Resurrection = Preperation

Scripture: There will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust. So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man. Acts 24:15-16

Observation: Paul is giving a defense of his faith before Felix. And to counter the claims he is in a cult, he affirms his beliefs in the true God. One thing he confesses is that he believes in the resurrection…and that this belief causes him to guard how he lives in this life. Knowing he will one day face Christ, Paul lives to have a clear conscience in this life.

Application: This week I preached on Heaven. One person came up to me afterwards and admitted he was a little apprehensive about Heaven, as he expected Christ to call him to accounts. My initial response was to say something soothing, like, “Oh, but don’t worry about that, Heaven will just be joy. Jesus will not have anything negative to say to you—it will only be commendation.” This response comes out a lifetime of well meaning, yet biblically uninformed people spouting stuff like this. The judgment and evaluation aspect of Heaven is so downplayed. Yet the bible clearly outlines that meeting Christ in heaven should motivate our living on earth. Paul was motivated by the prospect of one day reviewing his earthly life with Christ in Heaven. We should be too.

Prayer: God, help me proclaim truth and prepare people for the resurrection. We have so many beliefs that are rooted in Christian folklore and not founded in Your word. Even this morning as I tackle my sermon prep, give me courage to “go there” in scripture.