It's what you believe that matters

As happens each Easter, the mainstream media has been asking the question: Do you have to believe in the literal, bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ in order to call yourself a "Christian"? You hear a similar question at Christmas: Do you have to believe in the literal virgin birth...?"

Dr. Albert Mohler

This used to provide some mild amusement as the news anchors and invited guests showed that they had little knowledge of Christianity and its beliefs. But now it is frustrating as big name Evangelicals are paraded in front of the camera with such answers as, "I don't want to say that anyone MUST believe what I believe," and, "It's not up to me to decide whether or not you're a Christian." No one wants to actually come out and defend the Word of God.

Except for a small group of heroes, one of them being Dr. Al Mohler of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Whose column in Saturday's Washington Post included:

The literal, historical, bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the vindication of Christ's saving work on the cross. The issue is simple—no resurrection, no Christianity. For this reason, belief in the resurrection of Christ is essential in order to be a Christian.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the central miracle of the Christian faith. As the New Testament reveals, the resurrection represents the Father's complete satisfaction in the obedience of the Son—even unto death. Sin and death do not have the final word. Indeed, they are defeated through the saving work of Christ.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead separates Christianity from all mere religion—whatever its form. Christianity without the literal, physical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is merely one religion among many.

Read the full text of Dr. Mohler's excellent article here.