In Nashville, Tennessee stands a full size replica of the Parthenon. Although this structure contains many noteworthy features, one of its most impressive characteristics to me are the two enormous bronze doors which stand about 30 feet high each weighing seven and a half tons. These mammoth doors swing on only one huge hinge which provides them with a system of counter balances making it possible for even a child to swing those behemoths. Each of those doors literally depends upon its one huge hinge. Without that hinge, the door would be transformed into a useless mass of metal. But because of that hinge that enormous lifeless mass of metal becomes a magnificent door.
In some ways, Christianity is like those immense doors. The validity of Christianity is made possible by one huge hinge which we call Jesus' resurrection. Without Jesus' resurrection being anchored in history, Christianity degrades into merely a curious movement of history, a social do-gooders club, and a philosophical Band-Aid for living short and meaningless lives.
On the other hand, with the reality of the resurrection ripping into human history, life and substance is poured into Christianity. Through the resurrection Jesus is proclaimed to be the SON OF GOD with power - not merely another victim of the ancient past ...Jesus's death on that ignoble Roman torture device is transformed into a sacrificial gift making possible our friendship with God ...the idea of eternal life is no longer a wishful fairy tale but a living hope and an expectation ...our lives become infused with meaning and purpose as we seek to live for God's glory ...Jesus' statements such as "there is no way to the Father but by me" are not originating from just some religious guru but rather represent the shocking truth ...worshipping God is no longer an optional "opium for the masses" but rather it should permeate one's entire existence ...suddenly there is reason for living and dying with conviction. Suddenly, Jesus confronts you and me asking, "what are you going to do with me?"
Take a moment to read 1 Corinthians 15:14-20. Let's serve the LORD with fear and gladness of heart.
Barry Newton, Copyright © 1998
Other Articles of Interest Might Include:
Jesus is RisenWhat It Means To Be "Raised With Christ"
Mental Backbones (The Resurrection)
The Honest Hourglass (Implications of Jesus' resurrection for meaning in our life)