When I was a young pastor, another pastor more experienced than I told me that one of the most concise representations of our faith is found in chapter 15 of 1 Corinthians. The importance of Christ’s resurrection is mentioned at great length in these verses.

Paul wrote, “For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless” (I Corinthains 15: 13-14). 

Paul went on to say, “But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies” (vs. 51-53).

“Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled (vs. 54-55):

“Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?” 

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is a transforming power. It’s not just something we study or preach. It is a reality we live out today, not only after we die. Most importantly, it has the power to remove our fear of death.

Learning to live without fear of death is a priceless gift. To truly live this way, we can freely receive God’s love in exchange for our fear, including our fear of dying. It will change how we approach death, and it will change how we choose to live.

When I remembered Jesus’ death and resurrection in Communion today (I do this every day), resurrection power was released—a power that is ongoing and eternal.