Archeologists made a fascinating discovery in 1940 while digging through ancient manuscripts in an Egyptian monastery. Hidden among these forgotten parchments was a sermon dating to AD 160-170. Outside of the New Testament, it’s the oldest Easter homily on record. The sermon was delivered by Melito of Sardis (died 180). The book of Revelation is addressed to seven cities, including Sardis, where Melito originated. The opening sentences of his sermon indicate the Old Testament story of Passover has just been read in worship from Exodus 12. Melio likens Jesus’ sacrifice to the Passover lamb and then declares, “Jesus was sacrificed to God but was resurrected as God.” One sentence from his sermon leaps off the page, “He killed death which had put man to death.” His Easter message corrects a common misconception people have about the resurrection. We tend to regard Easter as the final chapter of Jesus’ ministry, sort of like receiving a gold watch upon retirement. Melito’s sermon makes plain that Jesus’ resurrection is not the end but opens a whole new epic in salvation history. If Jesus has been raised from the dead, it means he is alive. And if he’s alive, there is no telling where he might show up next–maybe in your life today. His sermon closes with a gracious invitation. Substitute your name in his invite to the “families of men” and receive it in prayer as God’s word to you. I am your forgiveness…I am your salvation…I am the lamb slain for you…I am your life, your light and your king…I will raise you up:
Melito of Sardis
Come then, all you families of men defiled by sin, receive the forgiveness of sins. For it is I who am your forgiveness, the Pasch [Passover] of your salvation, the lamb slain for you; it is I who am your ransom, your life, your resurrection, your light, your salvation, your king. I am bringing you to the heights of heaven. I will show you the Father who is from all eternity. I will raise you up with my right hand.
Rev. Dr. Peter James served 42 years as the senior of Vienna Presbyterian Church in Vienna, VA — 21 years in the 20th century and 21 years in the 21st century. He retired in 2021 and now serves as Pastor-in-Residence at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
Even as a pastor, prayer came slowly to Pete. Read Pete’s story.