March 25, 2024

"He is risen"
"He is risen, indeed"

We say these words quite frequently.  Saying "He is risen" also implies that He died.    We do not cry out a celebratory "He has died" though because death did not have the final word.  Yet, we rightly celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus alongside of the cross and His death.    

In John 19:30, Jesus cried out, as He died, "tetelestai!"   (It is finished).   This word was not a derogatory remark on those who placed Him on the cross.  It was not a groan of pain.  It was not a remark of hatred.  It was a shout of triumph.   It was a statement that the work had been completed.  The victory had been won.   "It is finished!!!"    At the cross, the work of salvation was completed.   Our wrath was poured out on Jesus and He took it all, every last drop.   As the cup was emptied, it was finished... the wrath is gone.  

Jesus died and was buried.  Being placed into a grave is one of the punishments of sin.  Yet, because sin was defeated, Jesus could not be contained by death, by that grave.  He rose in triumphal proof that it is finished.  He not only claimed victory, He was the victor.  

So, when we say "He is risen" it is because He first died.  And, in that death, He paid the punishment for our sin so that we too can claim a resurrection as well.  He is risen.  He is risen, indeed.  We, too, will be risen.  We will be risen, indeed.   All praise to Jesus!