Victory in Christ

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. – 1 Corinthians 15:57

We live in a dark world filled with sin, pain and suffering, and death. With so many trials and difficulties, it is no wonder there are so many struggling with fear, anxiety, and depression. However, Jesus offers us hope. In Christ we can be more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). We can have victory because of Christ’s victory. The King of kings and the Lord of lords overcame the world.

He overcame sin.

Jesus came to fulfill all righteousness. He came as the spotless and sinless Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). And though He was tempted in all points as we are, He never sinned (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus lived the perfect life and overcome the temptations of the world so that He could offer Himself as a substitutionary sacrifice for our sins. To declare His victory over sin, Jesus said, “It is finished” (John 19:30). This phrase comes from the Greek word, tetelestai, which simply means paid in full. Thus, Jesus was proclaiming that the debt of sin had been completely paid. Jesus satisfied the fullness of God’s wrath by overcoming sin and then becoming it for us (2 Corinthians 5:21). Therefore, if you trust in Christ and His atoning work on the cross, then you are forgiven and made as white as snow. Your sin and your shame has been nailed to the cross with Christ.

He conquered the grave.

When Jesus died on the cross, His followers thought that all hope was lost. Their King had been crucified and placed in a tomb.  But the story did not end with His death. The Scriptures record that on the third day Jesus rose from the dead. Though He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, He came out of the tomb like a roaring lion with unlimited power. Not even death could hold Him. Jesus demonstrated that there is nothing that can rival His power and authority (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Therefore, we can have assurance in our salvation and victory in the one who conquered the grave.

He defeated the powers of darkness. 

Throughout Christ’s earthly ministry, He was engaged in constant spiritual warfare. He was tempted by the devil in the wilderness. He was confronted by thousands of demons and unclean spirits. He was tested and questioned by the religious and political leaders. But every time Jesus encountered the kingdom of darkness – HE WON. Christ never lost a battle. However, when Jesus died on the cross and was buried in a tomb, the devil and the powers of darkness thought they had finally won. They believed they defeated the King. But they were dead wrong. Jesus rose victoriously from the dead and was given all authority in heaven and on the earth (Matthew 28:18). Christ made fools out of the powers of darkness (Colossians 2:15). They had no idea that the King was going to defeat them through His death and resurrection, but that is exactly what He did. Thus, the resurrection reveals that Jesus is above all others and that His Kingdom is forever.

Let us rejoice in our victory found in the King who conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness! Worship Him today.