We Can Know the Truth about the Resurrection (John 8:31-32)
Introduction:
1. In these verses Jesus stated that His disciples can know something very special -- "the truth." 2. Jesus also revealed the key to knowing the truth -- "continuing in His word." 3. Knowing the truth is essential because it provides a special blessing -- it makes us free. 4. In our lesson we are searching the Lord's word so "we can know the truth about the resurrection." 5. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. THE TEACHING IN THE LORD'S WORD ABOUT THE RESURRECTION HAS BEEN REJECTED AND ALTERED
A. For example, some have denied that the resurrection will occur. 1. According to Acts 23:8, the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection. 2. We learn from 1 Corinthians 15:12 that some in the Corinthian church did not believe in the resurrection. B. Also, two false teachers, Hymenaeus and Philetus, said that the resurrection has already occurred (2 Timothy 2:16-18). C. When Jesus answered a question the Sadducees asked, He stated that such beliefs were held by those who do not know the Scriptures (Matthew 22:29). D. An objective careful study of the Lord's word will clear up any confusion. II. THE LORD'S WORD TEACHES THAT GOD WILL RAISE THE DEAD
A. Jesus taught that the dead will be raised (John 5:21, 25). B. The epistles teach that God will raise the dead. 1. Romans 8:11 2. 1 Corinthians 6:14 3. 2 Corinthians 4:14 III. THE LORD'S WORD TEACHES WHEN THE RESURRECTION WILL OCCUR
A. Jesus stated that the resurrection will occur "at the last day" (John 6:39-40, 44, 54). B. The resurrection will precede the judgment that will occur when Jesus returns. 1. John 5:28-29 2. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 3. Revelation 20:12-13 IV. THE LORD'S WORD REVEALS ADDITIONAL DETAILS RELATING TO THE RESURRECTION
A. The resurrection will include "the just and the unjust" (Acts 24:14-15). B. From 1 Corinthians 15 we learn that: 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, 3-8) 3. the resurrected body will be a spiritual body which pleases God (vs.35-44; also Philippians 3:20-21). Conclusion:
1. The Lord's word reveals the truth -- the Lord will return one day, the resurrection will occur, and the Lord will judge everyone. 2. We learn from 1 Corinthians 15:58 that looking forward to the resurrection should affect the way we live.
