I am he that lived, and was dead; and behold, I am alive for evermore, amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Revelation 1:18 KJV
In this amazing passage from Revelation, John reveals the power Jesus has over life, death, judgment, and salvation. Christ is the only biblical figure that satisfies the description in this verse. Jesus lived without sin. He died on the cross. Our Savior arose from the dead on the third day.
The Wages of Sin
The bible mentions in Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. KJV” As the holder of the keys to hell and death, Christ is alive for evermore. He delivers repentant sinners from the condemnation of hell. The Lord gives eternal life to the faithful. Christ paid for our sins on the cross, restoring believers to right standing with God.
Beyond that, our faith restores us to right standing with God and we become joint heirs in the kingdom of heaven. After our corrupted bodies die, we will be given eternal life in heaven with God. As Jesus said in John 14:2, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. KJV” Jesus’ death and subsequent resurrection made a way for believers to spend eternity in the presence of God.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your mercy. Thank you for loving me and that Christ is alive for evermore. Give me the strength and understanding to live in obedience to your will and word. Forgive me for my failings as I forgive those who have offended me. In Jesus’ name – Amen.”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Made Near in Christ
