Responding to the Power of the Resurrection
Summary
The Word of God stands unchanging and eternal, even as everything else in life fades. God has entered our story, intercepting our sin and offering us new birth and eternal life through Jesus Christ. The resurrection is not just a miraculous event, but the culmination of a real, historical life—virgin birth, sinless living, sacrificial death, actual burial, and triumphant resurrection. If the resurrection is true, then nothing is impossible for God, and every burden, worry, or heartache can be brought to Him with hope.
The resurrection is grounded in objective evidence, not just tradition or feeling. Hundreds of witnesses, including the apostles, women, and many others, testified to seeing the risen Christ, often at great personal cost. Their willingness to suffer and even die for this truth speaks to the reality of what they experienced. Faith is not a leap into the dark, but a response to credible testimony and the work of God in the heart.
Among the witnesses are those whose stories challenge and encourage us. Peter, who denied Jesus, reminds us that even the most passionate followers can fail, but Christ’s grace restores the repentant. Judas, who betrayed Jesus, shows that proximity to spiritual things does not guarantee genuine faith. Pilate, the politician, demonstrates that power and influence do not equate to wisdom or spiritual insight; the fear of losing status can keep us from truth.
The resurrection calls for a response. It is not enough to be near the truth or to admire it from a distance. God gives the gift of faith, and those who sense even a small desire to believe should recognize this as God’s work in them. The call is to let go of whatever holds us back—fear, comfort, reputation—and to receive the life that Christ offers. The evidence is sufficient, the witnesses are many, and the invitation is open: believe, and find life in His name.
Key Takeaways
- The resurrection is anchored in real, historical events and credible eyewitness testimony. Faith in Christ is not a call to blind belief, but a response to the overwhelming evidence of His life, death, and resurrection, as attested by hundreds who were willing to suffer and die rather than deny what they had seen. This challenges us to examine the evidence honestly and recognize that God invites thoughtful, sincere faith. [03:22]
- God uses all kinds of people as witnesses—men and women, rich and poor, bold and timid. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus show that faith sometimes requires courage to step out of the shadows, using our resources and influence for God’s glory. Even those who come to Jesus quietly or with hesitation are welcomed and transformed, reminding us that every journey toward Christ is unique and valuable. [12:16]
- Failure does not disqualify us from God’s grace or purpose. Peter’s denial and subsequent restoration reveal that strong intentions are not enough to guarantee faithfulness, but Christ’s love is sufficient to restore the repentant. Our security is not in our own ability to hold on to God, but in His unwavering grip on us, and His willingness to forgive and restore those who return to Him in humility. [27:03]
- Proximity to spiritual things does not guarantee genuine faith. Judas was close to Jesus, yet his heart was far away, and his betrayal was hidden even from those closest to him. This warns us against complacency and self-deception, urging us to pursue authentic relationship with Christ and genuine community with others, rather than relying on appearances or mere association. [33:03]
- The pressures of society, family, or personal ambition can keep us from embracing Christ fully, as seen in Pilate’s story. True wisdom and spiritual life are not found in power, education, or influence, but in surrendering to Christ, even at the cost of reputation or comfort. The call is to let go of what we cannot keep, in order to gain what we cannot lose—life in Christ. [39:59]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:48] - The Resurrection Story: Matthew 28
[03:22] - Real Evidence and Real Faith
[04:25] - The Witnesses Who Testified
[06:54] - Apostles and Their Testimony
[08:45] - Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus
[12:16] - Born of Water and Spirit
[13:37] - The Emmaus Road and the Power of Gathering
[15:36] - Women as Witnesses
[16:28] - Countless Changed Lives
[18:01] - The 500 Eyewitnesses
[19:30] - Why the Testimony Was Written
[23:31] - The Gift of Faith and the Limits of Evidence
[24:25] - Peter: The Disciple Who Denied
[27:03] - Restoration After Failure
[29:23] - Judas: The Traitor Who Sold Him
[33:03] - The Need for Genuine Community
[35:06] - God’s Sovereignty Over Betrayal
[36:00] - Pilate: The Politician Who Traded Him
[39:59] - The Cost of Following Christ
[41:23] - Responding to the Resurrection
[43:09] - Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Resurrection—Evidence, Witness, and Response
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### Bible Reading
- Matthew 28:1-10 (The Resurrection Story)
- 1 Corinthians 15:5-8 (Eyewitnesses of the Resurrection)
- John 20:30-31 (Purpose of the Written Testimony)
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### Observation Questions
1. In Matthew 28:1-10, who were the first people to witness the empty tomb and the risen Jesus? What was their reaction?
2. According to 1 Corinthians 15:5-8, how many people saw the risen Jesus, and who are some of the specific witnesses mentioned?
3. What reason does John 20:30-31 give for why the signs and stories about Jesus were written down?
4. The sermon mentioned that both men and women, rich and poor, bold and timid, were witnesses to the resurrection. Can you name some of these witnesses mentioned in the sermon? [[08:45]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says the resurrection is not just a miracle, but the culmination of a real, historical life. Why is it important that the resurrection is grounded in real events and eyewitness testimony, not just tradition or feelings? [[03:22]]
2. Peter denied Jesus three times, but was later restored by Jesus. What does Peter’s story teach about failure and restoration in the Christian life? [[27:03]]
3. Judas was close to Jesus and the other disciples, but still betrayed Him. What does this tell us about the difference between being near spiritual things and having genuine faith? [[33:03]]
4. Pilate had power and influence, but still chose to please the crowd instead of doing what was right. What does his story reveal about the dangers of seeking approval from others over following God? [[39:59]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon says the resurrection means nothing is impossible for God, and every burden or heartache can be brought to Him with hope. Is there a specific burden or worry you are carrying right now that you need to bring to God in light of the resurrection? [[07:40]]
2. The witnesses of the resurrection were willing to suffer and even die for what they saw. How does their courage challenge you in your own faith? Are there areas where you feel hesitant to stand up for what you believe? [[03:22]]
3. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus used their resources and influence for God’s glory, even when it was risky. Is there a way you could use your own resources, time, or influence to serve God or others this week, even if it feels uncomfortable? [[08:45]]
4. Peter’s failure did not disqualify him from God’s grace or purpose. Is there a past failure or regret that makes you feel unworthy or distant from God? How does Peter’s restoration encourage you to come back to Jesus? [[27:03]]
5. Judas’s story warns that being close to spiritual things does not guarantee real faith. Are there ways you might be relying on appearances, habits, or just being around church instead of pursuing a real relationship with Jesus? [[33:03]]
6. Pilate’s fear of losing status kept him from doing what was right. Are there people or situations in your life where you feel pressure to fit in or keep your reputation, even if it means compromising your faith? How can you respond differently? [[39:59]]
7. The sermon says that even a small desire to believe is God’s work in your heart. If you sense that desire, what is one step you can take this week to respond to God’s invitation and grow in faith? [[23:31]]
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Close in prayer, asking God to help each person respond to the evidence of the resurrection with sincere faith, courage, and a willingness to let go of anything that holds them back from following Christ.
Devotional
Day 1: Faith Rooted in Historical Reality and Eyewitness Testimony
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely a tradition or a feeling but is anchored in real, historical events supported by credible eyewitness testimony. Hundreds of witnesses, including apostles and women, testified to seeing the risen Christ, often enduring persecution and death rather than denying what they had experienced. This challenges believers to honestly examine the evidence and recognize that faith is a thoughtful, sincere response to God’s invitation, not a blind leap into the dark. When you consider the resurrection, remember that it stands on the foundation of truth that has withstood scrutiny and opposition. [03:22]
“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.” — 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (ESV)
Reflection: What evidence for the resurrection have you encountered that strengthens your faith, and how can you intentionally remind yourself of this truth when doubts arise today?
Day 2: Courageous Faith from Every Walk of Life
God calls and uses a diverse array of people as witnesses to His work—men and women, the bold and the hesitant, the rich and the poor. Figures like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus demonstrate that faith often requires stepping out of comfort zones and using one’s resources and influence for God’s glory. Even those who approach Jesus quietly or with hesitation are welcomed and transformed, showing that every journey toward Christ is unique and valuable. This reminds you that your own story, no matter how ordinary or hesitant, is precious in God’s eyes and that courage to step forward in faith is always honored. [12:16]
“Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action.” — Luke 23:50-51 (ESV)
Reflection: What is one small step of faith or courage you can take today to move out of the shadows and actively participate in God’s work around you?
Day 3: Restoration Beyond Failure
Failure does not disqualify anyone from God’s grace or purpose. Peter’s denial of Jesus and his subsequent restoration reveal that even the most passionate followers can stumble, but Christ’s love is sufficient to forgive and restore those who return in humility. Your security is not in your own strength or ability to remain faithful but in God’s unwavering grip and willingness to restore. This truth encourages you to come to God honestly with your failures, trusting that He is ready to renew and use you for His purposes. [27:03]
“But Peter said to him, ‘Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!’ And all the disciples said the same.” — Matthew 26:35 (ESV)
Reflection: Is there a failure or regret you have been carrying that you need to bring before God today, trusting Him to restore and use you despite it?
Day 4: Guarding Against Complacency in Faith
Proximity to spiritual things does not guarantee genuine faith. Judas was close to Jesus, yet his heart was far from Him, and his betrayal was hidden even from those closest to him. This warns against complacency and self-deception, urging you to pursue an authentic relationship with Christ and genuine community with others. Faith is more than appearances or association; it requires ongoing self-examination and commitment to truth. Reflect on your own spiritual life and ask whether you are truly connected to Christ or merely near Him in form. [33:03]
“Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them.” — Luke 22:3 (ESV)
Reflection: In what ways might you be relying on outward appearances or associations rather than cultivating a deep, authentic relationship with Christ today?
Day 5: Surrendering Comfort for Eternal Life
The pressures of society, family, and personal ambition can keep people from fully embracing Christ, as seen in Pilate’s story. True wisdom and spiritual life are not found in power, education, or influence but in surrendering to Christ, even at the cost of reputation or comfort. The call is to let go of what cannot be kept in order to gain what cannot be lost—life in Christ. This challenges you to identify what you are holding onto that hinders full surrender and to trust God with the cost of following Him. [39:59]
“So Pilate said to him, ‘You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?’ Jesus answered him, ‘You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.’” — John 19:10-11 (ESV)
Reflection: What is one comfort, reputation, or ambition you need to release today in order to follow Christ more fully and experience the life He offers?
Quotes
The Bible says that flowers fade and the grass withers, but the Word of God stands forever. This Word of God that stands forever has recorded for us a very plain and simple thing, that God has intercepted our sin. He has incorporated Himself into our story so that we might be born again and have eternal wife. The Bible says that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life. [00:00:08] (26 seconds)
If the resurrection is true, if death could not hold Him, if the devil could not defeat Him, if the world and all the spears and the thorn of crowns, the crown of thorns, if they couldn't stop it, then what of our difficulties? If the resurrection is true, then all things are possible. Hear the resurrection story. [00:01:26] (23 seconds)
And in any court of law, I ask you to consider yourself a juror. If 500 eyewitnesses came forward and says, I saw the thing, the jurist would be really compelled to act in accordance with evidence. [00:05:27] (15 seconds)
But the resurrection is true, and if it is true, if it is, nothing's impossible. That means, according to the Word of God, we can bring our burdens and cares to Him so that we might find grace and help in our time of need. [00:07:49] (17 seconds)
Joseph against the potential societal ridicule, family conflict, because all of us, if we believe, have family conflict with some people. They don't agree with us, and they find us ignorant, unlearned, and simple people. Well, that's okay. That categorizes us with the disciples who changed the world. [00:09:04] (22 seconds)
And I suppose this religious leader, who was a renowned Jewish leader, he must have thought, then Jesus is going to say, if I'm good or if I've kept the law really well, I can hope for eternal life. And Jesus said, no, you must be born again. [00:12:01] (15 seconds)
Do not forsake the assembling together of yourselves as the manner of some have done. But all the more when you see the day approaching. But most of all, when you recognize that this word of God that does not fail, does not fade and does not wither, has not only promised this risen Lord who's ascended and interceding for us, the Bible promises the Lord Jesus will return with the voice of the archangel. The trumpet of God will sound and God will begin, will complete the writing of the ruin and the pain that we carry in our lives. One day, Jesus will make it right. [00:14:26] (39 seconds)
Even though they were crucified, stoned, stabbed, dragged, skinned, burned, every last apostle of Jesus proclaimed his resurrection until his dying breath, refusing to recant under pressure from the authorities. Therefore, their testimony is trustworthy, and the resurrection is true. If we have any humility toward evidence at all, then we'd have to say, look at the evidence. [00:21:04] (27 seconds)
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