BE AS THOSE RAISED FROM THE DEAD: A CALL TO TRUE OBEDIENCE AND NEWNESS OF LIFE By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
“Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Romans 6:11
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Introduction
The message of salvation is not merely an invitation to adopt a religious identity; it is a radical transformation from death to life. Humanity, in its natural state, exists in spiritual death—alienated from God, enslaved by sin, and destined for eternal separation from the Creator. Yet through the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ, a divine exchange has taken place: death has been replaced with life, bondage with freedom, and condemnation with justification.
To be “raised from the dead” is not symbolic language alone; it is a spiritual reality that demands a corresponding lifestyle. The believer is not simply improved but entirely reborn, translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. This transformation carries with it both privilege and responsibility. The privilege is reconciliation with God as Father; the responsibility is to live in obedience, gratitude, and holiness.
However, a troubling reality persists within the body of believers. Many who have received the gift of salvation fail to fully appreciate its magnitude. Their shallow understanding leaves them vulnerable to the storms of life, the pressures of persecution, and the allure of worldly pleasures. Consequently, some turn back, abandoning the path of life for the deception of sin.
This lesson seeks to explore deeply what it means to live as one raised from the dead. It examines the necessity of gratitude, the danger of spiritual complacency, the reality of personal responsibility, and the unwavering call to obedience. It is a call to examine oneself honestly before God and to respond with a life that reflects the power of resurrection.
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THE REALITY OF SPIRITUAL DEATH AND NEW LIFE
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” — Ephesians 2:1
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Before one can fully grasp the significance of being raised from the dead, it is essential to understand the condition from which we have been delivered. Scripture makes it clear that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. This sin is not merely an action but a condition—a state of spiritual death.
Spiritual death manifests as separation from God, moral corruption, and bondage to sinful desires. In this state, humanity is incapable of saving itself. No amount of good works, religious rituals, or moral efforts can bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful man.
Yet, in His infinite mercy, God provided a way. Through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the power of sin and death was broken. Those who believe are made alive, not gradually, but instantaneously in the spirit. They are given a new identity, a new nature, and a new destiny.
To be raised from the dead means that the old life has ended. The former identity as a slave to sin no longer holds authority. The believer is now alive unto God, empowered to live in righteousness. This is not theoretical; it is practical and must be reflected in daily choices.
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THE PRIVILEGE OF REDEMPTION AND RESTORATION
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” — Ephesians 1:7
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Redemption is the act of being bought back at a price. The price paid was not silver or gold, but the precious blood of Jesus Christ. This sacrifice restored humanity’s relationship with God, granting access to the Father and the inheritance of eternal life.
This restoration is deeply personal. God is no longer distant; He becomes Father. The believer is no longer a stranger but a child. This relationship is marked by love, intimacy, and purpose.
However, the privilege of redemption demands a response. Gratitude must characterize the life of the redeemed. To receive such a costly gift and treat it lightly is to dishonor the One who gave it.
True appreciation of salvation produces joy, reverence, and commitment. It leads to a life that seeks to please God rather than self. It fuels perseverance in trials and steadfastness in faith.
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THE DANGER OF SHALLOW FAITH
“But he that received the seed into stony places… dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth… by and by he is offended.” — Matthew 13:20–21
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One of the greatest dangers facing believers is shallow faith. This is a faith that receives the message of salvation with excitement but lacks depth and endurance. It is easily shaken by difficulties, temptations, and societal pressures.
Such individuals may initially appear committed, but their foundation is weak. When challenges arise, they retreat. When persecution comes, they compromise. When the world entices, they return.
Shallow faith stems from a lack of understanding and appreciation of what Christ has done. Without a deep conviction, the believer cannot withstand the storms of life.
God desires a rooted and grounded faith—one that endures, grows, and bears fruit. This requires intentional cultivation through prayer, study of the Word, and fellowship with God.
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THE TRAGEDY OF TURNING BACK
“But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again.” — 2 Peter 2:22
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Turning back to sin after experiencing salvation is a grave tragedy. It reflects a rejection of the grace of God and a preference for the fleeting pleasures of sin.
The imagery used in Scripture is strong and intentional. It portrays the irrationality and degradation of returning to what once enslaved and destroyed. Sin offers nothing but destruction, yet many are deceived into believing it holds satisfaction.
Those who turn back often justify their actions with excuses. They blame circumstances, other people, or even spiritual forces. However, the truth remains that each individual is responsible for their choices.
God does not accept excuses; He honors obedience. The one who returns to sin demonstrates a lack of true transformation and appreciation of salvation.
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THE ILLUSION OF “THE BEST LIFE NOW”
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” — Mark 8:36
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Many are drawn to the idea of enjoying life to the fullest in the present, disregarding eternal consequences. This mindset prioritizes temporary pleasure over eternal truth.
The pursuit of worldly satisfaction often leads to spiritual neglect. People indulge in excess, celebrate without holiness, and live in contradiction to the very faith they profess.
Religious observances become mere rituals, devoid of genuine devotion. Once the celebrations end, God is forgotten, and life returns to its sinful patterns.
This illusion blinds individuals to the reality of eternity. While they may experience temporary enjoyment, they forfeit eternal life. The cost is far greater than they realize.
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PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY IN THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVER
“So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” — Romans 14:12
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A critical truth that must be understood is personal responsibility. Each believer is accountable for their actions, choices, and obedience.
Blaming the devil for sin is a common but misguided practice. While temptation exists, it does not override the will of the believer. Through Christ, victory over sin has already been secured.
The believer has been empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist temptation and live righteously. Therefore, continued sin is not a matter of inability but of choice.
This truth emphasizes the seriousness of obedience. It is not optional but essential. It reflects the authenticity of one’s faith and relationship with God.
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THE CALL TO OBEDIENCE OVER EMPTY WORDS
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father.” — Matthew 7:21
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Obedience is the true measure of faith. Words alone are insufficient; actions reveal the heart. The parable of the two sons illustrates this principle clearly.
One son initially refused but later obeyed. The other promised obedience but failed to act. The first demonstrated true honor through action, while the second exposed his insincerity.
God values obedience over empty declarations. It is better to struggle and obey than to speak confidently and fail to act.
This calls for integrity in the believer’s walk with God. Promises must be matched with action. Faith must be evidenced through obedience.
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SUMMARY
The call to be as those raised from the dead is a call to live in the reality of transformation. It is a reminder that salvation is not merely a moment but a lifestyle. The believer has been delivered from death, redeemed by grace, and restored to a relationship with God.
However, this privilege carries responsibility. Shallow faith, turning back to sin, and living for temporary pleasures are dangers that must be avoided. Each believer is accountable for their choices and must pursue a life of obedience.
True faith is demonstrated through gratitude, perseverance, and commitment to God’s will.
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CONCLUSION
The message is clear and urgent. To be raised from the dead is to live differently. It is to reject the old life and embrace the new. It is to walk in obedience, holiness, and devotion.
God has done everything necessary for salvation. The response now lies with each individual. Will you live as one who has been transformed, or will you return to the ways of death?
The choices made today determine eternal destiny. There is no neutrality—only obedience or disobedience, life or death.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your life honestly before God. Reflect on your choices, your priorities, and your commitment. Do not be content with shallow faith or empty words.
Commit yourself fully to living as one raised from the dead. Pursue God daily, resist sin intentionally, and walk in obedience consistently.
Let your life be a testimony of transformation and a reflection of God’s glory.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Be encouraged that the power that raised Christ from the dead is at work within you. You are not alone in this journey. God has provided His Spirit to guide, strengthen, and sustain you.
No matter the challenges you face, remain steadfast. Your labor is not in vain. Your obedience is seen, and your reward is certain.
Walk boldly in your new identity, knowing that you are alive unto God.
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SALVATION PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again to give me new life. I repent of my sins and turn away from my old ways.
Lord Jesus, come into my heart and be my Savior and my Lord. Wash me with Your precious blood and make me a new creation. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to live in obedience to Your will.
From this day forward, I choose to follow You. I choose life over death, righteousness over sin, and truth over deception. Thank You for saving me and raising me from the dead.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
