Philippians 3:7–10 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
Every believer has the hope of eternal life. When Jesus went to the grave, all the forces of darkness gathered to stop His resurrection. Principalities and powers were present—but Jesus triumphed over them on our behalf.
Romans 8:11 says: “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, He will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”
Ephesians 1:19–20 reminds us that the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead now lives in us.
So, why do we not walk in the same power and authority that Christ did?
Christianity is not just a religion—it is a life of power. Even before the resurrection, Jesus demonstrated this power. And He gave us access to it. We have the same abilities, but we must know the power of His resurrection. You don’t automatically walk in that power—it comes through learning and training.
Everything in life is taught. A child must be trained and taught.
Ephesians 4:20–21 (NLT) says: “But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him…”
The things of the Spirit must be learned. We grow up into Him through consistent teaching and practice. In life, we spend 3, 4, or even more years in school to prepare for a career. In the same way, Christian maturity requires intentional learning.
Philippians 4:11 (NLT) shows us Paul’s process: “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.” Paul learned Christ and understood how to navigate all seasons of life.
Why Were the Disciples So Great?
Because they went through intense teaching and training. Before Pentecost, Jesus taught them daily.
Acts 1:1–2 (NLT): “In my first book I told you… everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day He was taken up to heaven…”
In Matthew 5, Jesus began a structured teaching like a curriculum—layered and progressive.
In Matthew 13:10, He taught in parables to the crowds, but explained plainly to the disciples.
He used two methods: teaching and demonstration.
In Luke 9 and 10, Jesus gave His disciples power before His resurrection. It was practical training—they observed, learned, and practiced.
Hebrews 5:14 (NLT) tells us: “Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.”
This is a call to all believers to become students and practitioners of the Word.
Matthew 28:18–20 (NLT): “Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.”
The Kingdom operates like a school—it is not automatic. Without submission to teaching, learning, and practice, believers will never reach their full potential.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT): “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true…”
The fivefold ministry exists to equip us until we reach maturity in Christ. We are a kingdom of learners. Our subject is Christ. We learn through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, men and women of faith, and observation.
When Peter healed the man at the Beautiful Gate, he wasn’t acting randomly. He had been taught by Jesus to use His name to heal and cast out demons.
Paul spent 14–17 years being trained before entering full ministry.
Psalm 144:1 (NLT): “Praise the Lord, who is my rock. He trains my hands for war…” David was trained by God how to war.
Even Elijah, a man like us, didn’t operate in power automatically. In Deuteronomy 11:16–17, Elijah understood that no rain was a result of disobedience to God. He quoted Scripture to Ahab.
We Have Power Over Nature
Joshua commanded the sun and moon to stand still. Jesus stilled the storm. As believers, we have access to that same authority—but we must learn how to use it.
We also have the power to cause abundance. Jesus learned both from God and man, even as a boy in the synagogue.
1 Kings 17: Elijah taught the widow at Zarephath about multiplication through obedience and faith.
2 Kings 4:1–7: Elisha helped another widow multiply oil—Never say you have nothing. A little with God becomes a lot.
The miracle of the loaves didn’t begin with Jesus.
2 Kings 4:42–44: Elisha did it first. Jesus learned this.
The principle of multiplication is taught and learned.
We Have Power Over Death
When we preach the gospel, we are offering life to the dead.
We can also raise the dead. Elijah and Elisha did it. Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter.
Paul raised Eutychus. All this was learned. It came through teaching, observing, and doing.
Conclusion
The power of His resurrection is available to every believer—but it isn’t automatic. It must be learned, practiced, and walked out daily. Just as Jesus and the apostles were taught and trained, so must we be.
Christianity is a life of power, but also one of growth and discipline. When we commit to learning Christ—through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and godly mentors—we begin to walk in the fullness of what He died and rose to give us.
Let that be your pursuit—and your reality.
