Rising to New Life: The Power of Resurrection

Devotional

Day 1: The Resurrection Defines Our Faith**

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christianity. It assures us that our faith is not in vain and that God's promises are sure to happen. This event signifies victory and the release of divine power into our lives, enabling us to live out our faith with confidence and hope. The resurrection is not just a historical event but a pivotal moment that defines our belief system. It is the ultimate proof that Jesus is who He claimed to be—the Son of God. This assurance empowers us to face life's challenges with the confidence that we are not alone and that our faith is grounded in a reality that transcends time and space.

The resurrection also signifies the release of divine power into our lives. This power enables us to overcome sin, live righteously, and fulfill our God-given purposes. It is a reminder that we are not left to our own devices but are empowered by the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. This divine empowerment is available to us daily, helping us to live out our faith boldly and confidently. [31:59]

1 Corinthians 15:17-20 (ESV): "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep."

Reflection: How does the resurrection of Jesus Christ empower you to face your current challenges with confidence and hope?

**

Day 2: Seek Jesus with Fervor**

Mary Magdalene and the disciples' urgency to seek Jesus, even after His death, challenges us to pursue Him with the same dedication. Their actions remind us that seeking Jesus should be a priority in our lives, regardless of our circumstances. This fervent pursuit leads to deeper intimacy with God and a more fulfilling spiritual life. Mary Magdalene's encounter with the empty tomb and the risen Christ is a powerful example of dedication and love. Despite the sorrow and confusion, she sought Jesus with all her heart, and her dedication was rewarded with the first appearance of the risen Lord.

This story challenges us to examine our own lives and our pursuit of Jesus. Are we seeking Him with the same fervor and commitment? Are we prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else? The disciples' urgency to seek Jesus, even after His death, serves as a powerful lesson for us. Their actions challenge us to seek Jesus with the same fervor and commitment, regardless of our circumstances. [39:26]

Jeremiah 29:13 (ESV): "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."

Reflection: What steps can you take today to seek Jesus with more fervor and dedication, regardless of your current circumstances?

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Day 3: Resurrection Brings Responsibilities**

Jesus' command to His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations highlights the responsibilities that come with the resurrection. We are called to be witnesses of Christ, sharing the good news and living out our faith boldly. This mission is not just for a select few but for all believers. The resurrection empowers us to be witnesses of Christ, to live out our faith boldly, and to share the good news with others. This mission is a collective responsibility that we all share as followers of Christ.

The resurrection brings with it a call to action. Jesus' appearance to His disciples and His command to go and make disciples of all nations remind us that we are sent to continue His work. This responsibility is not to be taken lightly. It requires us to step out of our comfort zones, to be bold in our faith, and to share the love of Christ with those around us. The resurrection empowers us to fulfill this mission, knowing that we are backed by the divine power that raised Jesus from the dead. [01:02:35]

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "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: How can you actively participate in the mission of making disciples in your community and beyond?

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Day 4: Peace in the Presence of Christ**

Jesus' greeting of "Peace be unto you" to His fearful disciples teaches us that true peace is found in the presence of Christ. This peace sustains us through trials and challenges, assuring us of God's constant presence and support. It is a reminder that peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God in our lives. The disciples were in a state of fear and confusion after Jesus' crucifixion. However, His appearance and His greeting of peace transformed their fear into joy and assurance.

This peace is available to us today. It is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Christ. When we invite His presence into our lives, we experience a peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace sustains us through trials and challenges, assuring us of God's constant presence and support. It is a reminder that true peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ in our lives. [01:00:13]

John 14:27 (ESV): "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to invite the peace of Christ today, and how can you make space for His presence?

**

Day 5: Respect for Authority and Identity in Christ**

Jesus' respect for the Father, even after His resurrection, teaches us to honor authority and live in obedience to God's will. The resurrection also affirms our identity as children of God, calling us to rise and shine, reflecting His light in our lives and communities. This identity empowers us to live purposefully and confidently. Jesus' respect for the Father, even after His resurrection, is a powerful lesson in humility and obedience. Despite His divine nature, He honored the Father's authority and submitted to His will.

As followers of Christ, we are called to do the same. We are to honor authority and live in obedience to God's will. This requires humility and a willingness to submit to God's plans for our lives. The resurrection also affirms our identity as children of God. We are called to rise and shine, reflecting His light in our lives and communities. This identity empowers us to live purposefully and confidently, knowing that we are loved and valued by our Creator. [51:46]

Ephesians 5:8-10 (ESV): "For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord."

Reflection: How can you honor authority and live in obedience to God's will in your daily life, and what steps can you take to reflect His light in your community?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we delved into the profound significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection is not just a historical event but a pivotal moment that defines Christianity. It assures us that our faith is not in vain and that the promises of God are sure to happen. The resurrection signifies victory and the release of divine power into our lives. Jesus rose so that we too can rise—rise to responsibilities, rise to new life, and rise to fulfill our God-given purposes.

We focused on John 20, where Mary Magdalene's encounter with the empty tomb and the risen Christ was highlighted. Her dedication and the disciples' urgency to seek Jesus, even after His death, serve as a powerful lesson for us. Their actions challenge us to seek Jesus with the same fervor and commitment, regardless of our circumstances.

The resurrection also brings responsibilities. Jesus' appearance to His disciples and His command to go and make disciples of all nations remind us that we are sent to continue His work. The resurrection empowers us to be witnesses of Christ, to live out our faith boldly, and to share the good news with others.

Moreover, the resurrection brings peace. Jesus' greeting of "Peace be unto you" to His fearful disciples teaches us that true peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ in our lives. This peace sustains us through trials and challenges, assuring us of God's constant presence and support.

Finally, the resurrection underscores the importance of respecting authority and recognizing our identity as children of God. Jesus' respect for the Father, even after His resurrection, teaches us to honor authority and live in obedience to God's will. As we embrace our identity in Christ, we are called to rise and shine, reflecting His light in our lives and communities.

###

Key Takeaways

1. The Resurrection Defines Our Faith: The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christianity. It assures us that our faith is not in vain and that God's promises are sure to happen. This event signifies victory and the release of divine power into our lives, enabling us to live out our faith with confidence and hope. [31:59]
2. Seek Jesus with Fervor: Mary Magdalene and the disciples' urgency to seek Jesus, even after His death, challenges us to pursue Him with the same dedication. Their actions remind us that seeking Jesus should be a priority in our lives, regardless of our circumstances. This fervent pursuit leads to deeper intimacy with God and a more fulfilling spiritual life. [39:26]
3. Resurrection Brings Responsibilities: Jesus' command to His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations highlights the responsibilities that come with the resurrection. We are called to be witnesses of Christ, sharing the good news and living out our faith boldly. This mission is not just for a select few but for all believers. [62:35]
4. Peace in the Presence of Christ: Jesus' greeting of "Peace be unto you" to His fearful disciples teaches us that true peace is found in the presence of Christ. This peace sustains us through trials and challenges, assuring us of God's constant presence and support. It is a reminder that peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God in our lives. [60:13]
5. Respect for Authority and Identity in Christ: Jesus' respect for the Father, even after His resurrection, teaches us to honor authority and live in obedience to God's will. The resurrection also affirms our identity as children of God, calling us to rise and shine, reflecting His light in our lives and communities. This identity empowers us to live purposefully and confidently. [51:46]
### [51:46]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[31:59] - The Significance of the Resurrection
[33:57] - He Rose for You to Rise
[35:36] - The Account of John 20
[37:22] - Mary Magdalene's Encounter
[39:26] - Seeking Jesus with Fervor
[41:06] - The Urgency to Seek Jesus
[42:49] - Loyalty and Commitment to Jesus
[45:12] - The Importance of Jesus in Our Lives
[47:43] - Jesus Proves His Resurrection
[50:00] - Respect for Authority
[51:46] - Our Identity in Christ
[55:23] - Women as First Witnesses
[58:14] - Jesus Brings Peace
[62:35] - Responsibilities of the Resurrection
[65:01] - The Mission to Make Disciples
[69:02] - The Call to Seek Jesus
[76:12] - Rising to Responsibilities
[81:00] - Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
[84:27] - Offering and Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What was Mary Magdalene's initial reaction when she found the empty tomb? ([37:22])
How did the disciples respond when they heard the news from Mary Magdalene about the empty tomb? ([40:00])
What did Jesus say to His disciples when He appeared to them after His resurrection? ([58:14])
How did Jesus demonstrate respect for authority after His resurrection? ([51:46])

Interpretation Questions

Why is the resurrection of Jesus considered the cornerstone of Christianity? How does it assure believers of their faith? ([31:59])
What does Mary Magdalene's dedication to seeking Jesus, even after His death, teach us about our own pursuit of Christ? ([39:26])
How does Jesus' greeting of "Peace be unto you" redefine the concept of peace for believers? ([01:00:13])
In what ways does the resurrection empower believers to take on new responsibilities and live out their faith boldly? ([01:02:35])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you felt your faith was in vain. How does the resurrection of Jesus reassure you in such moments? ([31:59])
Mary Magdalene and the disciples sought Jesus with urgency and dedication. What practical steps can you take to seek Jesus with the same fervor in your daily life? ([39:26])
Jesus' resurrection brings peace, not as the absence of trouble but as the presence of Christ. How can you cultivate this peace in your life, especially during challenging times? ([01:00:13])
Jesus respected authority even after His resurrection. How can you show respect for authority in your life while living in obedience to God's will? ([51:46])
The resurrection calls us to rise to new responsibilities. Identify one area in your life where you feel called to step up and take on more responsibility. How can you start doing that this week? ([01:02:35])
Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations is a responsibility for all believers. Who is one person in your life that you can share the good news with, and what steps will you take to do so? ([01:05:01])
Reflect on the role of peace in your life. Is there a specific situation where you need to invite the presence of Christ to bring peace? How will you do that this week? ([01:00:13])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "He rose for you to rise. So the resurrection of Jesus was not just an event that occurs or that occurred just so that we can know about it. But it was something that was to ignite and ignite something in us. It was something that took place to let us know the power and what the power of God can do also in our life." [34:29] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "In your quest to seek the Lord and to put God first, how when that thing is important to you. When that thing means a lot to you, that's when you'll be in haste to run to that thing. Praise the Lord. Things that are not valuable to you, you take your time and relax and get there whenever you want to get there. But things that are important to you, you do everything you can to be there on time." [41:06] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ. Amen. Peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ or the presence of God. In other words, you know, the fact that you are a Christian does not mean you will not face trouble at times. You will face trouble at times but what will make the difference and what will keep you at peace is the presence of Christ in your life." [01:00:13] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The resurrection is a reminder that you have been sent. Hallelujah. He reminds us that we have been sent. That's why I say that what he rose for us to rise to responsibilities for us to rise and be made rise and prove that indeed our Lord resurrected and the resurrection power is still at work and he's going to do that through you and through I." [01:03:10] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Seek him first, seek him continually, seek him diligently and heart. Don't just pretend putting God first is not optional for the followers of Christ. It is a requirement even seeking God first is not optional for the followers of Christ. It is a command. How much are you seeking him? God help us." [01:16:12] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "The resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is what you know defines or is one of the things that makes Christianity Christianity because if he did not resurrect then we are hoping in vain but because he did we can now believe him and you know be assured that his promises for us are not in vain but his promises for us are sure to happen and so grateful amen because it is in the resurrection that we have our victory." [31:59] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The people that we are reading about here were very loyal to Jesus. Very committed to him. And will do anything to seek him. To find him and do their best for him. Is it the same attitude we have towards serving God? Do we have the same attitude today? Towards the things of God? Towards Jesus, that we claim to be the Lord of our lives? How important it is for us to even get into the Word of God?" [42:49] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The resurrection comes with responsibilities. Amen. Resurrection is not just for us to go through the festivities oh Jesus rose again and we sing the song and we dance but he gave them assignment after resurrection he gave them assignment first he gave Mary Magdalene assignment go and tell those people I count again Jesus said unto them normal verse 29 verse 21 then said Jesus unto them again peace be unto you as my father hath sent me even so sent I you." [01:02:35] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The resurrection you know also brings us into the family of God. God you know the fatherhood of God become authenticated in our life we now call him Abba Father because Jesus rose again because until he rose again we are not calling God Father but when he died and rose again now he is introducing the Father to them I am going to my Father and your Father my God and your God so resurrection must bring you resurrection must help you to know your identity." [53:00] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The scriptures say of the same power that arose Jesus from the dead why are we there doing nothing why we are waiting for God to come he has done what he is supposed to do and he has delegated you to continue go into the world and preach as I was obedient to the father as the father sent me I am also sending you so there is a delegated authority to the resurrection if God is going to do anything on earth now he is going to and through to Christ." [01:06:34] (68 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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