Christianity points to the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the basis of hope that, after death, individuals who have lived selflessly in service to God and to their fellowmen will be likewise resurrected to everlasting life in an exalted state.

Ever since the existence of sin in the world, death has been an inevitable reality that humanity has never been able to accept gracefully. The sense of loss and final separation at the passing of loved ones never ceases to bring grief within the human family. Persons look with fear at the prospect of their own demise, taking as many precautions as lie within their power to postpone this eventuality.
Yet, notwithstanding the burglar bars, security fences, defensive and offensive weapons, hospitals and myriad human inventions, death can be at best postponed and only for a limited time, the duration of which can scarcely be considered as being under our control.

First century writers have testified that Jesus was seen alive on the third day after his death and appeared in the presence of many persons for a period of forty days thereafter. Such record has been provided not only by biblical writers. Other secular writers such as Flavius Josephus have given similar testimony. Unless there is credible evidence (which has not been forthcoming until now) that such testimonies were fabricated, there is no legitimate ground to reject the testimony of witnesses. It certainly cannot be rejected on the basis that it is impossible except persons are prepared to say that there is no God or that such an act is beyond the power of God to accomplish.

If God raised His Son Jesus Christ from the dead, then it is not unreasonable to accept the promise that we will likewise be raised if we believe and live righteously. If there is no resurrection and all there is to life is what we experience in our present lifetime, what basis exists for individuals to refrain from resorting to the most foul means even, to ensure that they get wealth, pleasure, power and all that they think might make for satisfaction here and now? It cannot be denied that many persons who try to be fair have suffered greatly, been denied justice and have had untimely and ignominious deaths, while others who seem to trample on those who are vulnerable and break virtually every rule of fairness seem to prosper in the present world order.

As a basis for peace and harmony Jesus admonished: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt.5:44). Indeed, were such principles universally practiced, there would be no disharmony anywhere, as everyone would seek the good of each other and would rather suffer than cause suffering. However, in a world where selfishness abounds, the upholders of such principles may seem to suffer and even die prematurely as was the experience of Jesus Himself. Yet, even in the face of death, rather than calling ten thousand angels to deliver Him and destroy His enemies, He prayed: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

To human eyes it may seem that He died as a fool. But, God honoured Him by raising Him from the dead (Gal 1:1) and has “highly exalted Him” (Phil.2:9). Such is the message and meaning of the resurrection, that God, who sees and knows all things, is faithful and will not fail to honour those who put their trust in Him and live unselfishly for the good of others.

Colin A. Gyles is Founder of GOD’S LOVE Ministry.