Of First Importance

"For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me." 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 3

Paul said that to him, what was of FIRST IMPORTANCE was Christ crucified and risen. In the Church today we assume that we all agree this is of FIRST IMPORTANCE. I'm not sure that is the case. Sure, tomorrow it will be as it is Easter Sunday. But I am not convinced that the majority of those who are part of the North American Church would say on tuesday afternoon that what is of "first importance" is Christ crucified and raised. (i'm not sure this would be my first answer either...and this troubles me deeply.)

The death and resurrection of utter importance...and more than that...it is of "first importance"! Without the cross and the empty tomb, the Christian life is both impossible and pointless.

How does the cross shape our view and role in marriage, parenting, friendship, citizenship, pastoring, leadership, etc? In each of these roles, if I can not say that Christ's death and resurrection is of first importance then I do not understand the majestic grace of God in how the cross and empty tomb free, sustain, uphold, and empower me through faith to fulfill all these roles for the good of those on the other side of them rather than for myself. (2 Corinthians 5:15 15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.)

What would happen the other 364 non-Easter days of the year if what was of first importance to you and me was the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus the Christ?