Freedom – The Resurrection

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Heb 2:14-18 (KJV)

1. The freedom of, a slave is determined by the length of his chains!

2. I have an earnest conviction that every person would have to be imprisoned w/o proof for at least (4) months, often denied basic needs, preferably sick for at least (2) months in order to learn true value of freedom.

3. In order to possess freedom we must first reject a state of enslavement!

4. But what are we enslaved to? (Death, Devil and Doubt)

Only the resurrection of Christ can truly free us from these chains. (Benefits of the Resurrection)

1 - The Resurrection Delivers Us From Death.

1. Death is universal and “fearful”.

2. Two kinds of death (1) Physical – just a comma in life. (2) Spiritual – Separation from God!

3. Adam and Christ were both representative of the human family.

But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 1 Cor 15:20 (KJV)

4. If the “wages of sin is death” then don’t you think you ought to quit before payday?

5. I have lost a lot of people for eternity! I am losing some people right now!

6. Not necessary because of the Resurrection! (Illus) Some remained slaves after the Civil War!

2 - The Resurrection Delivers Us From the Devil.

1. A malignant military ruler who has enslaved our race and commits atrocities beyond comprehension.

2. “Murderer & Liar” (Jn 8:44) He creates brokenness in every captives life

3. (Illus) Story of the “Empty Rusted Birdcage”

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 1 Pet 5:8 (KJV)

4. You are one of those birds this morning!!!

… For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 1 Jn 3:8 (KJV)

3 - The Resurrection Delivers Us From Doubt.

1. Doubt and unbelief aren’t the same thing.

2. Think of doubt as an invitation to think!

3. Twin fools: (1) Doubts everything (2) Doubts nothing.

4. If the Resurrection is a hoax Christianity isn’t real. If R. is a fact it is most important reality!

Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 1 Cor 15:12-19 (KJV)

5. We need an immovable anchor for our souls in this life and in the next one!

6. * RECOMMEND “Resurrection Evidence” Easter 2001 CD of cassette tape.

Visualize: A funeral of grieving caterpillars surrounding a cocoon. Can’t see the future (Metamorphosis)

Actions:

1. Recognize any area of enslavement. (Death, Devil or Doubt)

2. Place your confidence in the message of Eternal Life through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.

3. Accept the freedom Christ’s resurrection makes available to you right now!

4. Use your freedom or lose it!!!

Copyright © 2006  Dr. C. David White

1851 River Bluff Rd. N. Jacksonville, FL 32211 openarms@openarmsbaptist.com


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