The Story of Jesus Final Events "The Resurrection" (Lesson 30)
Introduction:
1. In 2 Peter 3:18 we are instructed to grow in the knowledge of Christ. 2. Jesus indicated in John 5:39 that this growth is accomplished through careful Bible study. 3. As Jesus traveled throughout Palestine teaching and preaching, He addressed many important subjects, including "final events." 4. In dealing with "final events," Jesus talked about His return. a. He promised His apostles that He will return (John 14:3). b. He said that no one knows when He will return (Matthew 24:36, 42, 44; 25:13). c. We learn from 2 Peter 3:10 that everything will be burned up when Jesus returns. 5. In dealing with "final events," Jesus also talked about "the resurrection," the subject of this lesson. 6. Unfortunately, many people have had misunderstandings about the resurrection. a. Some people have denied that the resurrection will occur. 1) The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection (Acts 23:8). 2) According to 1 Corinthians 15:12, some members of the church in Corinth did not believe in the resurrection. b. Others have said that the resurrection has already occurred (2 Timothy 2:16-18). 7. Such confusion can be cleared up by a thorough study of the Scriptures.
Discussion:
I. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH THAT GOD WILL RAISE THE DEAD
A. Jesus taught that the dead will be raised (John 5:21, 25). B. The New Testament epistles also teach that God will raise the dead. 1. Romans 8:11 2. 1 Corinthians 6:14 3. 2 Corinthians 4:14
II. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH WHEN THE RESURRECTION WILL OCCUR
A. Jesus taught that the dead will be raised "at the last day" (John 6:39-40, 44, 54). B. Additional passages teach that the resurrection will occur when Jesus returns. 1. John 5:28-29 2. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18
III. THE SCRIPTURES SUPPLY ADDITIONAL DETAILS RELATING TO THE RESURRECTION
A. The resurrection will include "the just and the unjust" (Acts 24:14-15). B. According to 1 Corinthians 15,: 1. there is no reason for hope if there is no resurrection (vs.13-19) 2. our hope of being raised from the dead is based on the Lord's resurrection (vs.20-23) 3. the resurrected body will be a spiritual body that pleases God (vs.35-44; also Philippians 3:20-21). C. Looking forward to the resurrection should affect the way we live (Philippians 3:8-16).
