But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31 NIV
Luke tells us in the beginning of his gospel, “Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, and I too decided to write an orderly account … so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught” (Luke 1). Three others besides his account, all from eyewitnesses, make up the four gospels: Matthew, Mark (dictated by Peter), and John.
The gospels together devote a large portion of their narrative to Jesus' last week, approximately 40%. Why? Because this week, known as Passion Week, is where Jesus enters Jerusalem, is betrayed, tried, crucified, and is resurrected, just as He said He would be. This week marks the climax of His earthly ministry and the central events upon which our faith is founded: His death and resurrection. We are not “people of the Book.” Yes, we love and respect the Bible, but the Bible would only be the Old Testament, there would be nothing beyond that, if it were not for the death and resurrection of our King, Jesus Christ. These days and events are the pivotal moments in God's plan for humanity's reconciliation. We are Resurrection people.
These are not just historical facts and accounts, though they ARE that. They really happened, and as John says, they are written so we can believe. We can confidently put our faith in this King’s purpose and power.
But it’s more than that. It’s more than a historical event. It is a personal promise and proof. We are incomprehensibly loved and valued by this God. John goes further than telling us that the gospels were written so that we could confidently believe in the accuracy of the accounts. There is a bigger purpose: “so that by believing you may have life in his name.” We are so personally loved, so valued by this amazing God. What Jesus did in this week proves His love and proves we can have life forever in His name. It’s for everyone, but oh, so personal.
“I once was blinded, but now I see it,
I heard about the power, and now I believe it!
Rise up, Rise up! All at once I came alive!
This beating heart, these open eyes,
You called my name, You called my name!
The grave let go! The darkness should have known
You're still rolling stones!” – Lauren Daigle
- Is this your testimony? Your King is personal, and He loves you. Easter proves it.