The Period Becomes a Comma
A.W. Tozer explores the significance of Jesus' resurrection and its implications for believers, emphasizing hope and continuity in the Christian narrative.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of Christ's resurrection, illustrating that while death is often seen as the final period in life, Jesus' resurrection serves as a comma, indicating that the story continues. He reflects on the miracles of restoration performed by Jesus, such as the raising of Lazarus and Jairus's daughter, which were temporary reprieves from death. Tozer highlights that these miracles foreshadowed the ultimate victory over death that Jesus achieved, leading to the continuation of His story in the Book of Acts and beyond. The resurrection signifies not just a return to life, but the promise of eternal life and the ongoing work of Christ in the world. This message invites believers to understand that death is not the end, but a transition to a greater narrative of hope and purpose.
Text
He was dead, but He is alive forevermore. That such a thing could be was intimated by the miracles of restoration which our Lord performed during His earthly ministry. The widow's son was brought back to life for a brief time; at our Lord's gentle call Jairus's little daughter rose from her bed of death; and Lazarus, at Christ's command, came forth bound hand and foot. These were but vague disclosures of what was to come, and were at best only temporary suspensions of the inexorable law which demands that death shall always follow life--death complete and final. For these all died again, and the rule of biography was upheld. Each ended in a sepulcher at last.
And that sepulcher was the period at the end of the last chapter.
What a perpetual wonder it is, then, that the biography of Jesus had to be resumed. Luke added not merely another chapter, but a whole book. The book of Acts was a logical necessity. "He showed himself alive after his passion," writes Luke. The rest of the New Testament gives us some idea of what He is doing now, and prophecy reveals a little of what He will be doing through the ages to come.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The reality of death and its finality - Miracles of restoration as foreshadowing - The temporary nature of earthly life
- II points: - The significance of Jesus' resurrection - The continuation of His story in Acts - The implications for believers today
- III points: - The hope of eternal life - Understanding prophecy and future promises - Living in light of the resurrection
Key Quotes
“He was dead, but He is alive forevermore.” — A.W. Tozer
“What a perpetual wonder it is, then, that the biography of Jesus had to be resumed.” — A.W. Tozer
“He showed himself alive after his passion.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Reflect on the hope that the resurrection brings to your life and faith.
- Consider how the miracles of Jesus can strengthen your understanding of His power.
- Engage with the book of Acts to understand the ongoing story of Jesus through His followers.