Sermon Outline
“You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here.” (Mark 16:6)
Jesus’ Resurrection Signals the Defeat of Death
- Death is the great enemy now overcome (1 Corinthians 15:26)
- The place of sin in human experience (Genesis 3, esp. vs 15)
- Jesus’ life and death are vindicated by resurrection
- ➯ Faith in Jesus being alive
Jesus’ Resurrection Signals a New World is Beginning
- Jesus as the firstfruits of new creation (1 Corinthians 15:20)
- Resurrection brings hope for all the creation
- New heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1-5)
- ➯ Hope in Jesus beginning something new
Jesus’ Resurrection Signals a New Way of Living
- Because death is defeated…because something new has come…
- Jesus becomes the “pattern” for our life (2 Corinthians 3:18)
- We are invited to live in a new way (2 Corinthians 5:17-21)
- Taking off the old and putting on the new (Ephesians 4:22-24)
- ➯ Love as the mark of new life in Jesus
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- What are some of your most memorable personal or family traditions associated with Easter? If you don’t have any, what comes to your mind when you think about Easter?
- This week we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from death. Today’s message begins with Mark 16:1-8. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through this study, and then read that text aloud.
- This portion of Scripture begins after Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. Why were the women going to Jesus’ tomb?
- While they were concerned about how they would move the stone, suddenly they are surprised by a visitor, who we know from parallel accounts is an angel even though Mark doesn’t name him as such. What does he tell the women?
- How do they respond?
- If you were in their place, how might you respond physically, intellectually, emotionally, or spiritually?
- What is one thing God speaking to you personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith:
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As you consider Christianity, take some time to read through the other Gospel accounts of the resurrection: Matthew 28:1-15; Luke 24:1-12; and John 20:1-18.
Growing in Faith
- What might it look like for you to live daily in light of the resurrection?
- Perhaps you might want to read another resource about Jesus like N. T. Wright, Simply Jesus: A New Vision of Who He Was, What He Did, and Why He Matters
Centered in Faith
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The resurrection story overflows with witnesses telling others about Jesus. Is there one person or family you will specifically pray for or reach out to this month to share your own story about Jesus with them?