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Read: 1 Thessalonians 4:14
Listen: 1 Thessalonians 4

For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 1 Thessalonians 4:14

In response to the Thessalonians’ concern about deceased believers, Paul writes to them one of the first Christian creeds: “We believe that Jesus died and rose again.” Elsewhere, Paul would write that “if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17). Jesus’s resurrection is, therefore, central to the good news of the gospel. It is like the firm foundation of a house upon which the rest is built. Paul makes plain that without this firm foundation, there is no Christian faith.

As Christians, we hold on to the same hope the Thessalonian believers did. Jesus is the “firstfruits” of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20). Just as he was raised from the dead, we will be as well. This should give us great hope and encouragement for how we live today. This truth also provides hope when friends or family who believe in Jesus die. With full confidence, we know we will see them again. Because Jesus lives, we can grieve with hope, knowing that the best is yet to come.

TODAY: Sometimes, the best way to celebrate a truth is to do so through song. Remember and celebrate the truth of Jesus’s resurrection by singing with Ada Bible Worship, “He Lives.” Praise God that “He is risen, he is risen he’s alive…Jesus lives.” Ask God to help you live with this hope today.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Nehemiah 3-4. Highlight anything that points to Jesus.