Embracing Resurrection: Faith, Doubt, and New Beginnings
Summary
Today, we gathered in the presence of the Lord, reminded of the immeasurable debt we owe to Jesus for the cross and the resurrection. As we reflect on the events of Crucifixion Friday and Resurrection Sunday, we are called to lay every burden, fear, and disappointment at the foot of the cross, trusting that Christ has already borne them for us. The resurrection is not just a historical event to be celebrated once a year, but a living reality that we honor every Sunday as we gather together, proclaiming that Jesus is alive and that the power of the resurrection is at work in us.
We are entering a season of preparation for Pentecost, a time to remember that the church was birthed in the power of the Holy Spirit and that each of us is called to be a disciple and a disciple-maker. The journey from the cross to Pentecost is marked by fear, doubt, and uncertainty, just as the disciples experienced after Jesus’ crucifixion. They hid behind locked doors, paralyzed by fear of the authorities and their own sense of failure and disappointment. Yet, in the midst of their fear, Jesus appeared, offering them peace—shalom—not just as a greeting, but as a deep restoration of their well-being and purpose.
Jesus’ resurrection body, with its scars, is a powerful reminder that our wounds and doubts do not disqualify us from God’s love or calling. Even Thomas, who doubted, was met with compassion and evidence, not condemnation. Jesus invites us to bring our doubts honestly before Him, promising that faith and doubt can coexist, and that He meets us where we are. The call is not to a blind faith, but to a faith that seeks, examines, and ultimately trusts in the risen Christ.
As we navigate a world filled with uncertainty, political upheaval, and personal fears, we are reminded that our allegiance is to the kingdom of God above all else. Our hope is not in earthly leaders, but in the unchanging faithfulness of Christ. We are invited to step into a new beginning, to trust God with our doubts and fears, and to walk in the peace and power of the resurrection. As we partake in communion, we proclaim the Lord’s death and resurrection, anchoring our faith in the One who calls us to believe, to trust, and to be agents of His peace in a troubled world.
Key Takeaways
- The Power of the Cross and Resurrection in Daily Life
The cross is not just a symbol of past sacrifice, but an invitation to lay down every burden, fear, and disappointment at Jesus’ feet. The resurrection is a living reality that empowers us to walk in freedom and hope, not just on Easter, but every day we gather as believers. This ongoing celebration of resurrection life calls us to continually surrender our struggles and trust in Christ’s victory. [45:37]
- Fear and Doubt Are Part of the Journey, Not the End
The disciples’ fear after the crucifixion was real and paralyzing, yet Jesus met them in their locked room, offering peace and restoration. Our own fears—whether of failure, insignificance, or the unknown—do not disqualify us from God’s presence or purpose. Instead, Jesus steps into our fears, bringing peace that restores and empowers us to move forward. [49:19]
- Faith Is Not the Absence of Doubt, but Trust Amid Uncertainty
Thomas’ story shows that doubt is not a sin, but a part of the human experience. Jesus does not shame us for our questions; He invites us to seek, to examine the evidence, and to bring our honest doubts before Him. True faith often grows in the soil of honest questioning, and Jesus honors those who believe even when they have not seen. [01:01:57]
- Our Scars and Wounds Become Testimonies of God’s Grace
Jesus’ resurrected body still bore the scars of crucifixion, serving as marks of identification and reminders of His love. Likewise, our own scars—physical, emotional, or spiritual—can become testimonies of God’s faithfulness and redemption. God uses our wounds not as sources of shame, but as evidence of His power to heal and restore. [01:11:23]
- Allegiance to God’s Kingdom Transcends Earthly Politics and Uncertainty
In times of political change and societal fear, our ultimate loyalty must remain with the King of Kings. While we pray for our leaders and our nation, we are called to be people of compassion, justice, and peace, standing with those who are vulnerable and affected by the world’s systems. Our hope is anchored in God’s unchanging faithfulness, not in the shifting sands of human government. [01:52:29]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[45:37] - Laying Burdens at the Cross
[49:19] - Resurrection: A Living Reality
[52:29] - Overcoming Fear and Public Speaking
[57:42] - Jesus Appears to the Disciples
[01:00:56] - Thomas’ Doubt and the Evidence
[01:01:57] - Jesus Meets Us in Our Doubt
[01:05:16] - The Disciples’ Fear and Hiding
[01:08:38] - God’s Plan in Our Weakness
[01:11:23] - The Meaning of Peace (Shalom)
[01:15:00] - The Significance of Scars
[01:20:00] - Doubt, Faith, and Evidence
[01:30:00] - Faith Without Seeing
[01:40:00] - Communion: Proclaiming the Resurrection
[01:52:29] - Closing Blessing and Dismissal
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
John 20:19-31
*(Jesus appears to the disciples after the resurrection, offers them peace, shows his scars, and addresses Thomas’ doubts.)*
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### Observation Questions
1. When Jesus first appeared to the disciples after his resurrection, what was their emotional state and why were they gathered behind locked doors? ([57:42])
2. What did Jesus do and say when he appeared to the disciples in the locked room? ([57:42])
3. How did Thomas respond when the other disciples told him they had seen the Lord, and what did he say he needed in order to believe? ([01:00:56])
4. What was Jesus’ response to Thomas’ doubts when he appeared again eight days later? ([01:01:57])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to show the disciples his scars instead of just telling them he was alive? What might the scars represent for us today? ([01:11:23])
2. The disciples were hiding in fear and disappointment after Jesus’ death. What does Jesus’ greeting of “Peace be with you” mean in this context, and how is it different from a casual greeting? ([01:11:23])
3. Thomas is often called “Doubting Thomas.” According to the sermon, is doubt always a bad thing? How does Jesus treat Thomas’ doubt, and what does that teach us about faith and doubt coexisting? ([01:01:57])
4. The sermon mentions that the resurrection is not just a historical event but a living reality. What does it mean for the resurrection to be a “living reality” in the life of a believer? ([49:19])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon encourages us to lay every burden, fear, and disappointment at the foot of the cross. Is there a specific burden or fear you are carrying right now that you need to surrender to Jesus? What would it look like to actually leave it with him and not pick it back up? ([45:37])
2. The disciples’ fear kept them behind locked doors. Are there any “locked doors” in your life—places where fear or disappointment is keeping you from stepping out in faith? What is one step you could take this week to open that door? ([57:42])
3. Jesus met Thomas in his doubt and offered him evidence and compassion. When you experience doubts about your faith, how do you usually respond? Is there a way you can bring your honest questions to Jesus instead of hiding them? ([01:01:57])
4. The sermon says our scars—physical, emotional, or spiritual—can become testimonies of God’s grace. Is there a “scar” in your life that God has used, or could use, to encourage someone else? How might you share that story? ([01:11:23])
5. In a world filled with uncertainty and political change, the sermon reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom. Are there ways you have been tempted to put your hope in earthly leaders or systems? How can you shift your focus back to Christ this week? ([01:52:29])
6. The journey from the cross to Pentecost was marked by fear and uncertainty, but also by preparation for a new beginning. What is one area in your life where you sense God inviting you into a new beginning or deeper trust? ([01:01:57])
7. As we take communion, we proclaim the Lord’s death and resurrection. How does regularly remembering the cross and resurrection shape your daily life and decisions? ([01:45:42])
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*Feel free to use these questions to guide your group’s discussion, encourage honest sharing, and pray for one another as you seek to walk in the peace and power of the risen Christ.*
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus Brings Peace in the Midst of Fear
In the aftermath of Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples were gripped by fear, hiding behind locked doors, uncertain about their future and overwhelmed by disappointment and doubt. Yet, in their darkest moment, Jesus appeared among them and spoke, “Peace be with you.” This peace was not a mere greeting, but a deep, restorative shalom—a wholeness that only Christ can give. No matter what anxieties or uncertainties you face, Jesus steps into your situation and offers His peace, inviting you to lay down your burdens and trust in His presence to restore and make you whole. [57:42]
John 20:19-21 (ESV)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”
Reflection: What fear or anxiety are you holding onto today that you need to bring before Jesus and receive His peace in exchange?
Day 2: The Power and Evidence of the Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus is not just a story, but a historical event full of evidence—an empty tomb, eyewitness accounts, and transformed lives. Jesus showed His hands and side to the disciples, providing tangible proof of His victory over death. The stone was rolled away not for Jesus to escape, but so that others could see and believe. Our faith is rooted in this evidence, and we are called to know, defend, and share the truth of the risen Christ with confidence, trusting that He truly is alive and at work today. [58:00]
John 20:26-29 (ESV)
Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Reflection: How can you intentionally seek out and share the evidence of Jesus’ resurrection with someone who is struggling to believe?
Day 3: Wrestling with Doubt and Embracing Faith
Doubt is a natural part of the human experience—even the closest followers of Jesus struggled with it. Jesus did not condemn Thomas or the other disciples for their doubts; instead, He met them with compassion and provided what they needed to believe. Faith and doubt can coexist, and Jesus invites us to bring our uncertainties to Him, trusting that He will help us move from unbelief to belief. When we are honest about our doubts and seek the truth, God is faithful to reveal Himself and strengthen our faith. [01:13:00]
Mark 9:23-24 (ESV)
And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are struggling with doubt? How can you bring that specific doubt honestly to Jesus today and ask for His help?
Day 4: Called to Be Disciple-Makers and Witnesses
Every believer is called not only to follow Jesus but also to share their faith and make disciples. The resurrection empowered the disciples to move from fear and hiding to boldness and witness, and that same calling rests on us. Evangelism is not just for pastors or leaders; it is the responsibility and privilege of every Christian. As you reflect on what God has done in your life, consider how you can step out, engage your community, and be a living testimony of the risen Christ to those around you. [46:30]
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Reflection: Who is one person in your life you can intentionally reach out to this week to share your faith or encourage in their walk with Christ?
Day 5: Trusting God Amid Uncertainty and Worldly Change
In a world filled with political upheaval, fear, and uncertainty, believers are reminded that their ultimate allegiance is to the kingdom of God, not to earthly leaders or systems. God’s faithfulness endures through every season, and He promises never to forsake His people. No matter what changes around us, we are called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts, acknowledge Him in all our ways, and rest in the assurance that He will direct our paths and provide for our needs. [01:50:00]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Reflection: What is one area of uncertainty or change in your life or in the world that you need to surrender to God’s control and trust Him to guide you through?
Quotes
Based on the accounts that we have in the gospel, it seems that it was still dark when Jesus arose from the dead. Because the women had come to the tomb while it was yet dark. The scripture says that. So what happened actually in the resurrection Sunday morning, in the darkness, there was an early sunrise. S -O -N -R -I -S -E. In other words, the sun rose even while it was dark. Isn't that something to think about here today? That the sun rose in your darkness. In our darkness, in our trials, in our tribulations, in our fear, the sun rose above that. So we need to grasp that and hold into that heart. Because no matter what we face and what we go through in our life, we have to see that the sun has risen over us. And if the sun has risen, he has set us free. And the scripture says, whom the sun sets free is free indeed. Amen. So the disciples themselves, I believe that they didn't really take Jesus seriously when he told them that he was going to be carried away and be crucified. And on the third day, he would rise again. You know, even though they saw some signs and they saw some things. As a matter of fact, not long before that, Lazarus was waking up from a deep sleep, from death. Jesus called him out of a tomb. And I would think that seeing all of that and hearing Jesus say that, you know, the Son of Man has to go up to Jerusalem. He'll be arrested. He'll be tried. He'll be condemned. He'll be crucified. But on a third day, he'll rise again. [01:03:08] (86 seconds)
Why didn't he just, you know, come out of the tomb in the same way? You notice that he didn't come out that way, right? Have you noticed if you read the resurrection story? The stone had to be rolled away. Why? Have you ever thought about why? The tomb had to be rolled away so that the people who were coming from the outside could see the evidence that the tomb was empty. Now, Jesus in his spiritual body could have just come out of the tomb without moving the stone. But that would not have served the purpose of proving the resurrection. The stone had to be rolled away. So the angel came and rolled the stone, so the tomb is wide open. So when you come and you stand next to it, you realize, yes, this tomb is indeed empty, right? Does it make sense to you now? [00:59:57] (42 seconds)
You know, I remember Ben Dunphy last week. He said that sheep make sheep. Right? The shepherd takes care of the sheep. But sheep make sheep. In other words, every single one of us, we are called to be disciple makers. And we are called to bring people into the fellowship of the faith. You know, some people think evangelizing is only for the pastors and the Christian leaders and the evangelists and so on. No! It's for every single one of us. Because when you accepted the call of salvation, I want you to know that you also signed up to be a witness for Christ. [00:55:56] (39 seconds)
peace be unto you but it has the same connotation as well and that's what Jesus does when he comes into the midst of them he says peace be unto you and I'll tell you this right now if anybody else says peace be unto you if anybody says shalom unto you well yes we could just take it at faith value but when Jesus says my peace I leave with you you can take that to the bank in other words you can hold on to that because you understand he's saying something that is powerful so in the moments of deepest despair and seeming hopelessness Jesus is saying to them I am here to restore you to fullness I'm here to bring you back into that place that you ought to be I'm here to bring you back into that place of restoration and goodness and I want everything to be good with you you know that's how Jesus feels about us today I want you to know that you might be in your own situation you may be going through something in life right now you may be struggling with something but Jesus is saying peace be unto you I want you to have that peace I want you to experience the peace of God amen he wants us to have restitution of all things and then a little bit later on [01:13:41] (74 seconds)
And I would have the answer. But I would be afraid to put my hands up and give the answer. I would just be terrified of saying that. And I would tell my friends, I would tell the people around me, oh, that's the answer. And they would stand up and give the answer and get all the applause and everything else. I'm feeling foolish in the corner here. But when I wanted to get into ministry, you know, I said to the Lord, I said, you know, that's a problem for me. And I really need you to deal with that. And I believe that so far to this point, God has dealt with that. There are times when the enemy will come back and say, you know, you have that. And I will feel a little bit, but at the end of the day, I understand that I've overcome through Jesus Christ. And the reason why, I remember growing up as well, one of my key verses of Scripture that I would quote over and over again, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. So if you're fearful or you're concerned or maybe there are things that you feel that you can't do, if we can say that over and over again in our minds and believe that through Christ I can do all things, you will overcome. [00:52:29] (60 seconds)
Thomas answered and said to him, my Lord and my God. And Jesus said to him, Thomas, because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. That's us. We have not actually seen in that sense in the way that Thomas saw, but yet we believe after the fact, right, because of the eyewitnesses. And truly, Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that believing you may have life in his name. Now, Jesus arose from the dead early Sunday morning. [01:02:28] (40 seconds)
No matter what they might be, whatever you've gone through, maybe there are some things that you've been struggling with for some time, and just, the trick is to just leave it in the hands of God. You know, sometimes it affects us emotionally, but we have to come to that place where we can say, God, I'm just leaving this over to you, and I'm just walking away from it because I can't handle it, God, so I'm giving it to you, and let him take you, hallelujah. This morning we have communion, we have the communion service, and I know that you have your communion emblems in your hand, and take a moment right now and open it up, and I'm going to ask for the minister Sean to come and to pray and ask God's blessing upon the cup and the bread. We just want to remind you that communion is very, very important, it's essential for us, and it's a reminder. Paul says, as often as you do this, you show the Lord's death until he comes. Isn't that something? So you're actually testifying this morning, and you're proclaiming Jesus died upon the cross, and he resurrected on the third day. Amen. Sean, can you just pray for these, the cup and the bread today as we get ready? Father [01:45:42] (66 seconds)
Hallelujah, thank you Jesus What was the response of Thomas after he had seen the evidence? Scripture says he fell on his face before Jesus And he declared, my Lord and my God You know, that's the response that we need to have When we come into the presence of God this morning To call upon him, say, my Lord and my God To worship him, to fall on our faces before him Hallelujah And [01:51:34] (32 seconds)
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