Is the resurrection of Christ neglected in the Church today? The truth is: many Christians fall into a false dichotomy. Some tend to give preeminence to the cross over the empty tomb. We too want a cross-centered gospel. The cross was the tree of death of Jesus, but the tree of life to those who believe. However, the implication of a cross-only view of the gospel is that though it rightly emphasizes repentance and forgiveness, it usually does not go any further. We cannot be truly cross-centered without also being empty-grave-centered.[1] The Church needs a rich resurrection theology. If we live in introspection and confession, we will never live the abundant life God has called us to live.
In our worship, the cross teaches us that we are clean to enter into Yahweh’s holy temple. In our worship, the resurrection compels us to revel in the God who makes all things new.
[1] Warnock, 62.
