Despite the fact that some people have doubts about the physical resurrection of Jesus, it is still the heart of Christianity. In 1 Corinthians Ch 15, the Apostle Paul affirms this. He testifies that he knew of more than 500 eyewitnesses who saw Jesus alive after he died. He went on to say, “If Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.” But he asserts “Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.” We read in Matt Ch 28 that several women went to Jesus’ tomb the Sunday after he was buried. An angel was waiting for them. He had rolled back the stone from the tomb. The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid!” “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying.” “Go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead.” Sadly, not every person believes this simple account, but those who do and repent of their sins receive God’s forgiveness. They dedicate their lives to show compassion, to work for justice, to live righteously as Jesus taught and did.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
