will stand before the risen Lord. The question is not whether Christ
lives—the empty tomb has already answered that. The question is whether we will bow to Him
now while mercy is still offered.
The good news of Easter is that the Savior who died and rose again still receives sinners today.
Turn to Him. Trust Him. And live.
Caleb Cunningham
Pastor, Cedar Baptist Church