By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
The Bishop of Gombe Diocese, Most Rev. Cletus Ajigben Tambari, has emphasized the centrality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ to the Christian faith, describing it as the ultimate demonstration of God’s power over death and the foundation of salvation.
Delivering a sermon titled “The Power of the Resurrection” based on 1 Corinthians 15:12–20, the Bishop provided a theological context to the epistle, noting that it was written by Apostle Paul to address challenges within the Corinthian church, including divisions, immorality and false teachings—particularly the denial of the resurrection of the dead.
According to him, Paul made it clear that without the resurrection, Christianity would have no basis, stressing that the risen Christ remains the cornerstone of Christian belief.
Bishop Tambari defined divine power as God’s ability to act, transform lives and accomplish what is humanly impossible. He cited scriptural references such as Jeremiah 32:17, Luke 1:37 and Ephesians 1:19–20, noting that the resurrection of Christ stands as the greatest manifestation of that power, bringing life out of death.
He explained that resurrection is the act of rising from the dead to life again, both physically and eternally. Referencing passages including Matthew 28:6, John 11:25 and Acts 2:24, he stressed that the resurrection is neither symbolic nor metaphorical, but a real and historical victory over death.
Highlighting its significance, the cleric pointed to 1 Corinthians 15:12–19, stating that without the resurrection, Christian faith would be futile, preaching meaningless and humanity still bound by sin. He added that the resurrection validates salvation, citing Romans 10:9 and Romans 4:25.
The Bishop further outlined the dimensions of the power of the resurrection, noting that it brings victory over death, offers believers new life, instils hope and assures ultimate triumph. He referenced Hebrews 2:14, Romans 6:4, 1 Peter 1:3 and 1 Corinthians 15:55–57 in support.
Reaffirming core Christian beliefs, he spoke on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life for believers. Citing 1 Thessalonians 4:16, Philippians 3:10 and John 14:19, he said the resurrection guarantees that those who believe in Christ will also rise.
Bishop Tambari urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, noting that Christ’s resurrection assures forgiveness of sins, a living faith and a secure future.
Quoting Romans 8:11, he concluded that the same Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead will
