Easter Sunday: Eyewitnesses to the Resurrection
Throughout Lent, the 40 days (excluding Sundays) of preparation before Easter. we explored some of the eyewitnesses to the cross, including some of the very first evangelists. Through their examples, we’ve learn more about what it means to be a witness for Christ and his Good News.
In our first installment, we explored Judas, the disciple of Jesus who infamously betrayed him. Then, we turned our attention to Nicodemus, a member of the ruling council to which Judas turned when he betrayed Jesus. We next explored the example of Mary, Jesus’ mother, and then turned to one of Jesus’ inner-circle: Peter. Last week, we heard the story of the two thieves crucified alongside Jesus. In the final installment of our Lenten series last week, we turn toward Jesus’ final moments and examine the stories of the soldiers at the foot of the cross.
This week, we celebrate resurrection and proclaim: Christ is Risen! In this Easter Sunday message, Pastor Ken offers a capstone to all we have learned in these past weeks, examining the eyewitnesses to Christ’s resurrection.
Sermon Reflections:
- What is your source of hope? In his message, pastor Ken suggests that true hope comes from the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What are some unreliable sources of hope?
- How does the story of Jeremy from the sermon illustrate the message of hope? Consider how Jeremy’s action with the empty Easter egg connects to the idea that “the worst thing is not the last thing.”
- What are some ways you can be a “bearer of hope” to others? Acts of service is one way. How can you think of extending hope in your own life?
- How did the expectations of Jesus’ followers change after the resurrection? Consider the contrast between their fear before they knew the tomb was empty and their mission afterward.