Some call it Easter. Others refer to this holy day as Resurrection Sunday. Either way you prefer, the annual day on the Christian calendar on which we specifically celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon us.

Hallelujah! Christ is risen. He is risen indeed!

As we stop and celebrate, I will underscore four important truths connected to the glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ.

///He is alive!

In my philosophy class at a large secular university in Oklahoma, the professor boasted that Jesus and Elvis are really just the same. He said both drew large followings in life, and, after each died, people claimed to see them alive. One quick-thinking student said, “But professor, I have seen Elvis’ grave at Graceland and it was occupied. Meanwhile, Jesus’ tomb is empty!” The professor—like every other skeptic before or after him—had no answer. Easter Sunday means that the tomb is empty. Jesus is alive forevermore!

///We will rise, too

In one of his epistles, the Apostle Paul spoke of the unparalleled implications of the resurrection. He said, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man” (1 Cor. 15:20-21).

Here we are taught that, even though people experience death, every born-again Christian will ultimately experience resurrection life because of Jesus. To the dying cancer patient, this is unmatched Good News. To the parent grieving the death of their child, this is unmatched Good News. To the persecuted and poor, whose lot in life is all challenges, this is Good News. Like Jesus, we ourselves will experience resurrection life.

///Now and then

While we are quick to recognize the miraculous nature of the Son of God rising from the dead, we sometimes move too quickly over the fact that His resurrection life has an immediate and future-day effect, to quote theologians.

What we mean is that Christians begin to experience new life and resurrection life in Christ in the here and now. We also know that, in the final days, every believer will experience resurrection life.

Jesus said it this way. “Do not be amazed at this, because a time is coming when all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come out—those who have done good things, to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked things, to the resurrection of judgment” (John 5:28-29).

Easter means that we already enjoy resurrection life and that we will one day experience it in all its fullness.

///Tell the Good News!

People love talking about sports and politics. They love talking about hobbies and friends. These points of interest come and go. But the truth surrounding Easter is always relevant. This week, spend time talking in your circles—in person and online—about Jesus’ death and resurrection. Don’t just stop there. Invite someone to church, have a Gospel conversation or share with a child or young person what Easter truly means.

Someone living before you was faithful to tell this Good News. Don’t bury the treasure of the Gospel; share it with everyone you can.

This Easter, let’s not miss an opportunity to worship the Lord in fresh ways. Let’s not miss an opportunity to share God’s love with our neighbors in need.

Happy Easter/Resurrection Sunday! He is risen indeed!