Come, See, Go, Tell: Resurrection Sends Us

Celebration of the resurrection centers on Matthew 28:1–10, where Mary Magdalene and the other Mary discover the empty tomb, witness an angel, and meet the risen Jesus. The narrative emphasizes the historic and factual reality of the resurrection, portraying it as the decisive event that changes everything for those who trust Christ. Two women emerge as the story’s unsung heroes: they remain when others flee, return to tend the body, and become the first witnesses to life conquering death. Their devotion, courage, and immediate obedience shape the first evangelistic action of the new era — come, see, go, and tell.

A contemporary example of faithful attentiveness illustrates the same pattern: a former highway patrol officer intentionally positions himself where hurting people gather, starts simple conversations, and offers the hope of continued presence. That practical compassion rescues life, mirrors the women’s faithful guardianship, and models how ordinary proximity and care can open doors to long-term transformation.

Four clear lessons arise from the scene at the tomb. First, compassion flows from a relationship with Jesus; these women returned out of deep love, not duty. Second, courage does not erase fear; it moves forward despite trembling, as the women obey the angel’s command to proclaim the news. Third, authentic joy can coexist with fear; “afraid yet filled with joy” captures the paradox of resurrection faith that refuses despair. Finally, worship grounds the response: touching the risen Lord dismantles doubt and evokes immediate adoration, then sends the witnesses out to restore others.

The narrative concludes with grace toward those who fled. Jesus commissions the women to tell “my brothers” to meet him in Galilee, modeling forgiveness, restoration, and renewed mission. That same pattern — intimate love, courageous presence, joy amid trial, and worship that leads to witness — forms the blueprint for a life that matters. The passage issues a simple invitation: receive the risen Christ, let the Holy Spirit restore and empower, and find the particular place where resurrection life can flow through ordinary routines into the city and the world.

Key Takeaways

• 1. Compassion rooted in deep love These women returned to the tomb because their devotion to Jesus drove them, not obligation. Compassion that endures hardship arises from proximity to Christ: when love for him shapes attention, ordinary acts of care become conduits of grace for desperate people. Such compassion notices pain, stays long enough to listen, and commits to follow-up presence that can alter life trajectories. [35:39]
• 2. Courage moves despite real fear Encountering a violent earthquake, angelic brightness, and guarded soldiers did not stop the women; fear existed, but obedience moved them forward. Courage in the gospel is not the absence of trembling; it is faith choosing mission over retreat when God commands “go and tell.” Such courage reorients risk toward proclamation and service, trusting that the risen Lord equips fragile hands. [41:56]
• 3. Joy coexists with honest fear “Afraid yet filled with joy” captures how resurrection hope transforms emotional complexity into active witness. Joy here is not denial of danger but the inner surge that springs from contact with the living Christ and the assurance that death no longer has the final word. That joy sustains mission when circumstances remain uncertain and fuels perseverance in ordinary ministries. [49:50]
• 4. Worship follows resurrection encounter The women clasped Jesus’ feet, felt the reality of his body, and responded with worship before any strategic plan. Real worship arises from sure knowledge: touching the risen Lord shifts cognition into awe, and awe moves immediately into confession and mission. Worship both grounds personal faith and refocuses energy outward, sending witnesses to reconcile and restore others. [55:39]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [24:53] - Easter greeting and context
• [26:47] - Reading: Matthew 28:1–10
• [28:32] - Prayer and affirmation of the resurrection
• [30:16] - Does your life really matter?
• [30:50] - Kevin Briggs: compassion in practice
• [34:58] - Lesson 1: Compassion and devotion
• [41:56] - Lesson 2: Courage amid fear and mission
• [49:50] - Lesson 3: Joy that endures
• [55:39] - Lesson 4: Worshipful response and touch
• [57:06] - Restoration, commission, and invitation
• [66:10] - Benediction and closing

1. What specific instructions did the angel give to the women at the tomb, and what were the key action verbs used?
2. How is the emotional state of the women described in verse 8, and what two seemingly opposite emotions did they experience simultaneously?
3. What was the women's physical response upon recognizing the risen Jesus in verse 9?
4. Who specifically did Jesus tell the women to go and tell, and what does this reveal about his heart toward them [57:28]?

1. The women's compassion was described as being rooted in a deep love for Jesus, not obligation [35:39]. Why is the source of our compassion so important for it to be genuine and enduring?
2. The women were "afraid yet filled with joy." How can these two emotions—fear and joy—coexist in a believer's life, especially when facing difficult circumstances [49:50]?
3. Jesus referred to the disciples who had abandoned him as "my brothers" [57:28]. What does this teach us about the nature of God's grace, forgiveness, and restoration?
4. The women's act of clasping Jesus' feet was a moment of worship that came from a tangible encounter [55:39]. How does a real encounter with the living Christ naturally lead to worship and then to mission?

1. Compassion that endures hardship arises from proximity to Christ [35:39]. What is one practical way you can draw closer to Jesus this week to ensure your acts of care for others flow from love for him, rather than mere duty?
2. Courage in the gospel is not the absence of trembling, but faith choosing mission over retreat [41:56]. Where in your life are you feeling fear, but know God is calling you to "go and tell"?
3. Joy is described as an inner surge that springs from contact with the living Christ [49:50]. When circumstances are uncertain or difficult, what specific spiritual practices help you reconnect with the joy of your salvation?
4. The women were sent back to a "special place," their area of ministry and familiarity [45:00]. Where is your "special place" — your neighborhood, workplace, gym, or coffee shop — where God has positioned you to be a witness? Who in that place needs you to notice their pain and offer the hope of continued presence [33:35]?
5. Worship arises from sure knowledge and shifts cognition into awe, which then moves into mission [55:39]. How can you intentionally create space in your routine for worship that is based on the truth of who Jesus is, and how might that refocus your energy outward?
6. The resurrection is a fact that changes everything [29:29]. If you truly believe death has been defeated, how should that truth reshape your perspective on a current challenge or grief you are facing?