Introduction:
Good morning, dear congregation. Today, we will address a fundamental question that has perplexed humanity for ages: Why do we die? By exploring the biblical perspective, we can find comfort and hope in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Scripture Reading:
Let’s begin with a scripture from Romans 5:12 (NIV): “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
The Origin of Death:
According to the Bible, death entered the world as a result of sin. In Genesis 2:16-17 (NIV), God commanded Adam, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, sin entered the world, and with it, death. Romans 6:23 (NIV) further explains, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The Consequence of Sin:
Death is the natural consequence of sin. It affects all of creation and is a reminder of the broken relationship between humanity and God. Ecclesiastes 3:20 (NIV) reminds us, “All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return.” This physical death underscores the temporal nature of our earthly lives.
The Hope of Resurrection:
While death is a reality we must face, the Bible offers us hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. John 11:25-26 (NIV) records Jesus’ words: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Jesus’ resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, assuring us that death is not the end.
Eternal Life Through Christ:
Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are offered the gift of eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV) states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This promise of eternal life transforms our understanding of death, shifting our focus from the temporary to the eternal.
Victory Over Death:
In 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 (NIV), Paul proclaims the victory over death: “When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ ‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Living With Eternal Perspective:
Understanding why we die and the hope we have in Christ should impact how we live. Colossians 3:2-3 (NIV) advises, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” By focusing on our eternal destination, we can live purposeful lives that honor God and reflect His love.
Conclusion:
Death is a part of our earthly journey due to sin, but through Jesus Christ, we have the promise of eternal life. This hope allows us to face death with faith and assurance, knowing that it is not the end but a transition to eternal glory with God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help us to live with an eternal perspective, trusting in Your promises and finding comfort in Your Word. May we share this hope with others and live lives that glorify You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
