And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain
and your faith is in vain.
I Corinthians 15:14 (ESV)
Dear HLPC family,
Whenever we consider the resurrection at Easter this is perhaps the first verse that comes to my mind. I’m reminded that the resurrection is crucial to Christianity. No empty tomb, and there is no hope, there is no gospel.
In the 19th century, attempts were made by theologically liberal theologians to argue that it really didn’t matter if the resurrection actually happened but only that the message of Christianity brought meaning and peace to us. This was rooted in a worldview that didn’t want to accept the reality of miracles as taught in Scripture. The Apostle Paul says quite the opposite. Without the literal, physical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, our faith is useless. Jesus’ work was all for nothing and the promise He made to His disciples was a lie. Praise God that such is not the case!
Tonight there will be no MidWeek Bible study so that you will be encouraged to come to our special Maundy Thursday service at 7pm. This service will be a great time of reflection on the suffering and the sacrificial, substitutionary death of Jesus for sinners. We will be partaking of the Lord’s Supper as was done that same night with Jesus and the disciples.
Then, on Easter Sunday at 10:30AM, join us outdoors on the front lawn for worship. Come early at 9:30AM for coffee, donuts, and an egg hunt for kids ages 12 and under. Bring friends, family, and a chair for a celebration of the resurrection! Please continue to pray for great worship and weather–the forecast certainly looks very promising! It’s my prayer that some who have not felt comfortable returning to worship to date will do so this Sunday as meeting outdoors provides us with a very safe opportunity for gathering.
Your Pastor,
Paul