Christ’s Resurrection: Our Hope

The Heidelberg Catechism, a cornerstone of Reformed faith, offers profound insights in Lord’s Day 17 (Question 45). This study explores Christ’s resurrection, the heartbeat of our salvation, securing justification, new life, and eternal hope. As we unpack the Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 17, we find assurance and purpose through Jesus’ victory over death.

Question 45: The Profit of Christ’s Resurrection

The Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 17 asks, “What doth the resurrection of Christ profit us?” The answer is threefold: “First, by His resurrection He has overcome death, that He might make us partakers of that righteousness which He had purchased for us by His death; secondly, we are also by His power raised up to a new life; and lastly, the resurrection of Christ is a sure pledge of our blessed resurrection” (Heidelberg Catechism, 1563).

First, Christ’s resurrection ensures our justification. As John Calvin explains, “By His death, Christ satisfied divine justice; by His resurrection, He confirmed the acceptance of His sacrifice” (Institutes, 2.16.13). Jesus’ rising proves God accepted His atonement, securing righteousness for believers. Romans 4:25 affirms: “who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification” (ESV). Our sins are forgiven, and we stand righteous through faith.

Second, the resurrection empowers new life. The power that raised Jesus works in us, enabling holiness. Zacharias Ursinus, the Catechism’s primary author, notes, “The Spirit of Christ, given to us, kindles in us new obedience” (Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism, 1852). This is transformation by the Holy Spirit, as Ephesians 2:5–6 states: “when we were dead in our trespasses, [God] made us alive together with Christ” (ESV). The Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 17 calls us to die to sin and live for God.

Finally, Christ’s resurrection guarantees our future resurrection. Augustine wrote, “Christ’s rising is the pattern of our rising” (City of God, 22.8). The empty tomb promises we will rise to eternal life. 1 Corinthians 15:20 calls Christ “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (ESV), assuring our bodies will be raised at His return. This hope anchors us through trials.

Living in Resurrection Hope

The Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 17 reveals Christ’s resurrection as a living reality, not a distant doctrine. It assures forgiveness, empowers holiness, and anchors hope in eternal life. Meditate on this truth to trust Christ deeply and live boldly for His glory, knowing your salvation is secure.

This article is part of a series. Read the whole series: Heidelberg Catechism.

Citations

  • Augustine. City of God. Translated by Henry Bettenson, 22.8.
  • Calvin, John. Institutes of the Christian Religion. Translated by Henry Beveridge, 2.16.13.
  • Ursinus, Zacharias. Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism. Translated by G.W. Williard, 1852.