HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: 6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. 8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Let me hearken to what is the sum of the gospel. Let me handle the wondrous sword with which Paul vanquished the heathen gods from the Roman empire.
Christ died for my sins. In my place He stood condemned, outcast, forsaken by man and of God. Death and the curse were in my cup — but He has drained it, and it is empty now for me! “That bitter cup, Love drank it up!” By His stripes and passion, I am healed.
Christ was buried. He laid Himself down to rest for a little while in Joseph’s tomb. And thus He has hallowed and beautified the grave for me. The grave has become my quiet habitation. It is the hostel of a traveller on his way to the heavenly city.
Christ has been raised on the third day. It is the pledge that the Father and the Judge have accepted Christ’s doing and His dying on my behalf. It is the pattern of my rising into spiritual life here. It is the prophecy of my inheritance of eternal glory hereafter.
Christ has “appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at the same time. Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last, of all, He appeared to me also!”He appeared to me also, who am less than the least of all saints. By His Word and by His Spirit, He has called me out of darkness into His marvellous light. I have seen Him for myself. I have heard His all-prevailing and conquering voice.
It is a simple gospel. Yet it is very full and very significant, very potent and very gladdening. If there are shallows in it where a little child may wade — then there are depths where a giant can swim!
