Many Resurrected With Jesus

As Christ arose, He brought from the grave a multitude of captives. See Matthew 27:52. They were those who had borne their testimony to the truth at the cost of their lives. Now they were to be witnesses for Him who had raised them from the dead.HH 361.1

During His ministry, Jesus had raised the dead to life. But these resurrected ones were not clothed with immortality. They were still subject to death. But those who came from the grave at Christ’s resurrection were raised to everlasting life. Later they ascended with Him as trophies of His victory over death and the grave. But now they went into the city and appeared to many, declaring, “Christ has risen from the dead, and we are risen with Him.” Risen redeemed ones bore witness to the truth of the words, “Your dead shall live; together with my dead body they shall arise.” Isaiah 26:19.HH 361.2

In our Savior, the life that was lost through sin is restored. He is granted the right to give immortality. “I have come,” He said, “that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:54. To the Christian, death is only a sleep, a moment of silence and darkness. “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:4.HH 361.3

The Voice that cried from the cross, “It is finished!” will penetrate the graves and unlock the tombs, and the dead in Christ will rise. At the Savior’s resurrection a few graves were opened, but at His second coming all the precious dead will hear His voice and come forth to glorious immortal life. The same power that raised Christ from the dead will raise His church above all powers, not only in this world, but also in the world to come.HH 361.4