Alive in Christ! – The Gift of Life

Come Alive! A Celebration of Easter!


“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

The choice should seem obvious but it is often clouded. Who wouldn’t choose life over death? Yet, some continue to choose death. Perhaps it is the wording of the choice, the situation surrounding the condition, the confusion of the issue. Most would not intentionally select death, but by refusing the option that leads to life the alternative is the same.

When Christ came it was with an offer of life, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). He has not just offered that we may live but that we may have “more abundant” living. The NLT interprets it, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life,” and The Message says, “I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.”

The greatest gift Jesus could ever give was life. In a fallen world where sin has brought its curse on all mankind, the Savior came to declare an end to death. He came to die for us that “through death He might destroy him who had the power of death” (Hebrews 2:14). The power of the Gospel is found in Jesus giving His life for us, and that He rose from the dead, victorious forevermore. Jesus said, “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19). The offer of life is magnanimous; it is universal. All may come and drink of the water of life freely (Revelation 21:6). There is no limit to its supply, no rationing of its provision.

Christ is forever the gentleman. He doesn’t force His way into any life. He is the polite visitor who gently knocks at the door and awaits a welcoming invitation. He graciously calls, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

Everyone has the choice. The opportunity to experience life is available to all. The same offer is made to you today as was made to the people of Israel in Moses’ day, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19). Choose the gift of life!