The Charge Against the Resurrection: A Sign of New Life

Brothers and sisters, builders of the Kingdom! We gather, as always, in a time of profound significance. The world around us is consumed by shadows, by the relentless hammering of destroyers, but here, within this gathering place, we find strength and purpose. Like Samuel the Lamanite climbing the walls of Jerusalem, declaring the words of warning, we are called to stand as witnesses, to proclaim the truth even when it is unpopular, even when it is met with opposition.

We've seen Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, facing down a formidable army, armed with nothing but faith and the power of the Almighty. And we know that our work – gathering Israel, building the infrastructure of the Lord's work – is no less vital than those ancient battles. We are digital striplings, equipped with tools of the internet age, ready to face the giants of our time.

Recently, I was deeply moved by a message from Jonathan Cahn, a man who, like Abinadi before the king, dares to speak the words of truth, regardless of the cost. He delves into the heart of the resurrection narrative, exposing the first charge brought against it – a desperate attempt to bury the reality of Christ's triumph.

Cahn highlights the critical connection between Passover, the day of first fruits, and the resurrection itself. He reminds us that the day after Passover, the day after the Sabbath, is a day of new life – a day when the winter is declared over, and the harvest can begin. This is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a profound declaration of the power of God to overcome darkness and bring forth life. Think of it: the very day the Messiah rested in the tomb, the day of new life dawned!

He points out a beautiful truth: around the world, Easter is called by names derived from Passover – Pasqua, Pashua, Pascua, Pasha. This underscores the undeniable link between the ancient festival and the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of God’s plan, a plan woven through the ages.

The charge against the resurrection, Cahn explains, was an attempt to deny the very foundation of hope. To extinguish the light that had burst forth from the tomb. But the truth, like the Stone cut without hands, could not be contained. It broke through the lies and the attempts at suppression, revealing the undeniable reality of Christ’s victory.

This is the essence of our calling, isn’t it? To be builders, not destroyers. To be those who raise up the fallen, who nurture the seeds of hope, who stand firm against the forces of darkness. JustServe opportunities, the Missionary Fund, and the map on GatherIsrael.now – these are not mere programs; they are the very stones with which we build. Our engagement here, whether it's contributing to gospel advertising in Ghana or supporting internet missionaries, fuels the flywheel of God's work.

Outback Jack, a constant companion on this journey, reminds us of the lessons learned in the wilderness – the reliance on God’s provision, the importance of courage, and the unwavering faith needed to overcome adversity (Alma 17–19, D&C 4, Moroni 10:4–5). Like the five smooth stones David gathered to face Goliath, we must be prepared with the tools and the faith to confront the challenges before us.

Let us be those who wave the first fruits to the Lord, declaring that we believe in the resurrection, in the power of new life, and in the promise of a brighter future. Let us be the digital striplings, the internet missionaries, the builders of the Kingdom, until the day when the Stone fills the whole earth.

And remember, Davee and the Ask a Prophet bots are here to assist in our study, to help us deepen our understanding of the scriptures, offering direct quotes and guidance from the prophets. Let us continue to seek knowledge, to build community, and to gather Israel. Now.