CHRIST THE LORD IS RISEN TODAY!

Matthew 28:5-6 – Devotional

Matthew 28:5-6

“And the angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.’“

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The hymn “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” is one of the most beloved Easter hymns in Christian worship, with roots going back to the early 18th century.

The text was written by Charles Wesley in 1739. He was a key leader in the Methodist movement alongside his brother John Wesley.

It first appeared in a collection called “Hymns and Sacred Poems” (1739). The original version had 11 stanzas (far more than what is typically sung today).

The hymn celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and emphasizes:

• Victory over death
• Joy and praise (“Alleluia!” repeated throughout)
• The believer’s participation in Christ’s resurrection

It strongly reflects themes found in passages like:

• 1 Corinthians 15 (resurrection victory)
• Romans 6 (new life in Christ)

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Christ the Lord Is Risen Today (lyrics by Charles Wesley, 1739)

[verse 1]
Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

[verse 2]
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once he died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where’s thy victory, boasting grave? Alleluia!

[verse 3]
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened paradise, Alleluia!

[verse 4]
Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like him, like him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Blessings dear hearts! May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!

– – – Pastor Cecil

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