As I See It…

There are several Scriptures that tie the events of the cross and the power of the resurrection to the life of a Christian. Paul describes our positional relationship to Calvary: “I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live…” Peter reminds us that our redemption obtained because of Calvary came at quite a price: “Knowing that you are not redeemed with perishable things…but with the precious blood of…Christ.”

That new and beautiful position in Christ is not overlooked by the arch-enemy of our faith. We are told that Satan goes about like a “roaring lion” seeking to devour us. On the other hand, we are encouraged by Paul to put on appropriate armor so that we may withstand the attacks of Satan…being covered from head to toe with defensive garb; our only offensive implement being the Word of God.

The price, our position and our spiritual battles are intrinsically tied to Calvary. The summary of our spiritual state has been restated in a powerful Puritan prayer: The Servant in Battle. Here are some excerpts:

O Lord, I bless you that the issue of the battle between yourself and Satan has never been uncertain, and will end in victory. Calvary broke the dragon’s head, and I contend with a vanquished foe, who with all his subtlety and strength has already been overcome. When I feel the serpent at my heel may I remember him whose heel was bruised, but who, when bruised, broke the devil’s head. My soul with inward joy extols the mighty conqueror…Give me such fellowship with you that I may defy Satan, unbelief, the flesh, the world, with delight that comes not from a creature, and which a creature cannot mar. Give me a draught of the eternal fountain that lies in thy immutable, everlasting love and decree.

All of that and more come from the events of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank God, He is risen indeed!

Pastor Megilligan