Hundreds of believers gathered at Khuochiezie (Local Ground), Kohima to celebrate the Resurrection Sunday Sunrise Service organised by the Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship (KBPF).
The solemn occasion, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, was highlighted by a reflective sermon delivered by Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, general secretary of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), under the theme “From Grave to Glory.”
In his message, Rev. Dr. Pongener underscored the enduring power and centrality of the resurrection in the Christian faith, drawing on scriptural references from Isaiah 53:10–11 and Mark 16:1–8. He described Isaiah 53 as a prophetic foretelling of Christ’s suffering, death, and implied resurrection—despite the term “resurrection” not being explicitly mentioned.
Turning to the Gospel of Mark, he spoke of the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome. He emphasized the angel’s declaration: “Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified, has risen! He is not here.” This moment, he said, remains one of the foundational truths of the Christian faith.
While affirming the resurrection as historically and spiritually significant, Rev. Dr. Pongener acknowledged ongoing skepticism.
He pointed out that doubts often stem from intellectual, emotional, cultural, or spiritual barriers. Nonetheless, he asserted that the Bible stands as the ultimate and trustworthy source affirming the reality of Christ’s resurrection.
“The resurrection does not fear honest questions or sincere seekers,” he remarked, urging believers to embrace it not merely as a historical event but as a personal invitation to encounter the living Christ.
Delving into cultural perspectives of the grave during Jesus’ time, he explained that the Hebrew concept of Sheol symbolized finality, separation, and despair—a realm cut off from life. Visiting a tomb was considered defiling and represented utter hopelessness.
Drawing parallels to present-day struggles such as broken relationships, illness, job loss, and emotional turmoil, he described these as modern “grave” experiences that can leave individuals feeling lost and defeated.
“But Easter changes that narrative,” he said. “The tomb became the very site where hope was declared.” He emphasized that the resurrection redefines the grave—from a symbol of despair to a testimony of victory. Just as Christ rose from the tomb, believers too are called to rise from their personal tombs of guilt, depression, addiction, and loss.
He concluded by encouraging the congregation to “shake off the grave clothes” and move forward with renewed faith, hope, and strength in the power of the risen Christ.
Earlier, the program began with an invocation by Rev. Iringtie Kauring, Pastor of Zeme Baptist Church Kohima. Bible readings were led by Wongtokiu of Yimkhiung Baptist Church (Old Testament) and Piokali Sema, associate pastor (CED) of Sumi Baptist Church Kohima (New Testament).
Musical offerings included choral presentations by the Kohima Lotha Baptist Church and Khedi Baptist Church, enriching the spiritual atmosphere of the gathering.