“If Christ is not raised, your faith is futile; you’re still in your sins.” I Corinthians 15:17

Someone has said “Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it.” So let’s begin with some history.
        1. What historical event started pm June 28th, 1914?
        2. What historical event started on Oct. 25th, 1917?
        3. How about Dec. 7th, 1941?
        4. Or August 6th, 1945?
        5. What about Sept. 11, 2001?
        6. And last, do you know what happened on April 3rd, 33 AD?

        These dates are all the beginnings of historical events that changed our world. Each of these dates brings to mind images, emotions, and lessons mankind must learn if peace will ever prevail. However, the lessons of April 3rd, 33 AD, (or April 7th 30 AD) are lessons that each generation must come to acknowledge and the choose to live out.

        These 2 dates are the only 2 real possibilities for the crucifixion of Jesus. And this day, coupled with the resurrection of Jesus, becomes the greatest event in all of human history; with the greatest benefits for each of us if we will live out the lessons we learn from the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Please consider with me some of the benefits of Christ’s death/resurrection for each Christ-follower.

• A Savior who will never die again. Romans 6:9
  
• We can repent and receive forgiveness for our sins. I Cor. 15:17
  
• We can now be filled with the Holy Spirit Acts 2:32-33
  
• Christ-followers are no longer condemned. Romans 8:1
  
• Christ-followers receive personal fellowship and protection of Jesus. Matt. 28:20
  
• Jesus is coming again to judge both the living and the dead. Acts 17:31
  
• Christ-followers will not be judged for their sins. I John 1:9
  
• Christ-followers will be finally raised up into the Presence of Jesus. II Cor. 4:14
  

These are just a few of the benefits and lessons we are to live out as a result of the greatest event in the history of mankind.

        So, what about you? Are you doomed to continue to repeat the pattern of humanity which is expressed to us like this in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” OR will you learn the lessons of Easter, confess your sins, and commit yourself to become a Christ-follower and begin to experiencing the power of the Risen Christ in your life.

Your Pastor and friend,

Joel Kallberg

Answers to 1-5 are: 1-World War I, 2-Russian Revolution, 3-Pearl Harbor,
4-first atomic bomb, 5- Attack on World Trade Towers

Points from the Pastor's Pen .