Paul explains the significance of the resurrection by exposing the fact that no resurrection means no hope. Then, Paul shows how the fact that Christ gives hope for the future and meaning for the present. The death nail hammered into death itself provides us with assurance in suffering and reorients our priorities in life.

Jesus is crucified during the Passover feast. The Passover reminded the people of God's deliverance from Egypt. The second last plague was the plague of darkness. Ominously, darkness descends on Jesus at the cross. Yet, instead of God bringing judgement on the world, He brings it on His Son. The temple curtain was torn in two, symbolising that the way was open for people to be reconciled to God.

In this passage, Jesus explains that all of our actions spring from our hearts. We are in desperate need of a Saviour who can rescue us from our sin and give us hearts that desire to please God.

Facing death by faith