6/1/2025: Seventh Sunday of Easter

BECAUSE HE LIVES

It is easy to become so engrossed in the details of historical events—who, when, where—that we miss their significance. For example, consider World War II. There are many compelling stories. Lots of dates and data to remember. However, for a moment, set all that aside, and just imagine the Allies had lost. How would the world be different today? What would life be like for those of Jewish heritage? Would freedom exist in Europe? Would we be speaking German? With historical events, you miss out if you focus only on the details: who, when, where. You also need to focus on what that historical event means. The Allies won. That means something!

In this season of Easter, it is good that we review the details: who, when, where. That reminds us that the resurrection of Christ is not a fairy tale or fable. It is a historical event… THE historical event. It is our privilege and pleasure to use the fifty days of Easter to discuss this fact: because he lives, not only is our eternity secure, but we have abundant resources to face the present.

CHRIST CREATES UNITY WITHIN DIVERSITY        

After he rose, when Jesus’ followers gathered together, they comprised a group that was not very diverse. They all belonged to the same ethnic group, grew up in the same culture, spoke the same language, and followed the same customs. That would change drastically on Pentecost, when the gospel would be proclaimed in many languages to people from “every nation under heaven” (Acts 1:5).

This diversity has always been part of Christ’s plan. Rather than eliminating differences among the Church’s members, the Church’s unity is built on truths that transcend those differences. The Church truly is a communion of saints. Differences in our world often lead to division. That is not to be the case in the Church. Because he lives, Christ creates unity within diversity. And when the world sees the unity in diversity that characterizes Christ’s Church, it will recognize something unique and special about Christians.

God bless your worship.

Pastor Mueller preaches on Acts 16:6-10

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