RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST: 
AFFIRMATION OF LIFE HERE ON EARTH AND IN HEAVEN

Luke 24:6-7 recounts the pivotal moment when the angels announced to the women at the empty tomb, “He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'” These verses encapsulate the essence of the Christian faith  – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The words of the angels unveil the profound implications of this event, exploring its theological significance, its  transformative power, and its enduring relevance for believers today.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as the central tenet of Christian belief, distinguishing Christianity from all other religions. It is the defining moment that validates Jesus’ claims to divinity and authority. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus foretold His death and resurrection, proclaiming Himself to be the Son of God who would conquer sin and death. His resurrection fulfills Old Testament prophecies and confirms His identity as the long-awaited Messiah.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely a historical event but a cosmic victory with far-reaching implications. It marks the decisive defeat of sin, death, and the powers of darkness. Through His resurrection, Jesus triumphs over the forces of evil and inaugurates a new era of redemption and restoration. As the Apostle Paul declares, “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Corinthians 15:22). The resurrection is the lynchpin of God’s plan of salvation, offering forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life to all who believe.

Moreover, the resurrection of Jesus Christ embodies the hope of resurrection for believers. Just as Christ was raised from the dead, so too will believers be raised to newness of life. The resurrection assures believers of their future resurrection and eternal inheritance in the kingdom of God. As Paul writes, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The resurrection is the guarantee of our own resurrection and the fulfillment of God’s promise to restore all things.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ also has transformative implications for the lives of believers. It empowers believers to live with courage, purpose, and hope, knowing that nothing can ultimately defeat them because Christ has conquered death. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work within believers, enabling them to overcome sin, live victoriously, and bear witness to the risen Christ. As Paul writes, “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection” (Philippians 3:10). The resurrection is the source of spiritual renewal and empowerment for believers, equipping them to fulfill their God-given purpose and mission.

Furthermore, the resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as the foundation of Christian faith and the basis of Christian hope. The resurrection validates the truth claims of Christianity and provides assurance to believers that their faith is not in vain. As Paul writes, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith” (1 Corinthians 15:14). The resurrection is the bedrock of Christian faith, inspiring believers to trust in the promises of God and live in joyful obedience to Christ.

The resurrection of Christ significantly empowers those who are mourning, the downtrodden, the insignificant and the socially outcast people who followed him all the way to the Cross. When Jesus said to Mary by the tomb, “do not cling on to me” (John 20:27), Jesus was indirectly telling Mary, do not cry over me and as I am not in the tomb anymore, go and proclaim to others that I am alive, spread the great news, death is conquered by the risen Christ!” The resurrected Christ told his disciples that He is with them till the end of the world (Mat 28:20), and the words of Jesus Christ “fear not, let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:27) should remain a constant reminder that we share the life of the resurrected Christ.

The most painful thing for humans is the death of our loved ones. Not just the death per se, but the consequences of death – total silence of the person, loss of the voices, the love, the care, everything that embodies the person. When the physical existence completely becomes a history, the vacuum and the void become unbearable for those who are alive. Even as the Christian believes that death is overpowered by the resurrected Christ, yet, it takes years together to accept the reality and take the pain of separation. But the beauty of Christ’s resurrection lies in the subsequent healing of our pain with the knowledge that the dead will rise again in glory as we live in Christ even as death does not have power anymore.

In conclusion, the risen Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, the cosmic victory over sin and death, and the source of hope, transformation, and empowerment for believers. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just an event in history but a living reality that continues to shape the lives of believers and the course of human history. Christ is risen, therefore, there is hope for the world, for the risen Lord reigns forevermore and shares our pain and joy.

By Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi 
A/D Church, Public Relations and Resource Mobilisation

Wills Memorial CSI Church, Mangad, Trivandrum: The Bible Sunday was observed and received special offerings at Wills Memorial CSI Church, Mangad, Thirumala, Trivandrum on 17^th March 2024. We thank vicar Rev Israel Thomas, Asst. Vicar Rev Dr Rajeev John, Mr J Mohan Kumar, Church Secretary and Bible Society Thirumala branch Secretary, and entire congregation for their great support for Bible cause. We appreciate the great co-ordination and sacrificial service of Regional Co-ordinator Chev Dr Koshy M George.

 CSI MM Church,Trivandrum:

On 18th February 2024, Bible Sunday was observed and conducted door collection at CSI MM Church, Trivandrum. We thank for the great contribution through door collection. We thank the great support of vicar Rev. Dr L E Sahanom, Rev Dr R Gnanadas, Mr Premdad Justus congregation President, and entire congregation for their great support for Bible cause. We appreciate the co-ordination and grea commitment of the Regional Co-ordinator Chev Dr Koshy M George. We also thank Bible society leaders at MM Church, Mr. Immanual Henry, Mr. Sajan, Mrs. Raichel Joseph, Mrs. Girley, Mrs. Sajitha and others for the participation.

Bible Conventions, Exhibitions Cum Sales at Maramon Convention:

The Kerala Auxiliary Bible Stall & new Bibles Release happened at the world famous One week Maramon Convention on 11^th to 18^th Feb. 2024. The Bible Society of India publication, new variety Bibles printed at Amity Press was released at the inaugural day of the 129th Maramon Convention by Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan (Auxiliary Committee Member). Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Paulos Episcopa (BSI Executive Committee Member & Working Committee Member), Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Barnabas Suffragan Metropolitan (Auxiliary former President), Very Rev. K. Y. Jacob (BSI Executive Committee Alternate Member& Auxiliary Committee Member), Rev. Abey T. Mammen (Sabha Secretary, Mar Thoma Church), Rev. Abey K. Joshua (General Secretary, Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association), Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal (Auxiliary Secretary), Clergies and lay members were present during the release function. The Auxiliary President Most Rev Dr Yuhanon Mar Chrysostomos Metropolitan attended the Convention and visited Bible stall. At the convention venue, the Bible Stall was opened for one week at the vast sand bed of the Pamba river with different new varieties of imported & Indian print Bibles. During this one week, many clergies, pastors, church leaders, branch members and believers visited the Bible Stall and acquired Bibles of their choices.

 CSI East Kerala Diocesan Convention, 4^th to 11^th Feb. 2024:  The Auxiliary Secretary attended CSI East Kerala Diocesan Convention on 10^th February 2024, and shared the Word of God and about the ministries of Bible Society. The BSI Kerala Auxiliary is grateful for the support and encouragement to the BSI Ministry by the CSI Kerala Diocese and truly thankful to the Diocesan leadership.

 Assemblies of God Malayalam District Council Convention, 29^th Jan. to 4^th Feb. 2024:  On 1^st February 2024, the Auxiliary Secretary attended the Annual General Convention of the Assemblies of God Malayalam District Council. He shared from the Word and updated about the ministry of Bible Society.  It was a historical moment as the Assembly handed over their Bible Sunday donation collected from all their churches along with the collections during the General Convention. And it was an added foot step of AG church along with Mar Thoma, CSI and St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, from 2023 onwards in observing Bible Sunday systemically in all their churches.

We thank the great support and initiative of Rev. T. J. Samuel, Superintendent; Rev. Dr. Issac V. Mathew, Assistant Superintendent & former Auxiliary committee member; Rev. Thomas Philip, District Secretary; Rev. P. K. Jose, District Treasurer; Dr Santhosh John, Auxiliary committee member. We express our gratitude to Zonal Directors, Presbyters, Pastors and all the congregations for their love and support for the Bible Cause.

63^rd Annual General Convention of St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India: The Auxiliary Secretary shared from the Word and about the ministries of Bible Society during the Annual Convention of STECI at Thiruvalla. The Church handed over the Bible Sunday donation collected from all their churches during the General Convention. We are thankful to the presiding Bishop Most Rev Dr Thomas Abraham, former Auxiliary committee member; Rt. Rev Dr Abraham Chacko, Auxiliary committee member; Retired Bishops, Rev Abraham George, General Secretary; Rev P. T. Mathew, Treasurer; Church officials, clergies, church workers, congregation members far and near for the great support. Our heartfelt thanks for arranging a special session in the final day of the convention for Bible Society of India.

58th Session of CSI Madhya Kerala Diocesan Convention 2024: On the 6^th day of the 58th Session of CSI Madhya Kerala Diocesan Convention 2024 at Baker compound, the Auxiliary secretary shared God’s Word and about BSI ministry. We thank the great support of Rt Rev Malayil Sabu Koshy Cherian Bishop, Diocesan Office Bearers, Clergies, Church workers and members of the church.

NEWS FROM THE ANDHRA PRADESH AUXILIARY:

The BIble Society of India Andhra Pradesh Auxiliary organised a Women Leader’s Conference on the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8th March, 2024 at Bible House in Guntur. Rev. Dr. Leelavathi Vemuri, BSI President, Mrs. K. Asha Kiran Paradesi Babu, Chairperson, Women’s Wing, AELC and Sis. Dr. Varginia Rajakumari, Biblical Scholar, and Mrs. K. Shilpa Vikram led the sessions. Nearly 150 women delegates representing BSI Branches across the state participated in the conference.

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The Case of the Daughters of Zelophehad:
A Tribute to Women’s Rights in Numbers 27:1-11 

International Women’s Day is observed every year on March 8th. It offers a chance to contemplate the advancements achieved, to push for change, and to pay tribute to the acts of bravery and perseverance shown by ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in the history of their nations and communities.

The theme for the 2024 celebration is “Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment.” This theme is in line with the main focus of the UN 68th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 68) and seeks to investigate pathways to enhance economic inclusion for women and girls worldwide.

In the ancient times of the Israelites, inheritance was a crucial matter, determining not just property ownership but also social standing and security for future generations. The story of the daughters of Zelophehad, found in the book of Numbers, chapter 27, verses 1 to 11, stands out as a significant narrative that highlights the value of justice, equality, and the empowerment of women in the biblical tradition. The passage begins with the daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—approaching Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the entire assembly at the entrance of the Tabernacle. Their father, Zelophehad, had died in the wilderness, and he had no sons to inherit his possessions. In a society where inheritance typically passed from father to son, this presented a dilemma for the daughters. They stood before the assembly to present their case:

“Our father died in the wilderness. He was not among Korah’s followers, who banded together against the Lord, but he died for his own sin and left no sons. Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives.” (Numbers 27:3-4)

Their request was not merely a plea for personal gain but a demand for justice and fairness. They sought to ensure that their father’s name and legacy would not be erased simply because he had no male heirs. This act of boldness in approaching the highest authority figures of their community reflects the courage and determination of these women. Moses, known for his role as the lawgiver and mediator between God and the Israelites, took their case before the Lord. The response he received affirmed the righteousness of the daughters’ request:

“What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives and give their father’s inheritance to them.” (Numbers 27:7)

God, through Moses, established a new precedent in inheritance laws. The daughters of Zelophehad were to receive their father’s inheritance, setting a legal standard that ensured the preservation of family heritage through daughters when no sons were present. This decision not only addressed the specific case of Zelophehad’s daughters but also established a broader principle of justice and equity within Israelite society. The significance of this passage goes beyond its legal implications. It challenges traditional notions of inheritance, elevating the status of women as rightful heirs and ensuring their economic security within their families. It stands as a testament to the recognition of women’s rights and their active participation in the shaping of societal norms.

Moreover, the story of the daughters of Zelophehad illustrates the importance of speaking up against injustice. These women did not passively accept their fate but boldly stepped forward to demand what was rightfully theirs. In doing so, they contributed to the development of a more just and inclusive community. As we reflect on this passage today, it serves as a reminder of the enduring value of justice, equality, and the empowerment of all members of society, regardless of gender. The daughters of Zelophehad, through their courage and conviction, have left an indelible mark on the biblical narrative, inspiring generations to come with their example of standing up for what is right.

In the end, the story of the daughters of Zelophehad is not just a legal case in ancient Israel; it is a timeless lesson in the pursuit of justice and the recognition of the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender or social status. Furthermore, an intriguing incident recorded in Luke 10:38-42, during the ministry of Jesus, prompts reflection on the denial of women’s rights to pursue theological studies in our current context. Jesus, as a Rabbi and Jewish Teacher, challenged societal norms by opening the doors of ministry to women, who were often restricted from public participation. In this context, Jesus affirmed Mary’s autonomy and validated a woman’s right to choose study over traditional domestic roles. He demonstrated that women should not be confined to the kitchen but should have the freedom to pursue intellectual and spiritual endeavors.

There are many biblical passages with an example of how women, through faith, can courageously raise their voices and address their circumstances, ultimately becoming agents of change. On the other hand, there are many women who through their prayer and faith battle their struggle silently becoming the role model of faith to our present generation. In Numbers 27:1-11, these women’s courageous act of faith established a new precedent, a new law. It paved the way for a whole new realm of possibilities. In our time, we need modern-day daughters of Zelophehad—women who are willing to take bold steps of faith to illuminate new understandings about the treatment of women.

Faith is a vital component. Just as in any era, faith remains the foundation of blessings. Nothing from God enters one’s life except through the channel of faith. Every blessing, achievement, or victory truly becomes one’s own only when claimed through faith. Therefore, faith—both in the era of our scripture passage and in our present age—is the key to receiving God’s blessings. Women must boldly speak about their experiences, with faith, challenging the culture of silence and endurance. Faith inherently challenges traditions, calling us to embrace new directions against universally accepted norms and traditional beliefs. To live by faith means making choices that leads us away from the commonly accepted paths. Women must have the faith to challenge cultural norms that oppress them. Remaining silent is tantamount to endorsing injustice. Jesus affirmed in Matthew 17:20-21, even a small amount of faith, like a mustard seed, can move mountains, uproot trees, and bring about remarkable change. When we begin to exercise faith, we inspire others to do the same. God calls us to lead lives filled with faith and action. This is how God transforms human history.

Sushana Pramanik
Translation Advisor, The Bible Society of India

Scripture Engagement Program Implemented in BSI, Andaman and Nicobar Islands during January 21 to February 4, 2024.

Free Scripture distributions were held in five  different churches such as St. Mary Orthodox Church  Mohanpura, Port Blair  and Methodist church Bambooflat on 21 st January- 2024, Lugyi Memorial Karen Baptist Church Webi, Mayabunder and CSI church shivpur North and  Middle Andaman on 28^th January, 2024 and finally in Holy Trinity Methodist Church on 4^th February, 2024.

Church Pastors and Auxiliary Sceretary engaged the communities by preaching the Word of God and sharing the manifold ministry of the BSI.  All the pastors and congregations personally are very thankful to BSI for reaching out to the needy with free distributions of the Bibles in various languages. The beneficiaries were so thrilled and excited  while receiving the Scriptures and emotionally with teary eyes thanked God for the kind of ministry Bible society is doing. They were full of gratitude and promised to support our ministry in whatever way they can with prayers. We thank God and pray for all beneficiaries that God will continue to talk to them, abide with them and encourage them to enable them to navigate their lives in the midst of various challenges. The BSI – ANIs is grateful to our sponsors and the Central office for this journey of faith and support in times of need.

KERALA AUXILIARY

Scripture Engagement Programme for Poor Widows and Suffering Women

The Church, Public Relations & Resource Mobilization Department of the Bible Society of India initiated the Project for Women as part of the Scripture Engagement Programme. The Kerala Auxiliary conducted various Scripture Engagement programs in different parts of Kerala and distributed Bibles free of cost to the persons coming under the Project during December 25, 2023 to February 18, 2024.

Through BSI Kozhencherry Branch Bibles were distributed to the inmates of Mahathma JanaSevana Kendram, Kozhencherry. The light and life- giving Word of God will impart hope and meaning to their gloomy world. We thank God for the leadership and support of Rev Thomas Mathew (Branch President), Mr. Varghese Jacob (Regional Co-ordinator), Mr. Sabu P. Mathew (Branch Secretary) and Branch members for arranging the meeting. Rev Yesudas Thomas, pastors and lay members graced the meeting with their presence.

Under the auspices of BSI Edayaranmula Branch, visits were made to Shanthitheeram Old age Home at Chengannur and Mar Osthathios Gloriya Bhavan (Home for Women in Distress), Nellimala, Pathanamthitta. We had distributed Bibles to the women who are mentally and emotionally challenged. The inmates were happy in receiving the Bibles and praised God for this precious gift during Christmas season as their Christmas gift.  

BSI Elappara Branch, Idukki region conducted a program at St. Stephen’s CSI Church, Glenmary. The women members who are Estate labourers and financially challenged with their children received Bibles with great joy and gratitude in their hearts to God. The Vicar, Church worker and members of the Church appreciated the efforts of the Bible Society of India for this provision. 

On request from the beneficiaries, the Auxiliary distributed Bibles to different Branches and needy individuals of other faiths. The Bibles were distributed to various persons on request according to the need from the following Churches: IPC Horeb Worship Centre, Valara, Adimali, Church of the True Gospel, Sulthan Bathery, TPM Church, Ayoor, Kollam & CSI Kanyamala Church, Idukki. Also, Bible distributions were done to the following Branches according to the need based on their request: BSI Kadampanad Branch, BSI Chengannur Branch, BSI Perunkadavila Branch & BSI Kasaragod Branch. The beneficiaries were longing to receive the Word of God for their own, as the deer pants for the streams of water. We pray and hope that the seeds sown may produce a good harvest of souls.

The Kerala auxiliary is greatly thankful to the General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo, and the Associate Director (CPRRM), Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi for their leadership and guidance in executing the Project. Through this project, we touched the lives of the people who are financially, emotionally, mentally challenged and needy persons, having a thirst for the Word of God. We praise & thank Almighty God for the successful accomplishment of this project by distributing God’s Word and pray that many lives will be touched and transformed by the healing and transforming power of the Word of God. Let the Word be a solace and hope in their darkest hours of journey.

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