Our Samson

Read Judges 15

Read 1 Corinthians 15

Death is swallowed up in victory! What an encouraging message. In 1 Corinthians 15 we hear that Jesus' resurrection is true and historical, and that makes all the difference. Because he is raised, we have hope, life, and salvation! We can look forward to everlasting life in heaven when we die, and on the Last Day, the resurrection of our bodies. And just as the glory of a plant far surpasses that of a seed, so our glorious and perfect bodies will GREATLY surpass the bodies we have now in this fallen existence.

All this is because of Jesus. In sin we were doomed to death and hell. But dying on the cross for our forgiveness, and rising to new life, he has become our victory! Victory over the power of sin and guilt in our lives! Power over death! Power over Devil and all his demons! Jesus is the mighty warrior who accomplishes this for us.

In this way, Jesus is our Samson. Samson, the strong man who overpowered many (and who gives his life to gain victory for Israel in the next chapter of Judges), foreshadows Christ. Samson is a seriously flawed character. But God was pleased to use him to deliver Israel, and to point to the ultimate victory through the ultimate Warrior, Jesus the Christ.

He is our Samson who has smashed the gates of hell. We give thanks for him today.

Our Samson storms death's citadel
And carries off the gates of hell.
Alleluia!
Oh, praise him for his conquest!

The pow'r of death he broke in two
When he arose to life anew.
Alleluia!
To him all praise be given!

He frees the prisoned and oppressed
And pardons all whom sin possessed.
Alleluia!
Oh, praise him for his mercy!

In festal spirit, song, and word,
To Jesus, our victorious Lord,
Alleluia!
All praise and thanks be rendered.

Amen.

(LW 146:4-7)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!