Those who die ‘in the Lord’ can glory in victory over death. “O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? Death is swallowed up in victory.” (1 Cor. 15:55) Those who die ‘in the Lord’ will be raised to receive the heavenly reward. Victory over death comes ‘only’ to those who die ‘in the Lord’. The sting of death is sin!

What is the urgent proclamation? The answer is found in the charge of Jesus to his apostles. “Go teach all nations, baptizing them i the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost; teach them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” (Matt. 28:19-20)

In the closing of the 1st Corinthian letter Paul said, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Cor. 16:13 NKJ) How complete was this exhortation; how thoroughly suited to Christians of every era!