We cannot experience resurrection power without first experiencing the forgiveness of the cross, but the forgiveness of the cross is only possible because of the resurrection. The resurrection is the crowning moment in the atoning work of Jesus. The Bible, and human experience for that matter, says that the wages of sin is death. At the cross Jesus paid the death penalty for our sins. In His resurrection, He famously declares His victory over death. In His gospel, He extends to us the offer to participate in that victory.