He is risen! He is risen indeed!

Christianity stands or falls on the resurrection. As Paul says in 1 Cor 15:12-18, if Jesus has not been raised from the dead, then Christians should be pitied, for we are still dead in our sins and our faith is in futile.

Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. (1 Cor 15:12-18, ESV)

But the good news of today is that the tomb was empty because Jesus is alive. The risen Jesus appeared to many and then ascended into heaven, where he now sits at the right hand of our Father, interceding for our sins. Death is defeated and in him we have new life.

What a glorious day!

This week at The Bible Talks (10 Feb 08)

Last night at church we reflected upon the resurrection of the dead with Rob Smith.

Here are some things that struck people from the sermon:

+ Resurrection is very black & white!
+ Resurrection affects all people and we need to keep in mind the people around us who are not Christians
+ not to fear death as a Christian
+ good reminder that there will be the resurrection (& jment). We've got to tell people about Jesus!
+ I was struck by the continuity but also transformation in the resurrection. I found that very clear.
+ Great to remember that the Resurrection motivates and encourages us now.
+ A great reminder that the intermediate state is temporary.
+ we are being constantly changed as we trust. And the ongoing change being shaped for the glorious times to come.
+ Most Christians have a ‘not today’ way of thinking when it comes to Christs return – yet scripture repeats the warning to be ready!
+ The striking thing for me at least is the practical outworking of 1 Co 15:58 – a ps of thanks to our great God and Saviour.
+ no second chance after death

Let continue to pray that we will be challenged and changed by God's word

Bible Study Launch Dinner

Don't forget that tomorrow night - Tuesday 12th February is the launch dinner for Bible Studies for 2008.

From 6.30pm-9pm we’ll be meeting together in the Upper Chapter House to share a meal together, hear a talk from Mike about the value of Prayer and Bible Study Groups, meet our group leaders for the year ahead, and have the opportunity to sign up for a group. The cost is just $10 for the dinner and we’d love it if you could come along. Even if you are not sure about joining a group, come along and check it out – you might be convinced of why it is a good idea!

Please let me know ASAP if you are able to make it at info@thebibletalks.org.au

Music by Moonlight

Join us on Friday 15 February 2008 for an evening of African, Latin and Caribeen music.

From 7pm – music starts @ 8pm
Free!
BYO Picnic dinner & a blanket to sit on
The Overflow @ Sydney Olympic Park
Catch the train to Olympic Park Station, or drive out and park at the site for $15