Principles of the Doctrine of Christ: The Resurrection of the Dead (continued))

Beloved, in continuance of our theme from the “Principles of the Doctrine of Christ” series, entitled “The Resurrection of the Dead” – many scriptures in the Old Testament support the doctrine of resurrection. For example, Job said, “all of the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come” (Job 14:14). He also said, “I know that my Redeemer liveth…though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God” (Job 19:25-26). Again, it is recorded in the 19th chapter of the Book of Psalms that “my flesh also shall rest in hope” (Psalm 16:9). Other examples can be found in Psalm 17:15; Isaiah 25:8, 26:19; and Hosea 13:14.

Precious Ones, Abraham’s faith in the resurrection was clearly shown when he offered up his son Isaac (his most precious gift from God). According to Paul, Abraham did this, “accounting that God was able to raise [Isaac] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure” (Hebrews 11:17-19). Beloved, in Paul’s time, resurrection was a well-established and proven doctrine. That is why Paul also wrote that “women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection” (Hebrews 11:35).

Chosen Ones, Paul appealed to our need to logically understand the doctrine of the Resurrection. He said of himself, “I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God, unto our fathers: Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come…Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?” (Acts 26:6-8). What Paul was saying is that if we believe in all of God’s promises and all of the miracles of the Old Testament, why should we not believe that Jesus was raised from the dead? We believe that God (1) parted the sea, (2) rained down quail, and (3) caused water to gush from a rock. So, why could He not raise the dead?

Children of God, you must clearly see that it makes no difference what situation seems to be dead (over, finished, done, with no chance of being accomplished); if you believe that God can raise Jesus from the dead, then you must believe that there is always hope for a child of God who puts trust in Him!

I will write more on this subject next week. Until then, know this…

I love you all SO very much,
In His Love,

Pastor William L. McCoy