Have you experienced joy, success, and progress in recent days? Or have you faced disappointments, failures, hurts, and partings? Setbacks in life can be very painful. If you have experienced deep hurts or great disappointments, you will shudder at the thought of having more of the same. The Bible tells of a group of people whose lives were shattered. They recovered, and lived victoriously. This can be your experience as well…
The background
The history of Israel was one of failures, moral decay, and oppression. The periods of glory were never sustained. Then, gloom engulfed the nation again! The Romans colonised it. Many Jews sold themselves to serving the oppressors. The religious leaders were unashamedly hypocritical, and exploiting the weak. No prophet had spoken for four hundred years. A godly remnant longed for better days ahead.Then, a light began to shine in the darkness. A man who claimed Himself to be the Son of God began to teach with authority. He performed miracles, called sinners to repentance, and promised eternal life to those who would believe in Him. That man was Jesus Christ. The godly remnant put their trust in Him, learned from Him, and followed Him. Amazingly, He began to tell them of His forthcoming death, and resurrection.
The blow
Then came the blow! Jesus Christ was betrayed, arrested, shamefully treated, and finally crucified naked, next to two criminals. The disciples were scattered, and confused. Their hope and expectations were shattered. One of them asked for the Master’s body, and buried Him in an unused tomb, which was then sealed and guarded by Roman soldiers.
On the third day, the tomb was found to be empty! Reports began to filter in that their Master was risen and had been seen. He soon appeared before the gathered disciples, talked to them, and ate with them. All in, over 500 followers saw Him at various times in forty days. He was taken up visibly into heaven, and promised that He would return to judge the world.
The transformation
It soon became clear to the disciples that their Master’s words had been fulfilled. He had been put to death, and was risen. His death was necessary for, without it, there would have been no salvation for sinners. He laid down His life in order that those who trust in Him might have eternal life. His blood was shed for the cleansing of their sins. His death was the full payment for the sins they have committed against God. He died as the substitute for His people!
This understanding of the person and work of Jesus Christ transformed the disciples. Although Jesus Christ did not remain with them on earth, and severe persecution against the Christians continued, they were no more dejected and defeated. The Spirit of God worked mightily in them, so that they boldly preached the message of salvation to everyone.
That message continues to be proclaimed today. Anyone who truly turns from sin to trust in Jesus Christ will be given eternal life. “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it abundantly” (John 10:10). The trials and sorrows of this world will appear as nothing compared to reconciliation with God. The certainty of eternal blessedness far outweighs the setbacks of life.
Let the days ahead be spiritually prosperous to you. Let the rest of your life be one of peace with God, and abundance of blessing in Jesus Christ. Come to Him today!
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