Jesus died and rose again for the living and the dead.

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 4: 14

The above verses refers to the concerns of the believers in Thessalonica. There was uncertainty about the fate of those believers who died before the return of Christ. In the course of time, some of the members of the congregation had died and it was thought that the deceased would not share in the salvation that would be granted to those believers who took part in Christ's return. Paul challenges this notion and points out that Jesus died and rose from the dead, and that this will also be the case for those who will die before the return of Christ.

What does the resurrection of Jesus mean for us?

Those who believe in Christ are incorporated into the same sequence of events experienced by the man Jesus. This is why Jesus is also described as the "firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15: 20). He was the first to experience the resurrection, thus paving the way for everyone who follows Jesus and has received the sacraments in faith to be able to walk the same path.

Resurrection is more than the immortality of the soul. It is not only part of the person but the entirety of the human being as body, soul, and spirit that is to resurrect. And we will not resurrect with a perishable shell, but with a glorious body, the resurrection body, with which Jesus Christ has been clothed since His resurrection (Philippians 3: 21). The corruptible body will be transformed into an incorruptible and perfect body. The resurrection body is necessary for perfect and eternal fellowship with God.

Dispensation of the sacraments and intercession for the departed

If the dead and living alike will participate equally in Christ's return to take home His bridal congregation, then this implies that the departed too must receive those divine gifts that are necessary for salvation. They too can experience the rebirth out of water and the Spirit, and their faith is also strengthened by worthily partaking of Holy Communion.

When Christ returns they too will receive a resurrection body. Next Sunday, 5th July 2026, we will celebrate the second divine service for the departed this year. We firmly believe in the path of salvation laid down by Jesus and pray for the departed that God may touch their hearts and move them to follow Him and receive the sacraments for salvation. Thanks to Jesus Christ, the firstfruits of the resurrection, the way is open for all human beings—regardless of when they lived on earth—to enter the fellowship of those who await His return along with us, the living.

Excerpts from Divine Service Guide (India) | June 2026