The New Testament Witness to Christ and His Kingdom, Student Workbook, SW13

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T H E N E W T E S T A M E N T W I T N E S S T O C H R I S T A N D H I S K I N G D O M

This lesson focuses upon the implications of the resurrection, Jesus’ post- resurrection appearances, and his commission and ascension on his identity as Messiah. The doctrine of the resurrection and the resurrection of Christ is the most significant doctrine in Christian belief. The entire credibility of our theology, faith, and ministry is based on the historical certainty of Jesus having been raised from the dead. The New Testament provides clear and compelling testimony about the appearances of Jesus after his resurrection, beginning with the fact of his resurrection at the tomb up until his appearance to the Apostles at the Sea of Galilee. No other fact or testimony provides a clearer witness to the vindication of the Messianic identity of Jesus Christ than this one unequivocal fact: Jesus Christ has been raised from the dead. The Great Commission is an expression of the authority of the risen Lord Jesus, a token of his continuing vindication of his identity as Messiah, relating both to the fulfillment of prophecy as well as to global mission. Jesus validated his resurrection objectively to the Apostles conclusively in the forty-day period after his resurrection, giving conclusive evidence of his life after his suffering, as well as teaching them regarding the Kingdom of God. During this period, Jesus repeats his commission to the Apostles to evangelize the world and promises to send them the Holy Spirit to fulfill his commission to go and make disciples worldwide. The ascension of Christ is that final historical sign which vindicates Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah of God. Now is the time for you to discuss with your fellow students your questions about the implications of the resurrection on the vindication of Christ’s identity as Messiah. No other doctrine or teaching carries such weight in the Christian theological framework as the resurrection of Jesus–it is the body and soul of Christian theology, and the heart of our conviction about who Jesus really was and is today. Your ability to relate this teaching to your life and teaching is critical to

Summary of Key Concepts

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Student Application and Implications