EASTER SERMONS – Mircheal Jones

Christ appeared no less than 16 times after His Resurrection. 5 times on Easter Sunday, 6 times between then and the Ascension, and 5 times between Pentecost and the completion of the Bible:

1. To Mary Magdalene– Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils (Mark 16:9).

2. To the Other Women– And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me (Matt 28:9-10).

3. To Peter alone– Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon (Luke 24:34) And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: (1 Corinthians 15:5).

4. To 2 Disciples on the road to Emmaus – After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country. And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them (Mark 16:12 13).

5. To the 10 Disciples– Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen (Mark 16:14).

6. To the 11 Disciples a week later – And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:26 29).

7. To the 7 Disciples by the sea of Galilee – John 21:1-23

8. To 500 at once– After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:6).

9. To James, the Lord’s brother– After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles (1 Corinthians 15:7).

10. To the 11 on mountain in Galilee (Great Commission)- Matt 28:16-20

11. To the 11 on the Mt of Olives before Ascension– Acts 1:3-12

12. To Stephen before his death – But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, (Acts 7:55)

13. To Paul on the Road to Damascus– Acts 9:3-6 (Acts 26:15 17- And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee

14. To Paul in the Temple– Acts 22:17-21

15. To Paul in Prison in Caesarea– And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome (Acts 23:11).

16. To John on the Isle of Patmos – Rev 1:12

BODY OF BELIEF JOHN 20:24-29

But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:24-29).

Someone asked me recently if the Resurrected Body of Christ was a “real body”. That is way beyond the pay grade of an uneducated country boy from Crow Corner, SC but here are some things we know:

There was not a body in the tomb on Resurrection Day and Christ appeared in bodily form no less than 16 times after His Resurrection. 5 times on Easter Sunday, 6 times between then and the Ascension, and 5 times between Pentecost and the completion of the Bible.

Thomas was told to put his finger and hand into the wounds of the body of Christ-[Interesting side note: Paul said “that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption” (1 Corinthians 15:50) and God said “The life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul” (Leviticus 17:11). Jesus shed His Blood on the Cross for our sins so there was no blood dripping from His wounds onto the floor when He met with the Disciples].

It is important to note that Paul said, “There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” and “There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another” (1 Corinthians 15:44, 40).

It is true that the flesh as we know it returns to the ground at death but the Spiritual part of us has some sort of body in either Hell (Rich man in hell was tormented and wanted a drop of water for his tongue) or Heaven (When people on earth saw people either IN Heaven or FROM Heaven they always saw a body- Rich man saw Lazarus, Disciples saw Moses and Elias talking with Christ on Mount of Transfiguration (Matt 17:1-8), …

We await our Resurrected Body: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17).

These Resurrected bodies will be our permanent abode: And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2).

Now, back to the Message! In the Spiritual Warfare that Christians wage every day it is important to remember several Principles:

1. If Satan cannot defeat you then he will attempt to defeat someone whose defeat will defeat you. If Thomas would have continued in disbelief it would have split the disciples, generated tremendous harmful “fake news” for the Pharisees and Sadducees, and possibly prevented the Gospel from reaching the 1.4 billion people in India (Thomas is the one who carried the Gospel to India).

2. Satan will support your Doubts but demand proof for your Faith. Gossip spreads like wildfire but the Gospel crawls on the back of a turtle or as one man said it, “A Lie Can Travel Halfway around the World While the Truth Is Putting On Its Shoes”. Satan supports your Doubts because:

A) Doubt limits God’s ability to work: And Jesus did not many mighty works there because of His Hometown people’s unbelief (Matthew 13:58).

B) Believing a Lie keeps you in Satan’s Prison of doubt and despair. Jesus said, Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).

Why is this important to us today? Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).

1> If Christ did not rise from the dead then Christianity is a sham: if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not

2> If Christ did not rise from the dead then God did not accept His sacrifice for our sins: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.

3> If Christ did not rise from the dead then we have no hope of seeing our loved ones after death: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished

4> Believing in the Power of God over Death is the only way to Enjoy Life: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.

In a day when people are sacred of dying from a virus they cannot see it is important that:

1. We believe in the Resurrection of Christ EVEN IF WE CANNOT SEE HIS RESURRECTED BODY.

2. We TRUST THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD EVEN IF WE CANNOT UNDERSTAND GOD’S WAYS.

3. We realize THE IMPACT OUR FAITH HAS ON THOSE AROUND US.

So we answer this question by allowing the Apostle Paul to ask, and answer, this question: But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:35-44).

So Rejoice in this Good News: I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men (John 1:14 “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us”), and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God (Rev21:3). Glory!

CROSS ROAD CHRIST

Rev. Mike Jones

Suppose I come to an intersection where the road I am traveling branches off in two different directions. I have been warned that following one of these roads will allow me to reach my desired destination of joy and happiness but following the other road will lead to troubles and trials and finally end up in a bog of despair from which there is no escape.

Both roads look the same so I have no clue as to which one to take. Suddenly I see two men sitting on a bench under a tree so I approach them to see if they can give me directions. As I get closer I notice that one of the men is alive and well but the other is simply a corpse sitting on a bench!

Which one of these men do you think I should consult about directions in this important life decision? Obviously, the answer is the man who is alive and can actually help me.

Many religious leaders have come into this world. Some of them have been extremely smart and have left great teachings about how to deal with life and its problems. But this fork in the road is not just about living in this life; it is about eternity and what lies beyond.

Only one religious leader has journeyed through the valley of death and come back alive to give me directions. His name is Jesus and He is the one I plan to listen to about which road I need to take.

EASTER SYMBOLS Matt 27:45 54

We talked Wednesday Night about why we have Spring House Cleaning (Clean out the Leaven), Hide Easter Eggs (New Birth and New life), and wear new clothes to Church (New Creature in Christ). Today I’d like to look at some of the “lesser” known symbols of this season and draw from them some very important Spiritual lessons. They show us how the Cross dealt with Sin, Self, and Satan.

FIRST SYMBOL: The 3 Hours of darkness while Jesus was on the cross MAT 27:45 46 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, Lama Sabachthani? That is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

Jesus had been hanging on the cross since about 9am. For 3 hours there was much activity around that cruel cross- Jesus had forgiven the thief on the cross beside Him, had entrusted the care of His mother to John, had declared his thirst, the Priest had mocked Him, the crowd had reviled Him, and the soldiers had gambled for His robe. Now, suddenly, at the Noonday hour when the sun was at its peak the world was plunged into darkness. Some have suggested that this was an eclipse but it was during full moon and that makes an eclipse impossible; and an eclipse has never lasted for 3 hours!!

The Gospels pass by this 3 hours of time as if nothing happened during it and possibly very little did happen on this earth during that period of darkness. But during this time the Perfect Precious Son of God accepted the full cup of the darkness of Sin. What agony He must have gone thru during these hours of silent suffering until at the end of the time He cried with all of His strength, “My God, My God, Why hast thou forsaken me?”.

He who is the “Light of the World” accepted the darkness of sin that I might be set free from sin’s punishment and power. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil John 3:19.

SECOND SYMBOL: The Rending of the Veil MAT 27:50-51 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; The temple had been designed by God to show the Separation caused by Sin. When you entered the temple you first came to the Brazen Altar where you had to offer a blood sacrifice for sin. Upon leaving there you came to the Laver where you washed from the defilement of sin. This was all the “common” people saw. The Priest would then go into the Holy Place where the Table of Shewbread (Christ the Bread of Life), The Candlestand (Christ the light of the World), and the Altar of Incense (representing our daily prayers) were found. But even the Priest had to stop here.

Only the High Priest was allowed to enter into the Holy of holies and that but once a year; to offer for the sins of the people. (It was this Holy of Holies where the Glory of God dwelt for many years. Thus this was a place of direct communion with God).When Jesus passed thru the darkness and could cry, “It is finished” there was no longer anything to separate God and man and the way to God was made available to ALL. [Heb 10:19 20 Having therefore, brethern, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil,..

(It’s interesting to note that the veil was split around 3pm, the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice. This enabled the Priest to see that it was split from top to bottom. Had it been done earlier noone would have seen it because the Holy Place would have been empty).

THIRD SYMBOL: The earthquake that opened Graves MAT 27:50 53 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. This earthquake did not knock down the crosses and only opened certain graves!! Note that only the saints came forth out of the grave.

There are 6 recorded instances of people being “Revived” from the dead in Scripture: (1) The son of the widow of Sarepta (I Kings 17), (2) The Shunammite’s son (II Kings 4), (3) The man raise when he touched the bones of Elisha (II KIngs 13), (4) The daughter of Jairus (Matt 9), (5) The Son of the Widow of Nain (Luke 7), and (6) Lazarus (John 11). Each of these was raised from the dead but each had to die again.

When Christ came forth from the Grave He was RESURRECTED, meaning He had a new body and he would never die again. There are some that say that these bodies that came forth after Christ’s resurrection and were seen in Jerusalem were simply REVIVED and had to die again. Yet there is ample evidence to believe that these saints ascended with Christ when he returned to Heaven. ACT 1:11 Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. We do know that when Jesus returns again in a visible form that He will have Saints with Him, also in the Old Testament Type of the Resurrection; The Wave sheaf, is represented the idea of a “single grain of corn” falling into the ground but an entire sheaf coming forth.

TEACHING FOR US: Jesus has destroyed the power of death; the grave can no longer hold a child of God. The Resurrection is not a Doctrine we believe but a fact we know that allows us to sing, O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to god, which giveth us the victory through our lord Jesus Christ (I Cor 15:55 57). We’re living on the Victory Side!!

For the unsaved it should show you more clearly than ever that you will face God some day. Death is not all, there is a Judgment to come and a Punishment in the lake of fire awaiting you. Come to Christ today.

MAT 27:54 Now when the Centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, truly this was the Son of God. YOU have a choice today: You can observe all that Jesus has done for you and ignore it. Or you can bow before Him and acknowledge Him as the Son of God and Savior of your soul today.

LAST WEEK LESSONS

If you KNEW you were going to die this week what would you do? The Bible gives us more details about the last week of Jesus than about any other time in His life. The lessons displayed and taught are a vital part of God’s instructions for our life; and death!

SUNDAY: Entrance into the city on an Ass with Palms and Praise (First time meek and lowly on ass, second time on white horse as conqueror. How will you receive Him?)

Cast out Money changers and healed diseased Matt 21:12 (Just like beginning of His ministry).

Greeks seek audience, God speaks (John 12:20-33) Back to Bethany (Lazarus Home?- John 12:1).

MONDAY: On the way to Jerusalem He cursed Fruitless Fig Tree (Mark 11:12-14. Example of Jews who looked like something but had no fruit. He called the religious leaders “Unmarked graves” that men walk on and do not know they are there. They live and die and made no difference!)

TUESDAY: Fit tree withered, the power of Faith

Religious leaders challenge Christ’s Authority, Parable of 2 sons (Which obeyed?), wicked husbandman (sharecropper) who wanted it all, and Marriage feast (excuses and no wedding gown)

Question of tribute to Caesar- render what is his to him (Spies sent to condemn Luke 20:20)

Sadducees question Resurrection, wife of 7 brethren (Matt 22:23-33)

Pharisees ask greatest Commandment: Love God first and Neighbor as self (Matt 22:34-40)

Jesus pronounced woe on Scribes and Pharisees (House left to them desolate) (Matt 23:33-39)

Recognition of Widow’s Mite Gift (Luke 21:1-4)

Jesus tells the future- Matt 24, 25

Jesus is anointed for burial at feast at Simon the Leper’s home [Judas mad about “waste” allows Satan to enter (Luke 22:3-6) and agrees to betray Jesus at convenient time (Matt 26:6-16)].

WEDNESDAY: Silent Wednesday

THURSDAY: Preparation for Passover (Upper Room). Celebration of Passover, Lord’s Supper, Feet washing [Jesus reveals betrayer is among them. Disciples argue about who is greatest. Peter is told Satan desired him- Luke 22]. The walking sayings of John 14-17: Promise of Place, Power, Prayer.

FRIDAY: (Before Dawn) The agony of Prayer in the Garden

The Arrest (The Disciples flee). Peter and John follow Christ to High Priest’s Palace where Christ is on trial. No witnesses can be found but Christ himself gives enough evidence to allow them to condemn Him. (Peter also on “trial” but fails by denying Christ 3 times).

Christ is taken to Pilate’s Hall (Judas tries to return 30 pieces of silver (He confessed to Priest; Peter confessed to God!)

Pilate finds no fault in Christ and sent Him to Herod who has him beaten and mocked (Christ says nothing at all to Herod).

Christ is returned to Pilate who tries unsuccessfully to have him released. Finally, despite the advice of his wife and his own conscience, Pilate has Christ beaten, mocked, a crown of thorns put on him and crucified while Barnabas the murder is released by the request of the people. (Simon of Cyrene is compelled to bear the cross; it does not say Christ fell with the Cross!) Christ tells the women of Jerusalem to weep for themselves because of the coming judgment.

(Around 9:00am) Jesus is Crucified between 2 thieves

1. Father, Forgive them for they know not what they do. Soldiers part his garments, Jews mock,

2. (Thief repents) Today shalt thou be with me in Paradise

3. Woman behold thy Son (John), Behold thy mother

4. (Darkness from noon til 3pm) My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?

5. I thirst (Fulfill Scriptures)

6. It is finished

7. Father into thy hands I commend my Spirit (Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father John 10:17-18).

Veil in temple rent in two, graves of saints opened (Earthquake after veil, before graves open)

Buried by Joseph and Nicodemus after requesting body from Pilate.

You have an expiration date: LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am (Psalms 39:4).

Your “Story” will be told by someone; will you like what they say? For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale that is told (Psalms 90:9).

LIVING IN THE LIGHT OF THE RESURRECTION

There is probably not a person here today that does not know that Jesus rose from the grave (And most of you claim to believe it!). It’s a marvelous truth but one we’ve gotten used to (Example of my wife and I- we used to sit in the car for hours and talk; since we’ve gotten married we don’t sit 5 seconds!!! We love each other more; it’s just that we’ve grown past that “sit in the car” stage). I believe this is the same way we should look at the Resurrection today. We don’t need to prove it as a fact but move past that to living it’s reality in our lives. If the Resurrection is going to affect our lives then we must learn its Implication and our Obligations

I. RESURRECTION IMPLICATIONS:

A) REDEMPTION IS ACCEPTED- (God’s Big “PAID IN FULL” over our Sin debt). Jesus was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification (Rom 4:25). And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: (Rom 1:4). And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins (1 Cor 15:17)

1. Resurrection is more than new life- Many have returned from the dead (widow’s son that Elijah raised, dead soldier raised by touching Elisha’s bones, Lazarus, Jarius’ daughter, widow of Nain’s son, etc) but Christ was resurrected never to die again (The wages of sin have been paid and death has no more hold over him).

2. Christianity is not based on the teachings of Christ but on His death and resurrection (See I Cor 15:1-4). The rich young ruler had kept the commandments but he went away lost because he would not come to Christ by way of the Cross. [Isn’t it strange how easily we get used to the fact that Christ died in our place!! If you paid off my car right now so that I didn’t have a car payment I’d be ecstatic; yet most people sit unmoved and look almost bored when I tell them Christ died in their place!].

B) ALL POWER IS AVAILABLE- Matt 28:18-19 All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth, go ye therefore… The Holy Spirit has come and His power is available to us (To kill giants and capture walled cities in our “Promised Land”). Resurrection enables us to see the power God has given us- Ep 1:18-20 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places. far above all principalities and powers and ever name that is named.

We are like the 2 shoe salesmen who were sent to Africa; one came home in despair and said, “No one wears shoes in Africa”, the other sent a telegram to the home office ordering cases of shoes and saying, “NO ONE wears shoes in Africa!”. Multitudes of Christians don’t realize that God has already conquered our worst enemies and surely can help us conquer those that remain. (NOTE- This is not Freedom from Failure as some advocate (Jesus was broke, homeless, used a borrowed tomb, and had to let one of his disciples care for his mother. Paul was run out of town, stoned, jailed, and counted all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ). It is POWER TO BE WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO BE-II Cor 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.)

C) DEATH HAS BEEN CONQUERED- The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death (1 Cor 15:26). I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Rev 1:18). And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Heb 2:15). But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: (2 Tim 1:10).

II. RESURRECTION OBLIGATIONS: The Benefits of Resurrection are tremendous but great rewards also mean great responsibilities. The Resurrection is not simply something we discuss in the Past and look forward to in the Future; it is something we LIVE IN THE PRESENT. It not only declares our Salvation and empowers us to live the Christian life; it also presents us with obligations.

A) PREACH THE GOSPEL- After His resurrection Jesus had one great theme- Matt 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever i have commanded you; and lo, i am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Mark 16:15 Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Acts 1:8 Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

1. Witness- of Christ. He said that if HE was lifted up HE would draw all men unto Himself. Men need to know that Jesus has paid their sin debt and is living to make intercession for them.

2. Make Disciples- Salvation is not the end of the Journey; just as the Cross was not the end of Christ! Now we must make “disciples” of those who believe and accept Christ. That’s the purpose of the Church.

B) PREPARE FOR HIS COMING- The fact that He went away and said He would return:

1. Gives us Hope- Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great god and our savior Jesus Christ;

2. Makes us Holy- I John 3:2-3 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. and every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

3. Promises us a Home- John 14:2-3 In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto my self; that where I am, there ye may be also.

If you lack assurance of Salvation- The Price has been paid

If you need power- He has conquered every enemy.

If you fear death- He has defeated it

And He’s Coming; Are you ready for His Return.

WHAT JESUS LEFT WHEN HE LEFT Acts 2:26-28

Easter teaches us that Government may try to kill God but He just will not stay in the grave! [A 3000 souls saved sermon using my life verse {Ps 16:11} as its text] Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance (Acts 2:26-28).

God was not willing to leave Jesus’s body in the grave or a soul in Hell. But when Jesus left earth to go to Heaven here are six things Jesus Left when He Left. Jesus left:

His personal Possessions: Jesus died on a borrowed cross (Barabbas), borrowed someone to care for His mother (John 19:26-27), and was buried in a borrowed tomb (Joseph of Arimathaea). He had nowhere to lay His head (Matt 8:20) and He died without even a shirt on His back! (His Robe was gambled for at the cross). Even His burial clothes were left in the tomb!
The Devil does not want you poor and pitiful; he wants you rich and increased with goods, having need of nothing (Rev 3:17) so you will be preoccupied with possessions, profits, and pleasure instead of spending time with God. Satan wants you to believe that the discomfort in your soul is worth the shiny object in your life. I just wonder what you will we say when you hear, “Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?”
A perpetual Prayer Priest– Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:14-16).
A powerful Partner– These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you (Jn 14:25-26).
A Part in His Body with Goal to Accomplish and Commands to Obey– For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, (1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
A Promise of a prepared Place– Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1-3).
A perfect Pardon– For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. (Hebrews 10:14). It is finished!
That gives us a Living Hope– Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:3 5)

Jesus Left:

• Earthly possessions which were temporary for a home that is eternal.

• A Salvation that was completed and a Mission that was commanded.

• The Spirit to live within us and a promise that He will come for us.

• A tomb that was empty so Heaven could be filled.

ANOTHER VERSION OF THIS SERMON:

An Actress named Sarah Died on a TV show and many cried at school- No impact on me because it was just TV. A Sports car driver named Dale Earnhardt Died- No impact because did not know. Jesus Christ Died and Rose- It changed my Life because He is my Savior and Lord; my Help and Hope.

SEVEN THINGS JESUS LEFT WHEN HE LEFT

1. HIS POSSESSIONS: Possessions did not possess the Prince of Peace because He knew what had real value- though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). Magpies (related to the crow family) often use shiny objects to line their nests. These shiny objects make the nest less comfortable but some scientists believe the Magpies collect them because they are able to recognize themselves in these “mirrors”. I wonder how many people live in “Magpie mansions” filled with disorder and debt simply because they think the accumulation of things will bring “mirrors of meaning” to their life

2. AN EMPTY TOMB- O Death where is thy sting? O Grave where is thy victory? A tomb that was empty so Heaven could be filled. An Empty Tomb means Death is Conquered and Sins are paid for- Glory!

3. THE PROMISE OF A COMING SPIRIT to make you a new creature in Christ: Disciples were fearful and “doubting Thomas” until the Promised Spirit filled them for service (Example of God leading about Maine house for Mandy during Shannon Wedding).

4. FULL PAYMENT FOR MY SINS – Eternal Assurance. ALL SINS PAID FOR (Rebellion reasons for rejection)

5. A PROMISE FOR RETURN AND A PLACE FOR ETERNITY- A Promise He would return- In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye and a declaration that He would put His carpenter skills to good use by building me a mansion in Heaven.

6. A COMMAND TO OBEY – Go to all the world and carry the Gospel. I remember my First pair of glasses- I saw leaves on trees and Stars in the heaven and was amazed. If you are walking around in the dark or if life is all fuzzy then you need to come to the Light and let Him change your life.

7. A LIVING HOPE- Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:3 5)

WHEN I DIE I want to make sure I do not leave:

Any debt unpaid

Any opportunity untaken (Shared God’s Good News with a minimum of 500 people almost every week for over 40 years).

Any expression of Love not given

Any Friendship not supported

Any Doubt about my relationship with God and my Residence in Heaven. In life’s struggle, winning a battle but losing your soul is not a good victory. Christ offers Salvation for your soul, Help for living, and a Heavenly Home. Are you willing to turn from Sin and accept this Savior?

ODD NOTES ON EASTER:

EMPTY:

1) The Cross- Sin’s Debt is paid

2) The Tomb- Death’s Grip is Broken

3) The Heart- Without Christ on Your Heart Throne

REACTIONS TO THE CRUCIFIXION:

Judas- Returned the Money and took his life

Pilate- Washed his hands and refused involvement

Jews- Called for blood on their heads and refused Messiah

Thieves on Cross-

1. Hardened heart

2. Saved by “skin of teeth”

Jesus would not talk to Herod because he wanted a “carnival Christ” but he did talk to Pilate and try to get him to see the light.

Jesus was:

1) Betrayed by a Disciple

2) Denied by a Friend

3) Scorned by his nation

4) Mocked by his jailers

5) Forsaken by his Father

6) And should be accepted by YOU

The Transfiguration of Jesus is an example of what happens in a regenerated life- The transformation must come from within and work it’s way outside (If it is only an outside change Jesus said you were a whited sepulchers) (See Rom 12:2). The Resurrection means God has dealt with Sin’s Penalty at the Cross and with Sin’s Power at the Tomb (and will one day deal with Sin’s Presence in Heaven!). You can be Born Again with your Past forgiven and your heart changed so you will gradually change your life style (Like a man with heart surgery-The Surgery deals with the clogged arteries and then you must learn to exercise, eat right, etc. to have continued health).

Ladies were first at the Tomb while the Men slept! They slept in the garden while Jesus Prayed and slept while he was being resurrected- no wonder Paul later said (Rom 13:11 Knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed).

Christians celebrate Easter every Sunday. The Jews celebrated the Rest (Sabbath) on the last day of the week but we celebrate Resurrection on the first day of the week.

The Pharisees remembered what his disciples forgot about his resurrection! And asked for a seal to be put on the tomb.

RESURRECTION I Cor 15:1-20

I. FOUNDATION OF OUR FAITH 1-19

A) The GOSPEL we Preach- 1-11 Christ died, was buried, and rose again according to the Scriptures and the testimony of many witnesses.

B) The FOUNDATION we Build on- 12-18 Disprove the Resurrection and the rest of Christianity comes falling down:

1. Our Resurrection depends on His Resurrection 12-13

2. Our Preaching depends on His Resurrection 14-15

3. Our Salvation depends on His Resurrection 16-17

4. Our Hope depends on His Resurrection 18-19

II. FOUNDATION OF OUR FUTURE 20-

A) Christ the First fruits

1. in Redemption (In Adam all die, In Christ all made alive)

2. in Resurrection

a. Christ the First Fruits

b. They that are Christ’s at his coming (Church, Rapture)

c. Then cometh the end (2nd Resurrection to Judgment)

B) Conquering Death He will complete God’s Plan and deliver a saved, subdued kingdom to the Father.

Do you view the Resurrection as an interesting Fact or a LIFE CHANGING FOUNDATION???

It means- You can be Saved by Faith; You Can Serve with God’s Power; You can look forward to Reigning with Christ.

Christ appeared no less than 17 times after His Resurrection. 5 times on Easter Sunday, 6 times between then and the Ascension, and 6 times between Pentecost and the completion of the Bible:

1. To Mary Magdalene Mk 16:9

2. To the Other Women Matt 28:9-10

3. To Peter alone Luke 24:34 I Cor 15:5

4. To 2 Disciples on the road to Emmaus Mark 16:12-13

5. To the 10 Disciples Mark 16:14

6. To the 11 Disciples a week later John 20:26-29

7. To the 7 Disciples by the sea of Galilee John 21:1-23

8. To 500 at once I Cor 15:6

9. To James, the Lord’s brother I Cor 15:7

10. To the 11 on mountain in Galilee (Great Commission) Matt 28:16-20

11. To the 11 on the Mt of Olives before Ascension Acts 1:3-12

12. To Stephen before his death Acts 7:55

13. To Paul on the Road to Damascus Acts 9:3-6

14. To Paul in Arabia Acts 26:17 Gal 1:12,17

15. To Paul in the Temple Acts 22:17-21

16. To Paul in Prison in Caesarea Acts 23:11

17. To John on the Isle of Patmos Rev 1:12

RESURRECTION QUESTIONS

Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: (1 Corinthians 15:12-13).

RESURRECTION REALITIES

The most important single event in the history of the world was the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Others had been raised from the dead but only Christ was resurrection to eternal life with a new transformed body.

Sown a seed raised a fruit

Sown In Corruption Raised in Incorruption

Sown in dishonor raised in glory

Sown in weakness raised in power

Sown a physical (earthly) body raised a spiritual (heavenly) body

Sown a flesh and blood body raised a changed body

Sown a mortal body raised an immortal body.

Questions about the Resurrection:

1) And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.

2) Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.

3) If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. (1 Corinthians 15:17-19)

4) But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? (1 Corinthians 15:35)

5) And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation (2 Peter 3:4).

One Final Answer you need to Answer: I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live (Deut 30:19)

SOME RESURRECTION MORNING PARADOXES Lk. 24:1-9

Intro. A paradox could be called a contradiction, or an ambiguity, or a dilemma, or a puzzle. Many of the things that happened that first resurrection morning appeared to be a dilemma or puzzle, but God turned them into precious truths that I would like to share with you this morning.

Notice, for example, you don’t expect to hear good news at a graveyard, but the best news the world ever had came from a graveyard near Jerusalem. See verse 1 compared to verse 9 – They went to anoint a dead Christ; they came to announce a living Christ. These disciples and ladies went to a tomb very sad; they came back very glad.

I find in Matt 28:2 that the Lord turned the barrier (the stone to seal the tomb) into a bench (the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.)

The Light of heaven who came to this world was laid in the ground in the dusk of the evening; at the time of the rising of the sun, the Son rose, never to set again – He is the Bright and Morning Star.

These soldiers had been guarding a dead man (that must have been the easiest job on earth); now they became as dead men. Matt 28:4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. (It is interesting to note that when the earth quaked, these men of the earth quaked as well and became like the dead man they were guarding.)

God finished His Work on the sixth day – GEN 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. GEN 2:1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. On the seventh day, God rested – GEN 2:2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.

Christ finished His work on the sixth day – JOH 19:30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. He rested on the seventh day – JOH 19:40-42 Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand. (This was the fulfilling of the prophecy; MAT 27:62-63 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

Some said that Jesus simply fainted on the cross and in the cool of the grave revived and escaped. Allow yourself to be beat 39 times with a cat of nine tails; allow them to pluck out your beard and press a crown of thorns on your head; carry a cross outside of the city and allow them to put spikes in your hands and feet and hang you in the sun for 6 hours; let a soldier put a spear into your heart til the blood and water rushes out (a soldier that is experienced in determining death declared him dead knowing that his life was in the balance!!). Then see if you just fainted or died!!!

The Cross had been before a sign of shame, suffering and sorrow; now it is a symbol of victory and power.

But, back to the paradoxes:

He became all that we were, that we might be all that He is.

He, who had all of Heaven, became poor (not even a place to lay his head); that we who are poor creatures (with nothing to call our own), may own all of heaven.

He, who had perfect health, was sickened by stripes, that by His stripes we might be healed.

He, who was immortal, became mortal; that we who are mortal, might become immortal.

He, who was always in the presence of His Father, was forsaken by His Father; that we who have forsaken God, may always be in God’s presence.

He, who was sinless, became sin; that we who are sinners, might become sinless.

He who had all hope, gave up hope; that we who had no hope, might have all hope. (let this cup, not my will)

Satan thought he had finally won this time; But this was his greatest defeat.

How do I know that Christ is risen?

What proof have I to give?

He rescued me from sin’s dark prison

And I began to live.

How do I know He left the tomb

That Easter so long ago?

I met Him at the dawn’s fresh bloom

And life is all aglow.

How do I know he gained for me

Access to Heaven’s door?

Christ’s work in me is guarantee

Of life forevermore.

How do I know that Christ still lives

Rich Blessings to impart?

Abundant grace and peace He gives

And lives within my heart.

And now, because of Christ’s resurrection, our resurrection is assured. Because He lives, we can live, because He arose, we shall arise.

When Lord Nelson was buried at London’s Saint Paul’s Cathedral, 30 trumpeters were stationed at the door of the Cathedral, where they stood at attention awaiting the signal to sound. When the illustrious dead arrived, they lifted their trumpets to their lips and gave one united blast; then all was silent. But they did not wake the sleeper. But what 30 trumpeters could not do, one trumpeter will do on the resurrection morning. When Gabriel sounds the trumpet, those who have died in the Lord will rise to meet Jesus in the air. We’ll be able to say with the old Negro spiritual, “Free at last, Free at last, Praise God Almighty, we’re free at last.”

Christ is risen! Hallelujah!

Christ is risen from the dead.

Death no more shall have dominion,

Since His precious blood was shed.

Now the rock-hewn tomb is flooded

With celestial life and light,

Since the living Lord has triumphed

Over death and sin’s dark night.

Hear the headline news from heaven.

Ye who tarry at the tomb;

Christ is risen as He told you

Seek Him not amid death’s gloom.

“Go and tell His sad disciples

That their Master lives once more;

He will greet them some glad morning

On their Galilean shore.”

Yes, the living, loving Savior,

Now in heaven exalted high,

Died and rose, the mighty Victor,

That mankind need never die.

Now He is our Intercessor

At the throne of God above,

Where the saints of all the ages

Sing of His redeeming Love.

Though He lives in light supernal,

Still He deigns to dwell with me;

Christ, my omnipresent Savior,

Mine for all eternity.

But until that hallowed moment,

When He calls me to His side,

Let me live to love and serve Him,

Christ, my Master and my Guide.

THE EFFECTS OF THE RESURRECTION

The heart of Christianity is the Easter Story; The Death, Burial and Resurrection of Christ. Christ’s Death took care of our Sin Problem and His Resurrection takes care of our Self Problem. But in order for this to be true it must change from a Doctrine we believe into a Life that we live. That’s why today I want us to look at some of the “Effects of the Resurrection” so we can determine what we are to DO as well as what we are to BELIEVE.

1. The Preaching Effect of the Resurrection

A) On Men: It changed scared Disciples into active Preachers. If you really believe that Jesus has conquered Death (and that you conquer death in Him) then you will change from someone “Whining about living better” into someone Witnessing to the greatest Power in the world.

B) On their Message: If no resurrection then Preaching is vain (I Cor 15:13 15 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not).

Christ’s death on the cross does not mean anything if He is not resurrected since His resurrection is God’s way of saying He accepts his sacrifice. We must not simply preach about men’s sins but also about the Great Salvation that is theirs in Christ.

2. The Purifying Effect of the Resurrection-Romans 6:1 11 Shows us that we should walk in newness of life because of the Spirit that dwells in us.

A) The POWER to walk in this newness of life is the same power that resurrected Christ from the Dead (Ephesians 1:18 20 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places).

B) The PRODDING to live right is our realization that Christ is coming again (I John3:2 3 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure).

C) The PRESSURE to live right is intensified by the knowledge of those who observe us (Heb 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us).

3. The Priestly Effect of the Resurrection

A) Regarding our Prayers- Heb 4:14 16 shares with us that Christ is not just Raised from the Dead but that He is now at the right hand of the Father interceding in our Behalf!! This means we can now Boldly come to the Father with our needs.

B) Regarding our Sins (I John 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the father, Jesus Christ the righteous).

4. The Promised Effect of the Resurrection

A) A New Body I Corinth 15:12 23 Not only has Christ been raised from the Dead but HE WILL ONE DAY GIVE HIS FOLLOWERS A NEW BODY ALSO!

B) A Returning King

Don’t allow the new Easter Clothes or all the Easter Activities to distract you from the main point of Easter- CHRIST. He came forth from the Grave and one day He will come back for His Church.

Are you a witness to the Power and Presence of Christ?

Are you living so that you’re ready for the Lord to come today?

Are your Prayers orders for God or obedient to God’s Will??

Are you looking for his Return??

THE EFFECTS OF THE RESURRECTION SS Lesson

The heart of Christianity is the Easter Story The Death, Burial and Resurrection of Christ. Christ’s Death took care of our Sin Problem and His Resurrection takes care of our Self Problem. But in order for this to be true it must change from a Doctrine we believe into a Life that we live!

1. The Preaching Effect of the Resurrection Acts 2:32 36 Shows us that now Christ is LORD of all. (The Disciples preaching centered around the Resurrected Savior and not the Holy Spirit). He that could conquer Sin and Death is the only Lord we should bow to.

2. The Purifying Effect of the Resurrection Romans 6:1 11 Shows us that we should walk in newness of life because of the Spirit that dwells in us. The power to walk in this newness of life is the same power that resurrected Christ from the Dead Ephesians 1:18 20 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

3. The Priestly Effect of the Resurrection Heb 4:14 16 shares with us that Christ is not just Raised from the Dead but that He is now at the right hand of the Father interceding in our Behalf!! This means we can now Boldly come to the Father with our needs.

4. The Promised Effect of the Resurrection I Corinth 15:12 23 Not only has Christ been raised from the Dead but HE WILL ONE DAY GRANT HIS FOLLOWERS A NEW BODY ALSO!!!

Don’t allow the new Easter Clothes or all the Easter Activities to distract you from the main point of Easter-CHRIST. He came forth from the Grave and one day He will come back for His Church. Are you one of the Body of Christ???

The Greatest Event in World History- The Resurrection I Cor 15:-

The Birth, Life, Teachings, and even the Cross of Christ mean nothing without the Resurrection (vs 14). The Resurrection is God’s way of saying our sin debt is “Paid in Full” and now we have the victory over death, hell, and the grave.

Jesus was the first to be Resurrected from the dead- others have been brought back to life: Lazarus, widow of Nain’s son, Jarius’ daughter, etc; but all of these had to die again. Jesus died, received a resurrection body and can not die again (Christians will receive their resurrection body at His return- I Thess 4:13-18). Baptism is a symbol to the world of our belief in the Resurrection of Christ- Rom 6:3-6.

I. NEW BIRTH: THE HEART OF THE GOSPEL 1-19 Without the Resurrection we Have:(Note. Vain means “Void of Value” Worthless)

A) Vain Belief (Vs 2). Unless Christ died for our sins and was resurrected; thus proving He was accepted of God (Rom 4:25).

B) Vain Grace (vs 10). Unless it leads to action. (see vs 58 where your Labor is not in Vain)

C) Vain Preaching (vs 14). If the most important part of the message is false.

D) Vain Faith (vs 14, 17). We are still in sin and without hope if Christ is not risen.

II. NEW BELIEF: THE HELP IN TIME OF TROUBLE 20-34

A) All Die (vs 20-22). But death is not the end!!

B) God’s Plans are at work (vs 23-28). We don’t see the Resurrection Results now BUT WE WILL!

C) All our work is based on life beyond this one (vs 29-34). If there is no Resurrection then there is no Judgment- Let us eat and drink for tomorrow we die.

III. NEW BODY: THE HEAVENLY BODY DIFFERENT FROM THE EARTHLY 35-50

A) Must die to live 35-36 Remember that!

B) Resurrection Body is different from earthly body 37-45 (How different the stalk is from the grain of corn. How marvelous will be the Resurrection Body–sown in dishonor, raised in Glory!).

C) The Natural body is first, then the Spiritual 46-47

D) We’ll bear the image of the Heavenly as we do the earthly 48-50

IV. NEW BOLDNESS: THE HOPE OF THE CHRISTIAN 51-58

A) The Rapture 51-54 In the twinkling of an eye

B) The Rejoicing 55-57 O Death, where is thy sting

C) The Reason for steadfast work 58 Labor is not in vain in the Lord.

I Cor 15:19 if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable

THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION I Corinthians 15:13-19

Today’s message is much too serious to bring to a congregation exited by Easter activities, tired from a Sunrise Service, and looking for a quick “Hallelujah” about a risen Savior. If I asked for a show of hands on who believes in the Resurrection I would probably get a unanimous vote. Yet, I fear we just want to feel good about Jesus rising from the Dead so we’ll have something we can remember when “cousin Clem” dies, or something to hold on to if WE become deathly sick.

In the next few minutes I want us to see the Importance of the Resurrection, the Power of the Resurrection, and the Practice of the Resurrection in our daily living. I want us to see the possibility that we’ve made an “idol” out of Jesus, that we put the empty cross above the empty tomb, and that one of the reasons Christianity has become more “talk than walk” is that we are trying to live in Silent Saturday instead of Resurrection Sunday.

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RESURRECTION. I could give you some good Human reasoning here but I think the best sermon ever preached on the Importance of the Resurrection was preached by the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 15:13-19 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. Without the Resurrection, Paul says our Preaching, our Faith, our testimony, and our hope of eternal life are all worthless!! The Resurrection is not simply a doctrine we consider; it’s the vital ingredient in everything Christianity stands for and is.

II. THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION– It is critical that we understand the difference between “Raised from the Dead” and Resurrection. Many people in the Bible were “raised from the Dead”; but all of them had to die again– they simply received an “extension” on their life. Jesus was Resurrected from the Dead- He received a new body and He will never die again!!

It is Important that we realize that The Source of this Power is God. We make the mistake of attributing Resurrection Power to Christ (as if He raised himself from the dead!). In our minds that means that we have to accept Christ’s Payment for Sin’s Penalty but somehow we must break Sin’s Power on our own! We MUST grasp the truth of Rom 4:25 that Jesus was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification…. Delivered for our Offenses- Sin’s Penalty Paid; Raised Again for our Justification- Sin’s Power Broken. [This doesn’t mean that sin cannot Brother us- see Rom 7- but it does mean that we have the power available to CONQUER OUR SINFUL NATURE. And as we conquer our Sin Nature we conform more and more to the image of Christ– Which is our ultimate goal!!!].

III. THE PRACTICE OF THE RESURRECTION Eph 1:18-20 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

A) In Our Salvation- It is NOT ENOUGH to simply believe that Jesus died on the Cross for you, that only takes care of your debt to death; now you must have power to Live- ROM 4:24-25 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

ROM 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

I Pet 1:21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

B) In Our Service- Belief in the Power of the Resurrection changed scared fishermen into world shaking Missionaries. They witnessed many people being raised from the dead but that did not give them courage to stand when Jesus was arrested. However, A risen savior motivated them to preach to the multitude and stand fearlessly before religious leaders.

C) In our Relationship with God. Have we made an “Idol” out of Jesus because He is the only part of God that was seen by Humans??? Have we stressed Salvation by Jesus to the point we hardly recognize Justification with God?? Has Redemption replaced Relationship??

When we begin living on the “Easter Side of the Tomb” then life will be abundant and meaningful. As long as we stay at the cross we will remember our past instead of living our future- Eph 2:5-6 Even when we were dead in sins, (GOD) hath quickened us together with Christ, (By grace are ye saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus;

The Resurrection was the greatest thing that has ever happened on the earth. It affirms our Salvation, Motivates our Service, and allows us to “sit together in Heavenly place in Christ Jesus”. Is it a Doctrine in your head or a life changing power in your heart???

THE REJECTION OF THE KING

I. THREE SIGNS 21:1 22

1. Presentation of the King 21:1 11 (Israel’s Spiritual Blindness)

2. Purifying of the Temple 21:12 16 (Inward Corruption)

3. Cursing of the Fig tree 21:17 22 (outward fruitlessness)

II. THREE PARABLES 21:23 22:14

1. The two sons 21:23 32 They rejected the Father)

2. The vineyard 21:33 46 They rejected the Son

3. The Wedding 22:1 14 They rejected the Spirit

III. THREE QUESTIONS 22:15 46

1. Tribute to Caesar 22:15 22 Political Question from Herodians

2. The resurrection 22:23 33 Doctrinal question from Sadducees

3. The Great Commandment 22:34 46 Legal question from Pharisees

IV. THREE DISCOURSES 23:1, 26:46

1. Condemnation of the Pharisees 23

2. Explanation of the future kingdom 24 25

3. Preparation of the disciples for the Cross 26:1 46

V. THREE TRIALS 26: 27 27:66

1. Before Caiaphas and the council 26:47 75

2. Before the council in the morning 27:1 10

3. Before Pilate, leading to Christ’s death 27:11 66

THE RESULTS OF THE RESURRECTION

Today is VICTORY DAY! We celebrate the greatest event in the history of the world; The Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Why is it important and what’s it means.

I. THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION

A) The Human Factor

1. Disciples were willing to die for it. Not one decided to save his life by denying it.

2. The Enemies of Christ never repudiated it. No one ever produced the body or anyone who ever saw the dead body. The soldiers had to be bribed to make a false statement. All the Pharisees had to do was produce one person who had seen the dead body or the body itself and kill Christianity in its tracks. They never did.

3. The “Swoon Theory”. Some said that Jesus simply fainted on the cross and in the cool of the grave revived and escaped. Allow yourself to be beat 39 times with a cat of nine tails; allow them to pluck out your beard and press a crown of thorns on your head; carry a cross outside of the city and allow them to put spikes in your hands and feet and hang you in the sun for 6 hours; let a soldier put a spear into your heart til the blood and water rushes out (a soldier that is experienced in determining death declared him dead; knowing that his life was in the balance!!). Then see if you just fainted or died!!!

B) The Divine Factor

1. His symbols proclaimed it

a. Jesus’ Baptism was a sign of His death burial and resurrection as ours is! (Rom 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the father, even so we also should walk in newness of life).

b. The ordinances of the “Lord’s Supper” represent his broken body and shed blood and we are to celebrate until He comes.

2. Jesus predicted it- Matt 12:40 As Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Matt 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day (See also Matt 17:22 23 and Matt 20:17 19). John 2:19 Jesus answered and said unto them, destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. John 10:17 18 Therefore doth my father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.

3. Angels announced it- He is Risen!

4. Jesus appeared 10 times to over 500 people in a number of different circumstances (12 if you count Stephen and Paul’s Vision) (Some have said this was a case of people “seeing what they wanted to see”. In the garden Mary thought he was the gardener and had to be convinced he was risen. The disciples wouldn’t believe the women and Thomas wouldn’t believe the rest of the disciples!! He appeared in the morning in the garden, during the day on the road to Emmaus, at night in a closed room, by the seashore to his disciples, and on the mount of ascension to the disciples

II. THE RESULTS OF THE RESURRECTION

A) Concerning God: Justification: Payment of sin accepted Rom 4:25 Jesus was delivered for our offenses and raised again for our justification. When Jesus Came forth from the grave it was God’s big PAID IN FULL for our sin debt. (Just as if I had never sinned! Forgiven, Forgotten, Forever!!)

B) Concerning man

1. Help for today

Peace with God because my sins forgiven

Partnered with God thru ministry of the Holy Spirit.

a. source of comfort

b. source of power: Pray to a Heavenly Father thru a “Torn Veil” (access). Jesus is Our Mediator at Father’s right hand.

2. Hope for tomorrow- Death can’t hold us. (We’ll have a new glorious body) and the Devil won’t defeat us (We’ve read the end of the book!!!)

DO YOU BELIEVE THAT JESUS CHRIST IS THE SON OF GOD AND THAT HE DIED FOR YOUR SINS??

DO YOU BELIEVE THAT HE CAME FORTH FROM THE GRAVE; CONQUERING SIN, DEATH, AND HELL?? ARE YOU WILLING TO COMMIT YOURSELF TO HIM TODAY???

THE SEVEN SAYINGS

THE PARDON SAYINGS:

1) Verily, I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise (Lu 23:43)

2) Father forgive them; for they know what they do (Lu 23:34)

THE PARENT SAYINGS:

3) Woman, behold thy son! Behold thy mother! (John 19:26-27)

4) Eli, Eli, Lamasabachthani? Matt 27:46 (My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?)

THE PERSONAL SAYINGS:

5) HIS THIRST “I Thirst” After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth (John 19:28-29)

A) The Reason for His Thirst (see Matt 27:46 49 where they thought he called for Elias and gave him vinegar. Also Mk 15:33 36 and Lu 23:36)

1. The Personal Reason Heat, Stress, dehydration

2. The Prophecy Reason Ps 69:21 They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

B) The Reaction to His Thirst

1. Filled a sponge with vinegar (Sour wine that the soldiers drank)

2. Put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth ( Hyssop was used by the Jews to put blood on their door during Passover. It was a thorny plant that symbolized purification Ps. 51:7 Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean

6) HIS TASK “It is finished” When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost (John 19:30)

A) The Greek word here is “Tetelestai” and means “It is finished and as a result is done forever.” The price Jesus paid on Calvary was enough for everyone for ever!! (Men don’t go to Hell for sin- Jesus paid for that! They go because of unbelief)

B)There are 3 places in the Bible God says “It is finished”

1. At the end of Creation Gen 2:1

2. At the end of Salvation

3. At the end of Tribulation Rev 16:7

7) HIS TRUST Lu 23:46 “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost (Luke 23:44-46)

A) Willing to Die that I might live (No man took His life. He gave it).

B) Completely confident in Father’s love and care

The people who watched Jesus die knew that He was the Son of God. Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God (Matt 27:54)

Have YOU recognized that fact? Will you accept Him as your personal Savior?

THE THREE CROSSES AT CALVARY LUKE 23:33

This event was the fulfillment of Isaiah’s Prophecy which said “he was numbered with the transgressors” Isaiah 53:12). It was at Calvary that “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: “for it is written, cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.” (Galatians 3:13)

The scene before us brings to our attention three men, each hanging upon a cross. Each man has something to say; all three have a message for us to learn.

1. THE CROSS Of REDEMPTION. SAVIOR dying FOR sin

As we turn our eyes to the man on the middle cross, we are reminded of Peter’s words when he said, “forasmuch as Ye know that Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from Your vain conversation received by tradition from Your fathers; but with the Precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 11 Peter 1:18 19) from the sacred account of God’s Word we learn much about the redemptive work of Christ.

A. HIS DEATH WAS VIOLENT-The nature of His death was described hundreds of years before by these words: (Psalm 22:13 17). Not only has the half not been told about his wonderful life; the Pen of the most talented writer and the tongue of the most gifted orator has not touched the hem of the garment in their efforts to describe the vicious Punishment and horrible sufferings that He experienced. He who is “altogether lovely” was marred more than any man.

B. HIS DEATH WAS VOLUNTARY-He assured His disciples that no man would take His Life. John 10:l8. He Promised that He would lay it down at the appointed hour and in the Prescribed manner. He was born to die. He came down from above that He might go up to Calvary. The wooden cross which was hewed out of a tree that He created was typical of the humanity of Christ who was cut off from the land of the living of His own volition, He Presented Himself as a lamb for the slaughter.

C. HIS DEATH WAS VITAL-After the Lord’s Promise of persecution to His church, He taught “his disciples, how that he must go into Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief Priests and scribes, and be killed. Note that it is the CROSS of Christ and not the Example of Christ that paid for our sins.

2. THE CROSS OF RECEPTION (Sinner dying TO Sin)

He could do no works or Religious activity. Realized he WAS condemned (Whosoever believeth not is condemned already). Realized he SHOULD be condemned (“We indeed justly”). Looked for a way NOT to be Condemned (Repented. Acknowledged Christ as sinless “Done nothing amiss”. Asked God for help “Remember me”).

3. THE CROSS OF REJECTION (Sinner dying IN Sin)

Joined in with the crowd (Crowds do not stand before God; individuals do)

Too heart hearted and hard headed to realize he was dying and had to face God.

Some “IF” that cause people today to choose this final cross:

If Today was tomorrow I would be saved

If I thought I could hold out I would be saved

If I did not have to give up so much I would be saved

If You did not die while saying “IF” you might be spend eternity in Heaven instead of Hell

THREE DAYS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD

Today is April 20, 1984 AD (Anno Domini- “in the year of our Lord”). Men base their standard of time on the Birth of a man in far away Israel. What could give this man such importance- did he invent a great machine or discover a great medicine? Did he rule a great country or possess great wealth? No, he died at the age of 33 as a poor country preacher in the poverty stricken nation of Israel; and yet the 3 days surrounding His death changed the world forever.

It really began on Thursday night when Jesus celebrated Passover with his disciples, then there was his passion in the garden, his betrayal by one of his own, and his trials (before the Sanhedrin, before Pilate, before Herod, before Pilate). Then early Friday morning he was sentenced to Death for “rebellion” against the Roman Empire.

FRIDAY–

The Crucifixion: 1 dying FOR Sin, 1 Dying IN Sin, 1 Dying TO Sin

The Cries-

1) Father Forgive them, they know not what they do

2) Today shalt thou be with me in Paradise

3) Woman, behold thy Son; Behold thy mother / Darkness over the land from noon until 3pm

4) My God, My God why hast thou forsaken me? (I Cor 5:21 He made him to be sin for us who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him).

5) I thirst (to fulfill scripture)

6) It is finished Is 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hast laid on him the iniquity of us all.

7) Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit / Veil of Temple rent from Top to Bottom- Access to God now open. Christ was then certified as dead by Centurion and by spear in His side. The first day ended with He who claimed to be God dead and hastily buried, his disciples scattered, and the world unchanged.

SATURDAY– Silent Saturday. The Disciples hid and wondered what to do. Pilate partied and worried, and the Son of God lay buried. What did Christ do during this time? (Remember death is not all).

1) Christ descended into the paradise part of Hell and broke the bonds of Hell. Because of His righteous life and sacrificial death he could not say, I am he that liveth, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell and death (Rev 1:18). The paradise part of Hell was opened (Eph 4:8-10 Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? he that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fulfill all things). He will return with Saints, did He ascend with Saints- Matt 27:52-53 The graves were opened, and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the Holy city, and appeared unto many.

2) He also made a proclamation to the fallen angels- I Pet 3:18-20 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: by which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; which sometimes were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is eight souls, were saved.

SUNDAY- The Tomb is empty, Christ has risen. Soon Christ will go up, the Holy Spirit will Come down, and the Church will go out. The Good news of the Gospel is complete= Dead for our sins, raised for our justification, and coming again. Have you allowed Him to change your life???

TRUTH AND TRADITIONS II Kings 18:1 6

When Hezekiah became King he wanted to do the right thing. This meant he had to look at what was going on and find the difference between Truth and Traditions. In his case it meant tearing down a symbol of Salvation because people had begun to worship the symbol instead of the Savior. I want to look at some EASTER TRADITIONS and see the Truth about them.

1. SPRING HOUSE CLEANING

Tradition: The Jews celebrate Passover each year at the same time Christians celebrate Easter. Passover was when God delivered the Jews from Egypt by sparing the first born of all who had the blood applied to their doorpost. One of the requirements of Passover was Exodus 12:15 “Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your house: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.”

Jewish women began the Tradition of “Spring House Cleaning” to make sure there was no leaven left in their house during Passover. Other people picked up the Tradition as it was a good time to clean up the house after the long winter of being closed in.

Truth: Leaven represents Sin in our lives. Leaven decays and corrupts and that is what sin does to us. When we find any “Leaven” in our lives we need to remember that if we “confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (I John 1:9).

Do you need to do any Physical “House cleaning” about your Spiritual life? Any Books, Records, Games, etc, you need to throw out??

2. LENT

Tradition: Originally the early Christians would ask those who wanted to join them to prepare for the hardships that would be theirs when they made a public stand for Christ by, among other things, “Fasting” (Doing without any meat or eggs) for the 40 days prior to Easter. Because of the difficulties endured during the 40 days they began to be called “Lengthened days” and finally “Lent”. The Catholic Church has corrupted this into the Lent Season which is 40 WEEK DAYS before Easter beginning with Ash Wednesday and going thru Good Friday. During this time Catholics are supposed to do special acts of penitence and have special “fasts”. (Mardi Gras is the big blow out before the 40 day period begins. Originally 1 day (Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday”) it is now several weeks long and includes parades, parties, reveling, and sin.

Truth: Easter should be a time we look at the seriousness of sin and what it cost Christ (Death on the Cross). It should also be a time we rejoice in the victory Christ accomplished for us over Death, Hell, and the Grave. It is not a time to “Pleasure the flesh”.

Are you willing to give up a meal this Easter season and spend that time reading the story of the Crucifixion and resurrection?

3. EASTER EGGS AND BUNNIES

Tradition: One of the things the early Christians gave up during “Lent” was eggs. So on Easter day the other Christians would give them a few eggs (Possibly in a basket) to welcome them into the Church. These eggs were dyed Red to represent the shed blood of Christ and when they were cracked they represented Christ coming forth from the tomb. (Is this how the act of hiding eggs began? Because the early Christians looked for eggs on Easter.).

No one seems to know for sure how the rabbit came into the picture. Maybe because he lives in a hole in the Ground (Grave) and comes out at this time of year.

Truth: The tradition of Easter eggs and bunnies is pretend; but the reason for the season is Jesus’ resurrection. Easter should be a time of rejoicing in the victory we have in Christ; not in finding Easter eggs.

4. WEARING NEW CLOTHES TO CHURCH ON EASTER

Tradition: In the Early Church many people wanted to be baptized the day before Easter to symbolize the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Then on Easter Sunday they would wear new clothes to Church to signify their new life in Christ. (Even in the O. T. this is known. Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God: for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.)

Truth: New Birth should mean new Life. Does the world know you are a Christian?? Do you dress in modest apparel to show the inward man of the heart ( I Pet 3:1 6).?

HEZEKIAH DID MORE THAN BREAK DOWN TRADITIONS. HE HONORED THE TRUTH.

BY RIGHT LIVING VS 3

BY FAITH VS 5

BY LOVE VS 6 He clave to the Lord.

BY RELATIONSHIP vs 7 God was with him.

Do not become a captive to Traditions; Know the Truth and it will make you free (John 8:32)

WHAT SHALL I DO WITH JESUS? Matt 27:11 26

A Life Changing Question is a Question that can Change your Life!

A PERSONAL Question: What shall “I” do (Not your Praying Mother or Church going Wife)

An ACTION Question: “What shall I DO”

Be for Him or against Him

Either Love Him or Hate Him

Accept Him or reject Him

Crown Him or crucify Him

Confess Him or deny Him

A RELATIONSHIP Question: It was about Jesus Christ and No One Else- Not the Hypocrites, or the unfaithful, or even sinners (I’m as good as…)

Pilate tried to evade responsibility by:

Sending Jesus to Herod- “Pass the Buck”

Giving a choice between Barabbas and Christ- See the Good I do

Washing his hands of the whole thing- not my responsibility

HE IS RISEN

And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him (Mark 16:1-6). Arising at 4:30 to 5:00 these ladies met together to go to the tomb and finish the “embalming” of Jesus so they could get back, prepare Breakfast, and begin packing for the return trip to their homes after all the events of Passover Week. They were tired, discouraged, and so preoccupied with what they had to do until they forgot about the Stone blocking the entrance to the Tomb. They arrived to find soldiers laying on the ground (Matt 28:4), the Stone rolled away, and Angels proclaiming “He is Risen”. What does that mean to us today?

HELP: Why couldn’t Jesus just be Resurrected and Remain? Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you (John 16:7). Counsel, Comfort, Correction

HOPE: Neighbor who died this week’s last words, “My hand is in His hand”. What comfort and peace that brought to the family. And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:17-19).

HERALD: If so many doubt can we still declare our Belief? Our message is not from our Mind or the Media but from our Risen Master: And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all (Acts 4:33).

HEAVEN: The End is not the End. We have a Better Place where we Belong: In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also (John 14:2-3).

HIM: We shall see Him face to face whom so long we have known Heart to Heart: We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).

How do I know that Christ is risen?

What proof have I to give?

He rescued me from sin’s dark prison

And I began to live.

How do I know He left the tomb

That Easter so long ago?

I met Him at the dawn’s fresh bloom

And life is all aglow.

How do I know he gained for me

Access to Heaven’s door?

Christ’s work in me is guarantee

Of life forevermore.

How do I know that Christ still lives

Rich Blessings to impart?

Abundant grace and peace He gives

And lives within my heart.

THE KING REJECTED Matt 21:1‑19

Today is PALM SUNDAY. The day tradition says Christ entered triumphally into Jerusalem and the multitude lined his way with their garments and Palm branches. They welcomed Him as a Hero because THEY THOUGHT HE WAS GOING TO CHANGE THINGS FOR THEM in this world (Set up a Kingdom) but less than a week later they cried, “Crucify Him” because He did not meet their expectations (My Kingdom is not of this world). How fickle is the Human Heart! How easy to love God in the Sunshine an doubt him in the storm. How easy to misjudge God by the changing standards of this world instead of the eternal Standard (God Himself). (That’s why He told us to love not the world because it passes away).

Let’s take an overview of the events of this passion week and then look at the first 3 events and their Spiritual Significance.

I. SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS Called Christ the Prophet, Not King. Men admire Him today and Praise Him but aren’t willing to serve Him. Blind in trespasses and sins, men stumble and fall into the ditch. Many have felt the warmth of the Sun but never have seen the beauty of the Light and they fear the Light because the light will expose them.

ARE YOU WILLING TO CLAIM CHRIST AS SAVIOR? NOT AS PROPHET BUT YOUR SAVIOR?

II. INWARD CORRUPTION The temple had become a den of thieves instead of a house of Prayer. Jesus Cleansed it at the beginning of his ministry and at the end (The People’s hearts weren’t changed so they returned to the same sins). OUTWARD REFORM DOES NOT CHANGE INWARD CORRUPTION. RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY DOES NOT MEAN A RIGHTEOUS HEART

III. FRUITLESSNESS Fig trees cursed because it had leaves but no fruit. FRUITLESSNESS IS A RESULT OF LACK OF LOVE AND FAITH‑ NOT LACK OF ABILITY

3 years of labor‑ fruit is expected; bear or burn Jn 15

2 types of Fruit‑ Fruit of Christian= more Christians

Fruit of Spirit= Love, joy, peace,…

Why did you come to Church today? Because you love God and His work, or to show the world your “leaves”? Have you given Christ “Palm Branches” or your Heart??

HOW THE RESURRECTION IMPACTS YOUR LIFE

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:3‑5)

Many do not want to die because:

A) Life is familiar

B) Family is Loved

C) Judgment is Feared

How does the Resurrection Impact your “real” Life?

I. A LIVELY HOPE– vs 3

A) A Living Hope See 1:21 God Raised Him from the dead and gave Him Glory

B) A Life Changing Hope

II. A PERSONAL INHERITANCE (Heaven) – vs 4 Reserved in Heaven for you

A) Incorruptible- Can not be made bad

B) Undefiled- Pure and Holy because God lives there.

C) Everlasting Fadeth not away

D) Reserved- Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1‑3)

My Place brings Peace.

My Place is Prepared

My Place is Personal

III. A POWERFUL SALVATION– vs 5 (Help)

A) The Wages of Sin is death

B) The Resurrection declares that sins are paid in full- Glory!

Hell is a Real Place. Many People are going there. Faith in Christ is the only hope of escape

STONY HEART

God is looking to “roll away your Stony Heart” and give you a New Heart and a New Life: A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26).

Here are some Stones we face in our life:

1) Stones that prevent us from doing our job for God– And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. (Mark 16:1-4).

2) Stones that keep us from Growing for God– And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended (Mark 4:16-17).

3) Stones that bring God’s Supply– And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4). You need 15,000,000 Gallons of water a day in order to supply Five gallons of water each for Three Million people in the desert! (Water to drink, wash, care for livestock).

4) Stones that bring Judgment: And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder (

Do not let the “Stones” keep you from finding the “good ground” of a relationship with God-

A) Your heart is not so hard God cannot change it– Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me? (Jeremiah 32:27). Let me tell you what is Really Hard; in this life and in the next! Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard (Proverbs 13:15).

B) God can, and will, change you if you come to Him today– And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh (Ezekiel 11:19).

STONE ROLLING

Most people are excited about the great triumphs of Easter- Jesus dying on the Cross to pay for our sins and His resurrection from the death to testify to our victory over Death- Glory! Most of us, however, are more concerned with the “little foxes that are spoiling our vines” (Financial problems, family problems, physical problems). A simple question on that first Easter Morning may help us to see how God can help us in the mundane as well as the marvelous.

When the Ladies approached the grave of Jesus on that first Easter Morning they realized they had a problem. The stone that acted as a door to the grave would prevent them from entering and anointing the body of Jesus- Mark 16:3-4 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.

The Bible tells about three stones that stood in people’s way. Each of them teaches us a lesson.

1. Stones that hinder our Progress– JACOB (“early online” dating” (lol)- going to meet a wife he had never met)- Gen 29:8-10 And they said, We cannot, until all the flocks be gathered together, and till they roll the stone from the well’s mouth; then we water the sheep. And while he yet spake with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep: for she kept them. And it came to pass, when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother’s brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother, that Jacob went near, and rolled the stone from the well’s mouth, and watered the flock of Laban his mother’s brother. What is keeping you from enjoying the blessings of God for your life?

2. Stones that we are afraid to move because of the stink that may be involved: LAZARUS John 11:39-40 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? Families face many things that can cause life to Stink- Debt, Divorce, Disease, Distance. It is our belief in God that will allow us to see the Glory of God

3. Stones that keep us away from God: Mat 28:2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

WHAT STONE IS HINDERING YOUR LIFE?? What Stone does God need to Roll for YOU?? Is your Stone:

1. A Grain of Sand (Irritation) PATIENCE

2. A Pebble (Afraid to face Giants, remember David) FEAR

3. A Boulder (Moses Strikes Rock) ANGER Be careful that you do not try to deal with the Stones in your life on your own- Moses smote the rock instead of speaking to the Rock and he missed the Promised Land!

4. A Mountain- DOUBT Mark 11:22-23 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

God is the Rock that is able to break all other rocks. Allow Him to work in your life today. Deu 32:31 For their rock is not as our Rock, even our enemies themselves being judges.