Genesis and the Cross

Note: This article presents a young-earth, Christian, Creationist perspective.

The Significance of Jesus' Suffering and Death

As Christians, we find hope and meaning in the suffering, shame, and death of Jesus Christ. Our deep desire for justice and the longing for our wrongs to be made right are fulfilled through the cross of Christ. In Jesus' Passion, we discover that behind the universe is a God who values every person and cares about justice.

To those who hold to an evolutionary worldview, the death of Christ may seem illogical. Richard Dawkins, a prominent atheist, views the universe as having "no design, no purpose, no evil and no good, nothing but blind pitiless indifference." However, this perspective arises from the belief that we are merely products of blind, materialistic processes. If there is no God, then Dawkins' viewpoint is accurate - there is no higher purpose or care for humanity. But the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ challenge this desolate outlook. They provide evidence that God exists and deeply cares about our lives and what happens in this world.

The Resurrection as Evidence for God's Existence

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as a pivotal event in human history. It provides compelling evidence for the existence of God. Antony Flew, a renowned atheist philosopher, surprised many when he announced his acceptance of the existence of God. While he still grappled with the idea of Jesus Christ being God incarnate, he acknowledged that the claim of resurrection is more impressive than any put forth by other religious beliefs.

In a debate between Flew and theologian Dr. Gary Habermas, five philosophers and five professional debate judges assessed the arguments presented. Four out of five philosophers voted in favor of Habermas, recognizing the strength of his case for the Resurrection. The judges concluded that Habermas had won the debate, as he effectively refuted skeptical critiques and provided "highly probable evidence" for the historicity of the resurrection.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is crucial because it confirms His identity as the Son of God. The Apostle Paul wrote that Jesus was "declared to be the Son of God with power... by the resurrection from the dead" (Romans 1:4). Christianity's success in the ancient world would have been impossible without irrefutable proof of the Resurrection. This event serves as a foundation for our faith and gives us hope and purpose.

The Origin of Death and Suffering

Death and suffering were not part of God's original creation. They entered the world as a result of sin. Our suffering and mortality stem from Adam and Eve's disobedience, which affected all of humanity. Adam's sin also had catastrophic effects on the entire creation. However, through the obedience of Jesus Christ, we can find life and restoration. It is important to understand that death is not a natural consequence of an evolutionary process leading to biological diversity over billions of years. Instead, death is the consequence of our estrangement from our Creator.

The death of Jesus Christ on the cross demonstrates the seriousness of sin and its consequences. It reveals that God's plan for humanity involves redemption and eternal life. The Apostle Paul wrote, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23). By accepting Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, we can experience forgiveness for our sins and receive the gift of eternal life.

The Hope and Purpose Found in the Resurrection

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated on Easter Sunday because it offers us hope. It affirms God's promise of eternal life and gives us purpose in this present life. Many people struggle with a lack of purpose, even those who believe in God. They question how a loving and all-powerful God can allow suffering and evil in the world. Everything may appear random and meaningless.

However, through the Resurrection, we are reminded that suffering and death are not the ultimate end. God's original creation did not include these elements, and through Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity to be reconciled with our Creator. The Resurrection demonstrates that God has power over death and offers us the hope of our own glorious resurrection.

The Apostle Paul challenged people who found it difficult to believe in the resurrection by asking, "Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?" (Acts 26:8). Even if we believe in God, it can be challenging to accept the idea of supernatural resurrection. However, if we recognize that God created Adam supernaturally in the past, it is consistent to expect Him to raise the dead supernaturally in the future.

God's creative acts align with His character and methods. In the beginning, God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed life into him (Genesis 2:7). Similarly, on the third day after the Crucifixion, God raised Jesus Christ from death to life. This event exemplifies His power over death. It assures us that just as Jesus was raised, we too will be raised to new life.

Why This Matters

Understanding the significance of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection is crucial for Christians. It strengthens our faith and provides hope in a world filled with suffering and uncertainty. By recognizing that sin has consequences and that death is not a natural part of creation, we can grasp God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Embracing the Resurrection as a historical reality deepens our understanding of God's love for us. It affirms that our labor in serving Him is not in vain and that our actions have eternal significance. The Resurrection gives us hope beyond this present life and reminds us that our ultimate purpose is to be reconciled with God and experience eternal life with Him.

Think About It

1. Reflect on the significance of Jesus' suffering and death. How does understanding His sacrifice bring hope and meaning to your own life?

2. Consider the evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. How does this historical event impact your faith and understanding of God's existence?

3. Contemplate the origin of death and suffering in light of Adam and Eve's disobedience. How does this perspective challenge prevailing notions about the nature of suffering in an evolutionary worldview?

4. Meditate on the hope and purpose found in the Resurrection. How does the assurance of eternal life affect your perspective on the challenges and trials of this present life?

5. Evaluate how your understanding of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection influences your daily actions and interactions with others. How does it shape your perspective on the significance of your work in the Lord?