PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 27:45-53
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.” (Matthew 27:52)
In vv.51-53 we see the turning point of history, when Genesis 3 is reversed.
The curse on creation and human life (death) is overcome (vv.52-53).
And the Moses covenant centered in the temple is fulfilled, and therefore ended.
We are restored to fellowship with God, and the result is radically different.
I believe in a God that created life, and can resurrect life.
More than that, I believe in a God that has overcome Satan, sin and death.
These extra resurrections, as well as the torn curtain and earthquake, make the point.
I will not waste time trying to explain or defend if these things really happened.
They are signs, meant to focus our attention on what Jesus is doing, and has done!
The death of Jesus is the turning point of history, as a result everything changes.
Death has been beaten, creation has been liberated, and the Moses Way has ended.
These are all aspects of the curse in Genesis 3; Jesus has broken the curse!
I don’t know exactly what transpired in that moment, or how… but it was momentous.
And life is not the same anymore, because Jesus died for us!
PRAYER
Lord, this is hard to believe. But because of my hope in God and you, I cling to the hope of resurrection life, the restored creation and freedom from religion. Thank you!
“The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.” Amazing that some think that at this time Elijah will come – maybe it’s because Jesus calls out Eloi that they thought that Jesus was calling for Elijah to rescue him. Jesus did not need Elijah yet when Jesus cried My God., “My God, My God why have you forsaken me” – Jesus feels the full extent of the curse of sin – total rejection from God. His cry bears witness to all that Jesus suffered the ‘hell’ of separation from God – for us. Let that sink in! I deserve to be in his place! I too feel a separation from my loved ones when they die – being at the gravesite we see the effect. Separation is real. We believe in the resurrection: death is not the end of our story! Jesus is now our living story – now and forever!
The veil was torn. The separation of God and His people was removed. Come as you are are to Jesus. He is the only way. The voice who raised Lazarus also raises you and me. Jesus has set us free through His death and resurrection. Look at what He has done for us! Amazing grace form death to life.
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.
–John Newton, 1725-1807