EASTER

 

Sunday 23, Easter Message -  Matt 28:5-6

 

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified.  He is not here; He has risen just as He said.  Come and see the place where He lay.”

 

1.  The doctrine of the Resurrection is the cornerstone of this church and every Christian

      Church.  The angel said, Jesus rose from the dead as He said He would. 

 

a.  The Resurrection is an historical event. 

 

1.  It was recorded by the gospel writers. 

2.  It was recorded by the historian Josephus.

3.  It was confirmed by over 600 witnesses.  Today one witness can put a person in jail

     for life.

 

b.  It was a physical event.

 

1.  Jesus appeared bodily at least seven times.

2.  He invited Thomas to touch Him.  (John 20:27)

3. He actually ate food.  (Luke 24:43)

 

c.  It was a spiritual event.

 

1.  It was a victory over the powers of darkness.  (1 John 3:18).

2.  It was a victory over death. (1 Cor 15:55-57

 

2.  The Significance of the Resurrection. 

 

a.  It promises victory and abundant life.  (John 10:10).

 

1.  Some people worry about the cost of being a Christian.  The benefits out weigh any

     Cost involved.  You have power, eternal life, friendship with God, the Word of God,

     A huge loving family through out the world, Access to the throne room of God, a

     Mediator in spiritual matters, a home awaiting in heaven, angelic help and so much

     More.

2.  People should be more concerned about the cost of not being a Christian.  It means the

     Loss of:

 

a.  Peace.  (John 14:27) 

b.  Joy.  (1 Pet 1:8)

c.  Hope.  1 Pet 1:3)

d.  Favor with God.  (John 3:36)

e.  Eternal life.  (1 John 5:12)

 

3.  Victory is ours in our new victory.  Rom 6:3-11

b.  The Resurrection promises victory over death.  (1 Cor 15:20-23)

 

1.  We have the promise of the rapture.  1 Cor 15:51-58 & 1 Thess 4:16-18)

2.  If we die, we know that it is not the end but the beginning.  (2 Cor 4:14)

 

c.  The Resurrection proved Jesus’ claims:

 

1.  About his person.  (Rom 1:14)

2.  About believing in Him.  (John 11:25)

 

Final Thoughts

 

1.  As we reflect today on Easter.  It is not the rabbit, eggs or any other mythical or

     Manmade idea.  It is the resurrection of our Lord and this weekend is all about the

     Most significant and pivotal event in history. 

2