Christ’s Necessary Glory (Romans 4:23-25; LD 17)

Reformed & Expository Preaching · Jul 2, 2026 · 36m

Introduction

The Heidelberg Catechism spends some time reminding us that Christ really did suffer. His suffering is not some sort of unnecessary drama. It testifies to our sin, and it atones for our sin. His suffering makes satisfaction for our sin. But suffering and death alone aren't the whole story. If Christ were merely dead and "bounced back" the way a sacrificial animal might return to the herd, the sacrifice would prove insufficient.

On the other side of this discussion is that Christ cannot remain in the grave. If Christ is dead, then we might as well go home and conclude life is…