No Death, No Resurrection!

From the heart of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Teacher & Expositor. Paul teaches us, “Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned” (Romans 5:12). Romans 5:12–21 compares the work of Adam with the work of Jesus to show how sin and death came into the world, and how God made a way to overcome them. Adam, specially created by God, became the first lawbreaker when he ate from the restricted tree. He brought sin and death to all who came after him. Jesus, hung on a tree—a phrase implying crucifixion—paid for our sin, making it possible for all who believe to overcome sin and death and to reign with Him in eternal life. The concept of “no death, no resurrection” within Christianity, is a central theme that emphasizes the inseparable link between death and resurrection. It argues that without the reality of death, there cannot be a concept of resurrection or new life. In other words, the phrase “no death, no resurrection” points to the Lord’s death as the only sacrifice that atones for the sins of humanity, and His resurrection is as the victory over death and a promise of everlasting life. The idea that there is no resurrection without death highlights the fact that the resurrection is a response to the reality of death. This concept of “no death, no resurrection” emphasizes the need for a sacrifice (death) to bring about redemption (resurrection). Though we wait for the full glorification of new creation, the Scriptures also teach that the power that raised Jesus from the dead is already working within us (Ephesians 1:19-20). The resurrection, you see, not only assures of God’s forgiveness and comforts us in suffering as we anticipate the final reversal of death, disease, and decay; it also motivates and empowers us to push back at the tide of suffering and evil in the present world, through word and deed, in mercy and justice, all in the name of Jesus. Be encouraged!