New Beginning (Palm Sunday)

1 Corinthians 15:1–11

Looking at Genesis 3 and 1 Corinthians 15, we can see how human beings often feel ashamed because of our wish to be in charge of our own lives. This can lead to feelings of anger, insecurity, and even result in death. But 1 Corinthians 15 gives us hope, introducing Jesus as the one who overcomes death and brings new life. Understanding and accepting the core teachings of Christianity, including truth, is key to experiencing this new, resurrected life.

1. This truth is the good news

The good news, or “gospel,” is like a victorious battle fought for us, setting us free. It’s not about being perfectly good or strictly following Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. It’s about the powerful changes brought about by Jesus Christ’s gospel. If we truly understand this, it’s the most exciting news we can get. Accepting this truth leads to a life full of new beginnings, while ignoring or forgetting it shows a lack of real belief.

2. This truth sets us free when we embrace it

The gospel is not just a principle that sets us free; it’s a fact that leads to real freedom. Today, people often think of freedom as having unlimited choices, but true freedom is about living in sync with our natural selves. Like a fish is free in water and a coffeepot is free when brewing coffee, we are truly free when we serve and know God, live our purpose, and follow the gospel truth while resisting desires that trap us.

3. This truth brings life through Christ’s actions, not his words

The heart of the gospel is not about following a set of rules, but about what Christ did through his death and resurrection. Christianity is unique in stressing this idea of substitution, where God himself becomes our rescue. Understanding this creates feelings of warmth, humility, and moral guidance, helping us face failure, death, and difficulties with love and thankfulness.