God's Faithfulness Revealed Through Christ's Resurrection

 

Summary

The world we live in often treats promises lightly, as seen in the prevalence of broken commitments and high divorce rates. Yet, the resurrection of Christ stands as a powerful reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises. By examining the resurrection accounts in the Gospels, we see how they fulfill the promises made in the Old Testament. Each Gospel offers a unique perspective on the resurrection, highlighting different aspects of its significance.

In Matthew 28, the testimony of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection is a profound statement. In a culture where women's testimonies were often dismissed, the fact that they were the first to witness and proclaim the resurrection underscores the authenticity and counter-cultural nature of the Gospel. This account challenges us to trust in the unexpected ways God works.

Mark 16 provides a personal touch with the inclusion of Peter's name in the angel's message. This detail emphasizes the grace extended to those who have failed, like Peter, who denied Christ. The Gospel is for those who feel unworthy, reminding us that God's grace is sufficient for all, even the most broken among us.

Luke 24 presents the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, where Jesus opens their eyes to the truth of the Scriptures. This encounter teaches us the importance of seeing Christ throughout the entire Bible, recognizing that the Old Testament points to Him. It also highlights the necessity of divine revelation for understanding the truth of the resurrection.

In John 20, we see the intimate moment between Jesus and Mary Magdalene, where her eyes are opened to recognize Him. This encounter in a garden symbolizes the restoration of what was lost in the Garden of Eden. Additionally, Thomas's declaration of faith, "My Lord and my God," serves as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divinity and the blessedness of believing without seeing.

The resurrection accounts collectively reveal the physical reality of Jesus' resurrection and the profound love of God for humanity. They remind us of the hope and assurance we have in Christ, who fulfills His promises and meets us in our brokenness with grace and truth.

Key Takeaways:

1. The resurrection of Christ is a testament to God's faithfulness, fulfilling the promises made in the Old Testament. It challenges us to trust in God's unexpected ways, as seen in the testimony of women as the first witnesses. [00:59]

2. The inclusion of Peter's name in Mark's account highlights the grace extended to those who have failed. The Gospel is for the broken and unworthy, reminding us that God's grace is sufficient for all. [05:22]

3. The encounter on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24 teaches us to see Christ throughout the Scriptures. It emphasizes the necessity of divine revelation for understanding the truth of the resurrection. [09:14]

4. John's account of Mary Magdalene's encounter with Jesus in the garden symbolizes the restoration of what was lost in Eden. It highlights the personal and intimate nature of our relationship with Christ. [16:44]

5. Thomas's declaration of faith in John 20 affirms Jesus' divinity and the blessedness of believing without seeing. It encourages us to walk by faith, trusting in the testimony of the apostles. [19:48]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:25] - The Importance of Promises
- [00:59] - Resurrection in the Gospels
- [01:38] - Testimony of Women
- [02:51] - Belief and Unbelief
- [04:02] - Mark's Unique Details
- [05:22] - Grace for the Broken
- [07:34] - Road to Emmaus
- [09:52] - Divine Revelation
- [13:08] - Physical Reality of Resurrection
- [16:11] - Encounter in the Garden
- [18:46] - Restoration and Redemption
- [19:48] - Thomas's Declaration
- [21:07] - Walking by Faith
- [22:29] - God's Love for Sinners

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Matthew 28:1-10
2. Mark 16:6-7
3. Luke 24:13-27
4. John 20:11-29

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Observation Questions:

1. In Matthew 28:1-10, why is the testimony of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection significant in the cultural context of the time? [01:38]

2. What is the significance of the angel specifically mentioning Peter in Mark 16:7, and how does this detail differ from the account in Matthew? [05:22]

3. In Luke 24:13-27, what was the reaction of the disciples on the road to Emmaus when Jesus explained the Scriptures to them? How did their understanding change? [09:14]

4. How does Thomas's interaction with Jesus in John 20:24-29 highlight the theme of belief and doubt? What was Thomas's response to seeing Jesus? [19:48]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the inclusion of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection in Matthew 28 challenge societal norms and what does it reveal about the nature of the Gospel? [02:11]

2. What does the mention of Peter in Mark 16:7 suggest about God's grace towards those who have failed, and how might this be comforting to believers today? [06:05]

3. In Luke 24, why is it significant that Jesus opened the disciples' eyes to see Him in the Scriptures? How does this encounter emphasize the importance of divine revelation? [09:52]

4. How does Thomas's declaration of faith in John 20:28 serve as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divinity, and what does it teach about the blessedness of believing without seeing? [20:26]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt unworthy of God's grace. How does Peter's story in Mark 16:7 encourage you to embrace God's forgiveness and grace? [06:53]

2. The testimony of women in Matthew 28 challenges us to trust in God's unexpected ways. Can you think of a situation where God worked in an unexpected way in your life? How did it impact your faith? [02:51]

3. In what ways can you actively seek to see Christ throughout the Scriptures, as demonstrated in the encounter on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24? How might this change your approach to Bible study? [11:07]

4. Thomas's story in John 20 encourages us to walk by faith. Is there an area in your life where you struggle to believe without seeing? How can you take steps to trust God more fully in that area? [19:48]

5. Consider the personal and intimate nature of Mary Magdalene's encounter with Jesus in John 20. How can you cultivate a more personal and intimate relationship with Christ in your daily life? [18:05]

6. The resurrection accounts remind us of the hope and assurance we have in Christ. How can you share this hope with someone in your life who may be struggling with doubt or unbelief? [23:08]

7. Reflect on the physical reality of Jesus' resurrection and its implications for how we view our own physical bodies. How can this understanding influence the way you care for your body and the material world around you? [15:31]

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting in God's Unconventional Faithfulness
The resurrection of Christ is a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness, fulfilling the promises made in the Old Testament. In a world where promises are often broken, the resurrection stands as a beacon of hope and assurance. The Gospel accounts, particularly in Matthew 28, highlight the unexpected ways God works, such as choosing women as the first witnesses to the resurrection. In a culture where women's testimonies were often disregarded, this choice underscores the authenticity and counter-cultural nature of the Gospel. It challenges us to trust in God's unexpected ways and to recognize that His plans often defy human expectations. [00:59]

Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Reflection: In what area of your life is God calling you to trust His unconventional ways, even when they don't align with your expectations?


Day 2: Grace for the Unworthy
Mark 16 provides a personal touch with the inclusion of Peter's name in the angel's message, emphasizing the grace extended to those who have failed. Peter, who denied Christ, is specifically mentioned, highlighting that the Gospel is for the broken and unworthy. This detail serves as a powerful reminder that God's grace is sufficient for all, even the most broken among us. It encourages us to embrace the grace offered to us and to extend it to others, recognizing that no one is beyond the reach of God's love and forgiveness. [05:22]

2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about God's grace today? How can you share this message with them in a tangible way?


Day 3: Seeing Christ in All of Scripture
The encounter on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24 teaches us the importance of seeing Christ throughout the Scriptures. Jesus opens the disciples' eyes to the truth of the Scriptures, revealing how the Old Testament points to Him. This encounter emphasizes the necessity of divine revelation for understanding the truth of the resurrection and encourages us to seek Christ in all of Scripture. It challenges us to deepen our understanding of the Bible and to recognize the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history. [09:14]

Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV): "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."

Reflection: How can you intentionally seek to see Christ in your daily Bible reading? What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of His presence throughout Scripture?


Day 4: Restoration in the Garden
John 20 presents the intimate moment between Jesus and Mary Magdalene, where her eyes are opened to recognize Him. This encounter in a garden symbolizes the restoration of what was lost in the Garden of Eden. It highlights the personal and intimate nature of our relationship with Christ, reminding us that He meets us in our brokenness and offers restoration and redemption. This account encourages us to seek a deeper, more personal relationship with Christ, recognizing that He desires to restore and redeem every aspect of our lives. [16:44]

Revelation 21:5 (ESV): "And he who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new.' Also he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'"

Reflection: What area of your life needs restoration and redemption? How can you invite Christ into that area today to begin the process of healing?


Day 5: Walking by Faith
Thomas's declaration of faith in John 20, "My Lord and my God," serves as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divinity and the blessedness of believing without seeing. This account encourages us to walk by faith, trusting in the testimony of the apostles and the truth of the resurrection. It challenges us to embrace a faith that goes beyond what we can see and to trust in the promises of God, even when they seem distant or unclear. This kind of faith requires a deep reliance on God's character and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. [19:48]

Hebrews 11:1 (ESV): "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to walk by faith? What practical steps can you take today to trust God more fully in that area?

Quotes

"We live in a time that does not take promises seriously, and that is evidenced by the rampant divorce rates we see and the ease, I think, on a more personal level, even if you have never experienced divorce, with which we break our word. 'I'll be home at 5:45,' we say, and then we show up at 6:15 habitually. And it may seem like a small thing, but if we do it often enough, then we become those kind of people who are unreliable with our word." [00:00:06]

"But on a more serious level, the resurrection of Christ reminds us that the fulfillment of the promises of God comes to their fruition in the resurrection of our Lord from the dead. So what we want to do in our time together now is to look at the resurrection of Christ in the Gospels. We have looked at it in the Old Testament. We are now going to look at it in the Gospels and then go from there to look at it in Acts and the rest of the New Testament." [00:00:37]

"And what we see in each instance is that the resurrection fulfills the promises God made to us in the Old Testament. Well, let's start off then in Matthew chapter 28 in verses 1 through 10. I'll just read the first verse there, and we'll focus on details among the four Gospel accounts, each one bringing out a different facet of what the resurrection means for us." [00:01:04]

"And so, when we come to the resurrection account which capstones each Gospel, it's the high point of each Gospel which is what lead one scholar to say, 'The Gospels are essentially passion narratives with resurrection accounts.' And when you come to the end there and you come to this verse, it would have been shocking for the original readers to hear the first witnesses to the most exciting miracle that God ever did were women, were two women that came to see the tomb." [00:02:17]

"Now again, look at the details of this text that are different from the Matthean account. And these two words here that are only found in Mark's account are so instructive for us, my friends. Now, scholars will say, and I think this is right, that Mark is likely writing the eyewitness testimony of Peter. So, underwriting Mark's Gospel is Peter's account of what happened, and there are details throughout the text that kind of bring this out." [00:04:32]

"Surely, he is human like we are. Peter thought to himself, 'There's no hope for someone like me.' And then he hears this account from these two women who said, 'And oh, by the way, specifically the angels told us to tell you, "Go tell His disciples and Peter that He's going to meet you."' And that could be the gospel in two words, my friends, 'and Peter.'" [00:06:14]

"And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. So, same setting, resurrection. It has happened. This detail Luke puts in front of us is so instructive. So notice so many details here. Let's just focus on a few of them. 'They were kept from seeing Him.' And we are going to see this in John's Gospel too when Mary doesn't recognize Him, and once again that reminds us it's got to be the Lord who opens our eyes for us to see the truth of the resurrection." [00:09:24]

"And then he says, 'Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets,' which is a shorthand way of saying, 'The Old Testament.' He says, 'Here's what they teach about Me.' And again, we need to recover this understanding today as we have so much confusion about what the Old Testament is and what it does and how we are to read it. It is a Christ-centered book and a collection of books rather. It is a Christ-centered document. It is focusing, riveting our attention in every detail from the Psalms to Ecclesiastes, Jesus at the center." [00:11:44]

"Now, why were they startled and frightened? Well, because they thought they saw a spirit, but go down to verse 39. Here is what Jesus says, 'See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.' Now why is this important? One of the early heresies in the church was that Jesus was not really a man, that He just appeared to be a man." [00:13:09]

"Now John loves to do this. He loves to take the historical reality and remind us of the pregnant theology that underwrites it. Did you notice that little detail, 'supposing Him to be the gardener'? Now, where were Adam and Eve placed? In the garden. Where did the fall, where did all of the ruin that the resurrection has to undo come from? A garden. And this address, 'Woman,' by the way, that does not come through in our English translations, and Jesus uses it a few times in this Gospel." [00:17:15]

"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.' And notice what He says. We don't even have any indication that Thomas actually touched Him, but we have one of the strongest evidences for the deity of Christ, and this is the capstone of John's Gospel that began in John 1:1, 'In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.'" [00:19:36]

"So, all of these accounts show us the reality of the resurrection, but they also show us the reality of God's love for sinners like us. He is the God who is the God of 'and Peter.' He is the God who will say, 'The first people I appeared to will be the ones most forgotten in this society.' He is the God who will walk us through and show us all of where He comes from in the Old Testament, and He is the God who has got charcoal on His hands, and there is no other one like Him, and there is no one else we should trust or believe, given the reality of the resurrection and the reality of the God of resurrection." [00:22:42]

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Transcript
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