The sermon titled "Arise" by Joe Galuszek focuses on the theme of spiritual resurrection as depicted in Luke 8:49-55, where Jesus raises a girl from the dead. The preacher emphasizes the divine authority of Jesus' words, asserting that while the world often dismisses spiritual truths, Christ's command to "arise" signifies both physical and spiritual awakening. Galuszek argues that spiritual discernment is lost on unbelievers, who fail to grasp the fullness of God’s power and mercy as articulated in Scripture. He supports his claims by referencing Old Testament texts, such as Ezekiel 37 and 16:6, which illuminate God's sovereignty in granting life and understanding to His chosen people. The significance of this message lies in its call for believers to recognize the intimate and personal nature of Christ's calling, underscoring the Reformed belief in God's unilateral action in salvation.
Key Quotes
“Salvation is free to you, and it's free to me, and it's free to all of God's people, but it wasn't free. Jesus Christ had to pay the price.”
“The world will weep and wail the physically dead. But there's no weeping for the spiritual death.”
“When he says arise, you're gonna arise. Oh my. Every time he says arise, someone arises.”
“When the Lord Jesus Christ does that to one of his people, they live. They arise.”
The Bible teaches that spiritual death is a state of separation from God, which the world does not comprehend.
Spiritual death refers to the condition of being dead in trespasses and sins, as described in Ephesians 2:1. This death results in a complete lack of awareness to the things of God, and as Jesus pointed out in Luke 8:52, the world often cannot see beyond the physical realm. They may grieve over physical death but overlook the far more serious issue of spiritual death. The spiritual condition leads to a total lack of understanding of God’s power and grace, as exemplified by the laughter and scorn from the crowd when Jesus declared the girl was not dead but merely asleep.
Ephesians 2:1, Luke 8:52
Jesus demonstrated His power to resurrect through His miracles and affirmations of faith.
Jesus' authority over life and death is clear in the accounts of His ministry, particularly in instances such as the resurrection of Jairus' daughter in Luke 8:54-55. When Jesus commanded the girl to arise, her spirit returned to her immediately. This act showcased His divine power and purpose to give life. The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the ultimate demonstration of His authority, where He effectively conquered death itself, thus validating all His claims and His capacity to resurrect both physically and spiritually.
Luke 8:54-55, John 17:2
The resurrection affirms Christ's victory over sin and death, providing hope for believers.
The resurrection of Jesus is foundational to the Christian faith, as it signifies victory over sin and death. As Paul articulated in 1 Corinthians 15:55, the resurrection provides the assurance that believers will also be raised to eternal life. This event confirms that Christ has the power to grant eternal life to those whom the Father has given Him. The believer’s hope rests in the promise of resurrection; it assures us that death is not the end but a transition into everlasting life with God. Therefore, the resurrection is not just a historical event but a transformative aspect of our faith that defines our hope and identity in Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:55, John 17:2
'Arise' signifies both physical and spiritual resurrection, illustrating Jesus' authority over life.
'Arise' is a powerful command that exemplifies Jesus' authority to bring life where there is none. In Luke 8:54, He called the deceased girl to life, which is synonymous with His ability to awaken those who are spiritually dead. Ephesians 5:14 echoes this sentiment, urging the spiritually slumbering to awake and arise from the dead, indicating that His call is both personal and transformative. When Christ calls, it is not just an invitation; it is an effectual command that brings about change and new life in those who respond. His word has the power to overcome all things, revealing His divine will and purpose for His people.
Luke 8:54, Ephesians 5:14
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