The Resurrection and the Kingdom
Inseparable Realities
April 14: The Promise of Resurrection
Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:20-28
Devotional: As we reflect on Christ's resurrection, we're reminded that it's not just a historical event, but a promise for all believers. Paul calls Jesus the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep, assuring us that our own resurrection is guaranteed through Him. Today, meditate on this hope. How does the promise of resurrection change your perspective on life's challenges? In what ways can you live today in light of this eternal promise?
April 15: From Adam's Death to Christ's Life
Reading: Romans 5:12-21
Devotional: Today's passage contrasts the consequences of Adam's sin with the gift of Christ's righteousness. We were born into Adam's reality of sin and death, but through faith, we're reborn into Christ's reality of grace and eternal life. Reflect on this transformation. How has Christ's gift of life changed you? In what areas of your life do you still need to fully embrace this new reality? Ask God to help you live fully in the freedom and power of Christ's life.
April 16: The Present and Future Kingdom
Reading: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
Devotional: Jesus often spoke about the Kingdom of God using parables. These stories reveal that God's Kingdom is both present now and yet to come in fullness. As believers, we're citizens of this Kingdom, called to live under Christ's reign in our hearts and lives today. How can you better reflect God's Kingdom values in your daily life? What aspects of the future Kingdom do you most long to see realized? Pray for God's Kingdom to come more fully in and through you.
April 17: Christ's Victorious Reign
Reading: Colossians 2:13-15, Revelation 19:11-16
Devotional: These passages paint a powerful picture of Christ's victory over evil and His ultimate reign. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has already triumphed over the powers of darkness. One day, He will return to establish His rule over all creation. How does this assurance of Christ's victory encourage you in your current struggles? In what ways can you participate in Christ's reign by standing against evil and injustice in your sphere of influence?
April 18: The Renewal of All Things
Reading: Revelation 21:1-7
Devotional: Our journey concludes with the glorious vision of God making all things new. This promise of renewal extends beyond individual salvation to the restoration of all creation. Imagine a world without tears, death, or pain—where God dwells fully with His people. How does this hope shape your priorities and actions today? In what ways can you be an agent of renewal in your relationships and community, pointing others to the ultimate hope we have in Christ? Spend time praising God for this beautiful future and ask Him to use you in His ongoing work of renewal.
Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:20-28
Devotional: As we reflect on Christ's resurrection, we're reminded that it's not just a historical event, but a promise for all believers. Paul calls Jesus the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep, assuring us that our own resurrection is guaranteed through Him. Today, meditate on this hope. How does the promise of resurrection change your perspective on life's challenges? In what ways can you live today in light of this eternal promise?
April 15: From Adam's Death to Christ's Life
Reading: Romans 5:12-21
Devotional: Today's passage contrasts the consequences of Adam's sin with the gift of Christ's righteousness. We were born into Adam's reality of sin and death, but through faith, we're reborn into Christ's reality of grace and eternal life. Reflect on this transformation. How has Christ's gift of life changed you? In what areas of your life do you still need to fully embrace this new reality? Ask God to help you live fully in the freedom and power of Christ's life.
April 16: The Present and Future Kingdom
Reading: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
Devotional: Jesus often spoke about the Kingdom of God using parables. These stories reveal that God's Kingdom is both present now and yet to come in fullness. As believers, we're citizens of this Kingdom, called to live under Christ's reign in our hearts and lives today. How can you better reflect God's Kingdom values in your daily life? What aspects of the future Kingdom do you most long to see realized? Pray for God's Kingdom to come more fully in and through you.
April 17: Christ's Victorious Reign
Reading: Colossians 2:13-15, Revelation 19:11-16
Devotional: These passages paint a powerful picture of Christ's victory over evil and His ultimate reign. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has already triumphed over the powers of darkness. One day, He will return to establish His rule over all creation. How does this assurance of Christ's victory encourage you in your current struggles? In what ways can you participate in Christ's reign by standing against evil and injustice in your sphere of influence?
April 18: The Renewal of All Things
Reading: Revelation 21:1-7
Devotional: Our journey concludes with the glorious vision of God making all things new. This promise of renewal extends beyond individual salvation to the restoration of all creation. Imagine a world without tears, death, or pain—where God dwells fully with His people. How does this hope shape your priorities and actions today? In what ways can you be an agent of renewal in your relationships and community, pointing others to the ultimate hope we have in Christ? Spend time praising God for this beautiful future and ask Him to use you in His ongoing work of renewal.