Easter Message

As Easter approaches, we should all take time to remember why we are celebrating. The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith and one of the most important events in human history, but how do we know it really happened? 

The ways the disciples of Christ died because of their faith is very convincing. The Bible tells us in Acts 12:2 that King Herod "killed James the brother of John with the sword", which most likely refers to beheading. History tells us Peter was crucified upside down in Rome. Matthew was killed in Ethiopia. John was boiled in oil, but he didn't die, so he was exiled to Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation.  He was later released and was the only disciple no to be martyred. Bartholomew was flayed to death by a whip in Armenia for his preaching. Andrew was whipped and tied to an x-shaped cross in Greece for spreading the gospel. He continued preaching for two days until he died. Thomas was stabbed with a sword while establishing the church in India. Matthias, who replaced Judas after he betrayed Jesus, was stoned and beheaded.

These were men who walked with Jesus while He was in the flesh on Earth and knew of His resurrection. If the resurrection hadn't taken place, I don't believe they would have suffered the torture they endured defending it and knowing that Jesus was crucified, buried, and that He rose from the tomb on the third day. We know that He will return as He has promised us! 

                                       The Pastor