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A Recap from Sunday’s Sermon

Preaching Text: John 20:1-18

The existence of the Church (universal) is the strongest evidence for the resurrection of Jesus.  It’s global, 2000 years old, and the largest religion - a billion strong. When persecuted the Church grows. When compromised, revival happens.  Jesus himself promised to build it.  If the resurrection was false, then how does one account for the Church? If it’s false, then nothing that Jesus said matters. But if it’s true, then all that Jesus taught is paramount. It’s also fair to expect to see Jesus act in our world since he is alive.  What do you believe about the resurrection? 

Jesus’ resurrection is true and transforms our relationship with God.   

In addition to the Church, there is other evidence that Jesus rose.

The empty tomb perplexed Mary, the women, and Peter and John.  They all went there with no expectations of a resurrection. They found the grave clothes, but no body. The resurrection best explains this and the other evidence.

The visible Lord appeared first to Mary alone. She didn’t recognize him.  He asked her whom she was seeking, a relevant question for us all. She was the first of many eye witnesses who saw Jesus in his resurrected body.  Read 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 for a significant list of other eye witnesses.

The transformed followers of Jesus also give proof of his resurrection. Mary was not to cling to Jesus because he was returning to the Father. This changed his relationship to his followers. Jesus now refers to the Apostles as “brothers” rather than servants or friends.  Peter, John and the others also shed their fears and became bold witnesses for Jesus in the face of death.  The resurrection changed them.

Taking It Home: Why might someone consider the resurrection as being only mildly important?