“And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:14). Paul makes a dramatic statement here: the Resurrection is the basis of faith. Jesus came to the earth proclaiming salvation, and calling people to live better lives. Jesus had many followers who loved Him, He pissed a lot of people off too. Jesus spoke in truth and love, deeply piercing matters concerning the heart. Jesus required that His followers give up EVERYTHING to follow Him. After three years of ministry, He died. His followers must have been greatly disturbed. This man who they thought would be their redeemer died! The One who was suppose to bring His to kingdom to earth, be the Jews’ Messiah, and bring them a new life, was unable to keep His own life. But three days later, He rose! His follower’s religion, their lifestyle, was redeemed and validated. If Jesus did not rise from the dead, all He did and said was in vain. Without the Resurrection we have no faith. With the Resurrection we have reason to believe and follow what Jesus did and said.
