Luke 8:49-56

Luke 8:49-56

1. Let us notice how universal is the dominion which death holds over the sons of men.
2. Let us notice that faith in Christ's love and power is the best remedy in time of trouble.
3. Let us notice the almighty power which our Lord Jesus Christ possesses even over death.

"Why should we not rather look the subject of death in the face, in order that when our turn comes we may be prepared to die? Death will come to our houses, whether we like it or not. Death will take each of us away, despite our dislike to hearing about it. Surely it is the part of a wise man to get ready for this great change. Why should we not be ready? There is one who can deliver us from the fear of death."

"Nothing will make us cheerful and tranquil but an abiding sense of Christ's love, Christ's wisdom, Christ's care over us, and Christ's providential management of all our affairs. Faith will not sink under the weight of evil tidings. (Psalm. 112:7.) Faith can sit still and wait for better times. Faith can see light even in the darkest hour, and a needs-be for the heaviest trial. Faith can find room to build Ebenezers under any circumstances, and can sing songs in the night in any condition."

"Patriarchs, and kings, and prophets, and apostles, have all in turn been obliged to yield to him. They have all died. But thanks be unto God, there is one stronger than death."

Questions:

1. Can we say with Paul, “for to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain?” Death is a great enemy, but Christ has removed the sting of death in His death and resurrection. What does this truth do to our hearts?

2. Ryle says that “faith will not sink under the weight of evil tidings, can sit still and wait for better times, can see light even in the darkest hour, is a needs-be for the heaviest trial, and can find room to build Ebenezers under any circumstances.” Have we found this to be true? What are areas we need God to increase our faith?

3. Ryle vividly describes the great enemy death is, and then the great hope we have in Jesus who is stronger than death! What do these verses of Christ’s victory do to our hearts?