Dear COA Family,

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead — His victory over sin, decay and death. Because He lives, we too can have new life in Him. Easter is so significant that it is not just a single day of celebration, but the beginning of a 50-day season of rejoicing.

One of the most wonderful truths of Easter is this: the blessing of Christ is extended to every person. No one is
excluded, regardless of age, background or social status. God’s gift of salvation is offered to all.

The Apostle Paul writes: “Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves” (2 Corinthians 5:14–15).

Why is it important to emphasise the words “all” and “everyone”?

This is because, in some Christian circles, there is a teaching that Jesus did not die for the sins of the whole world, but only for the “elect” — those whom God has predestined to be saved. This view, often referred to as “Limited Atonement,” comes from the Reformed tradition and seeks to emphasise God’s sovereignty in salvation.

The reasoning is that Christ’s sacrifice is so powerful and effective that it must fully accomplish its purpose. Since not everyone is saved, some conclude that Christ must have died only for those who would ultimately receive salvation.

While this view aims to honour God’s sovereignty, we must also pay careful attention to the full witness of Scripture.

The Bible consistently affirms that Christ’s saving work is for all people:
·He is “the Saviour of the world” (1 John 4:14)
·He is “the Saviour of all people” (1 Timothy 4:10)
·He is the one mediator who “gave Himself as a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:6).
These verses remind us that the scope of Christ’s sacrifice is universal in its offer, even though it must be personally received.

This means we can freely and confidently share the good news of Easter with everyone around us: our family, colleagues, classmates and friends. We do not need to wonder who is “chosen” and who is not. That is not our role.

So, this Easter, let us rejoice in the risen Christ and let us share this hope boldly and generously with all.

God bless,
Revd Ian