DEATH STEPPED ASIDE

  Introduction:

        A.  Comments surrounding an excerpt from The Jungle Book by Rudyard                         Kipling:  "The most feared thing in the jungle is ___________.  It steps                          aside for no one."

             1.  We know this to be true.  Hebrews 9:27.

        B.  Death is the destiny of every human being, but death stepped aside for one                 (Jesus). Lk. 24:1-8 and Romans 6:9.

  I.   The Importance of the resurrection of Jesus.

        A.  The truth that distinguishes Jesus from all other religious leaders of the                        world is that death stepped aside for Him, but not for them.

         B.  The resurrection is the most important and significant aspect of our faith.                     1 Corinthians 15:12-20.

                1.  What would that mean if Christ weren't resurrected?

                    a.  Our preaching is empty (vain).  VV 14-15

                    b.  Our faith is empty (vain) V 14

                    c.  There is no forgiveness of sins.  V17

                    d.  There is no  life after death. V18

                    e.  There is no meaning to life.  V19

                2.  But Jesus was resurrected.  V20

                     a.  We can preach or teach the truth.

                     b.  We can  espouse or acept Christianity.

                     c.  We are forgiven of all sins.

                     d.  We can enjoy or have life after death.

                     e.   We can have assurance or meaning   in this life.  ALL BECAUSE                                      DEATH STEPPED ASIDE FOR JESUS AS A COWARD STEPS                                          ASIDE FOR THE BRAVE.

            C.  Various proofs for resurrection, but let's believe it because the Bible-                            God's infallible word- tells us so.  1 Corinthians 15:1-4

    Conclusion:

            A.  Attention to hymns: p 155, p 154

            B.   Romans 6:3-9, 1 Corinthians 15:54-58