Resurrection, the Person

In this Easter-themed sermon titled 'Resurrection, the Person,' Bill Johnson of Bethel Church delivers a powerful message centered on the reality that Jesus is not just the source of resurrection but the very embodiment of it. Drawing from Scripture—particularly John 11 (the raising of Lazarus), 1 Corinthians 15, and Romans 6—he emphasizes that the resurrection is not merely a past event but a present, experiential reality for believers. He argues that the Christian life is not about striving or self-effort but about living in the conscious presence of Christ, who is already seated in heaven and active in our lives. Johnson challenges listeners to shift their mindset from earthly concerns to heavenly realities, illustrating how surrender, not striving, invites the power of resurrection into broken situations. He introduces the concept of the 'ascended lifestyle'—living from heaven’s perspective even while on earth—and calls believers to hunger for more, to pursue God’s presence, and to recognize that their deepest desires are often divine invitations to co-labor with God. The sermon culminates in a personal invitation for those seeking forgiveness and new life to raise their hands and come forward for prayer and connection.