CLAY CENTER – The Gutenberg Printing Press was invented around 1440, having a huge impact on learning, communications and much more worldwide. The United States Constitution was adopted Sept. 17, 1787, establishing a new form of government the world had never witnessed before. These are two significant events in world history, but are they the greatest? Here are my top two: 1) The incarnation of Jesus of Nazareth. 2) The resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. Let me explain.
The incarnation of Jesus occurred about 5 B.C. The world still celebrates this annually through the Christmas holiday. We remember how Jesus left heaven and came to earth in the form of a baby. We remember the day when God clothed Himself in human flesh becoming like one of us. It is the recognition of Jesus as fully God and fully man and the declaration of Jesus’ deity.
The resurrection of Jesus occurred about A.D. 33. The world still celebrates this annually through the Easter holiday. We remember when Jesus suffered, died by crucifixion, was buried and after three days rose again and is still alive 2,000 years later. Most importantly, it is the confirmation of Jesus’ deity.
Why are these two historic events the greatest? Because they declared to the world in Jesus’ own words, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), which has become a beacon of hope for mankind across all culture and time.
Jesus’ deity and proof of it declared He is the way. All mankind is searching to worship something in an attempt to navigate through this world. Jesus proved He is worthy of our worship.
Jesus’ deity and proof of it declared He is the truth. All of us long for the truth, to know what is right and wrong and how to live a life free from guilt and shame. Jesus proved He is the standard for truth balancing the scales of justice and raising the flag of morality in an evil world.  
Jesus’ Deity and proof of it declared He is the life. All of us want the intangible things that money, power, success and possessions can never buy – life, real life. Jesus proved He is the source and giver of real and lasting life.  
Experience history’s two greatest events. Make them yours by trusting in Jesus to change you into a new person by simply calling upon Him in faith.  May Christ be your hope for today.  
 
Clint Decker is President & Evangelist with Great Awakenings Inc. Since 1990, he has reached over two million people with his message of hope. Contact him at cdecker@greatawakenings.org or call toll free 877-433-3220.