Hoping to correct a noticeable lack of emphasis on the resurrection within evangelical churches, Warnock has penned this book in an effort to examine the resurrection, its place in Christian theology, and its ramifications for Christian living. He largely succeeds, producing a helpful reminder of both the breadth and depth of the resurrection. Warnock’s strength lies in his singular focus; even when he veers off into tangential matters, he rarely strays from the topic at hand.

We must remember that the cross is just as empty as the tomb, and Christ is now glorified, having completed His work. The truth is, we cannot be truly cross-centered without also being empty-grave-centered! Jesus was not just our prophet and priest—He is our reigning King. [62]

By reminding us so forcefully of the problem of death, the Bible prepares us to fully appreciate the importance of the solution that resurrection offers. Only Jesus’ death and life-giving resurrection can give us hope. There is no mention of the word resurrection until the New Testament, although in some of the most faith-inspiring verses in the Bible, we do see that death is not the end. [79]

Salvation is not merely a case of believing in something that happened thousands of years ago. We are not saved by a belief. We are saved by union with a person. We cannot separate the propitiatory work of Christ from Christ Himself. We are saved not only by believing the fact that Christ died for our sins, but by union with the crucified and risen, exalted Savior. Only through union with a living Savior who has in Him the virtue of His atoning death do justification, forgiveness, and all the blessings of redemption become ours. [141]

Our biggest problem is that we do not see Jesus as He is. If we could desire Him, treasure Him, delight in Him, be satisfied in Him, cherish Him, savor Him, value Him, revere Him, esteem and admire Him as much as He deserves, we would want to follow Him as our Lord in every area of our life, and sin would instantly lose its appeal. One of the most important ways for us to deal with sin in our lives is to get a clear picture of Jesus in our minds and hearts. Jesus shares every attribute with God and is therefore not to be messed around with, argued with, or treated with contempt. It is as we contemplate Jesus and His resurrection that we will be changed. [149]

When we pray, we need to examine our hearts and say, “Why am I asking for this? Is it so I can be more comfortable? Or is it so God will be glorified?” [175]

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