In this message, Stephen emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical Jesus and the Christ revealed through the Holy Spirit. He reminds listeners that knowing Christ begins in eternity past, acknowledging Jesus as the Word that was with God in the beginning. He then journeys through key moments in Jesus' life—His birth, hidden life, manifestation before men, and ultimately His death and resurrection. Stephen stresses that Jesus' death was all-inclusive and universal, signifying our death to sin and the world. However, the core message centers around Jesus' resurrection as the essence of the Gospel and our new relationship with Him. This resurrection life empowers us to live in newness, minister effectively, and experience daily victory. He then delves into Jesus' ascension, emphasizing our ascension with Him and His position of authority above all things. Finally, Stephen addresses Christ's second coming, reminding listeners of His eager anticipation and the need for the Church, His bride, to prepare for His return.

Outline of Main Points:

Knowing Christ:
1. In eternity past
2. Through prophecy
3. In His birth, life, death, and resurrection
Jesus' death:
1. All-inclusive and universal
2. Our death to sin and the world in Him
Jesus' resurrection:
1. Essence of the Gospel
2. Establishes a new, inward relationship with Christ
3. His resurrection is our resurrection
4. Empowers us to walk in newness of life
5. Manifested in daily life through death to self
Jesus' ascension:
1. Received power, dominion, authority, and rule from the Father
2. Our ascension with Him
3. Entered heaven as the worthy Son of Man
4. We are seated with Him in heavenly places
5. His victory and authority become ours
Jesus' return:
1. He is eager to return for His bride
2. The Church must prepare for His coming
3. Will culminate in eternal union with God

Death & Resurrection

Death & Resurrection