I AM the Resurrection and the Life

9/3/2024

"Jesus said to her, 'I AM the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live.'" John 11:25

In the Gospel of John, Jesus makes a profound declaration that has provided hope and comfort to countless believers: "I AM the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25). This statement, made in the context of the death of Lazarus, unveils the power and promise of Jesus over life and death. Let’s dive into the narrative and significance of this bold proclamation today.

The account begins with the illness of Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha. Despite their urgent plea for Jesus to come and heal Lazarus, Jesus intentionally delays His visit. When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has been dead for four days. Martha meets Him with a mixture of sorrow and faith, expressing her grief but also her belief in Jesus' ability to perform miracles.

"Now when Jesus came, He found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days. Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles off, and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them concerning their brother. So when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met Him, but Mary remained seated in the house. Martha said to Jesus, 'Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask from God, God will give You.' Jesus said to her, 'Your brother will rise again.' Martha said to Him, 'I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.' Jesus said to her, 'I AM the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?' She said to Him, 'Yes, Lord; I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.' John 11:17-27

In John 11:17-27, Jesus engages in a poignant conversation with Martha. She tells Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask from God, God will give You" (John 11:21-22). Jesus responds by assuring her that Lazarus will rise again. Martha acknowledges this, referring to the resurrection on the last day. It is in this moment that Jesus makes His profound declaration: "Jesus said to her, 'I AM the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'" (John 11:25-26).

The Significance of "I AM the Resurrection and the Life"

Promise of Eternal Life: Jesus’ declaration that He is the resurrection and the life assures believers that physical death is not the end. Those who believe in Him will experience eternal life. This promise provides profound comfort and hope, especially in the face of loss and death.
Present and Future Reality: Jesus' words highlight that eternal life is not only a future promise but a present reality for those who believe in Him. He brings life and vitality to our spiritual existence now, transforming our present lives with His presence and power.
Victory Over Death: By identifying Himself as the resurrection, Jesus asserts His authority over death. His resurrection from the dead validates this claim, demonstrating His power to conquer the grave and bring new life.
Personal Relationship: Jesus' question to Martha, "Do you believe this?" calls for a personal response. Faith in Jesus as the resurrection and the life is not merely intellectual, but a personal trust and relationship with Him.

Martha’s response to Jesus' question is a powerful affirmation of faith: "Yes, Lord; I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world" (John 11:27). Her declaration acknowledges Jesus' divine identity and messianic mission. Despite her grief, she places her trust in Jesus, exemplifying the faith He calls for from all His followers.

How Can We Apply This Today?

Hope in Grief: In times of loss and sorrow, Jesus’ promise of resurrection and life provides hope and comfort. We can rest in the assurance that death is not the end and that eternal life awaits those who believe in Him.
Living with Purpose: Knowing that eternal life begins now with faith in Jesus encourages us to live with purpose and intentionality. We are called to embody the life of Christ, reflecting His love, grace, and truth in our daily lives.
Faith in Action: Like Martha, we are invited to affirm our faith in Jesus. This belief should shape our actions, attitudes, and interactions with others, demonstrating the transformative power of His life within us.
Sharing the Hope: As believers, we are tasked with sharing the hope of the resurrection with others. In a world often marked by despair and hopelessness, the message of Jesus as the resurrection and the life is a beacon of hope and a call to faith.

Jesus’ declaration, "I AM the resurrection and the life," is a cornerstone of Christian faith. It reassures us of His power over death and His promise of eternal life. As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life, let us hold firmly to this truth, finding comfort and hope in the life-giving presence of our Savior. Let us, like Martha, declare our faith in Jesus and live out the reality of His resurrection power each day.

How does Jesus' declaration as "the resurrection and the life" challenge your understanding of life, death, and faith in your daily walk with Him?

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