This month we are approaching Easter Sunday which we often call Resurrection Sunday, for it is a remembrance of that first Easter Sunday on which Jesus Christ our Lord rose from the grave. While it is good and right for us to celebrate Easter each year, perhaps we also need reminding that every Sunday is a resurrection Sunday. Indeed, each Sunday that we gather is a continued celebration of the Risen King and of our expectation of His return to rule and to reign forevermore.
Now we turn to the truth that stands at the very center of human history: Jesus died for you—and if you know Him, God has promised to do good to and for you (Rom. 5:6–11; 1 Pet. 3:18; Rom. 8:28–39). This truth draws our attention to the cross and helps us understand what Christ has accomplished for us.
President Trump made headlines recently for comments he made about his hopes for ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. He said indicated that ending that war and saving thousands of lives would boost his chances of entering heaven. This sort of statement seems to play into a works based salvation, but it is difficult to know just what sort of theology of the afterlife to which the President adheres. Further complicating the matter is there is some debate as to whether he was making a joke rather than a serious comment. I sincerely hope that the President has a true understanding of the gospel that is based on grace through Jesus Christ and not the works of man’s hands. Regardless of the President’s personal beliefs, his comment illustrates a widely held belief in our culture—namely that a person can earn entrance heaven through their good deeds.
