As we recite the Apostles' Creed, we declare, "I believe in . . . the resurrection of the body." What have we understood this to mean, especially as distinct from a spiritual afterlife?

Here are a couple of passages from the Westminster Confession of Faith:

Of Christ the Mediator

This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake, which, that he might discharge, he was made under the law, and did perfectly fulfill it; endured most grievous torments immediately in his soul, and most painful sufferings in his body; was crucified and died, was buried, and remained under the power of death, yet saw no corruption. On the third day he arose from the dead, with the same body in which he suffered; with which also he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right hand of his Father, making intercession; and shall return to judge men and angels, at the end of the world. (6.046, emphasis added)

Of the State of Man After Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead

At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed: and all the dead shall be raised up with the self-same bodies, and none other, although with different qualities, which shall be united again to their souls for ever. (6.178, emphasis added)

This, my friends, is the shocking good news of Jesus Christ! Don't let Easter go by without it.

May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

Grace and Peace,

Dr. James C. Goodloe IV,
Executive Director