Victory over death part 9

April 12, 2020

Sunday. The day after the Sabbath. Two days after Good Friday. This is the day Christians around the word celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

When we use the word “empty,” generally we use it in the negative sense: empty fuel tank, empty wallet, empty stomach, empty house… but at Easter we remember an empty cross and an empty tomb. The cross is empty, Jesus has moved on to something much more glorious, much more challenging, much more personal.

The women went to the tomb expecting a body that had been crucified. What they found was an empty tomb. “But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.” [Matthew 28:5 ESV] It is interesting they went to care for the body without a plan for rolling the heavy stone away from the tomb. Matthew gives the impression that they witnessed an earthquake and an angel rolling the stone aside. They watched the guards, Roman soldiers, fall into a dead faint (see Matthew 28:4).

After the angel rolled the stone aside, he took up a casual pose, “And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it.” [Matthew 28:2 ESV] The angel is not at attention, nor is the angel flashing a sword to keep people away. Sitting is a relaxed posture. Almost as if to say, “Relax, everything is awesome.”

The angel starts with “do not be afraid.” Fear is common with humans. Fear is used to motivate and manipulate us. Don’t believe me? Just watch the news. It’s interesting the message from God is “do not be afraid.” Once we look past the fear, we will have a chance to see God at work.

Then the women are invited to see the empty grave. “He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.” [Matthew 28:6] Luke records the question, “… Why do you seek the living among the dead?” [Luke 24:6c ESV] It’s almost to say, you are looking in the wrong place. If you are looking for a dead Jesus, a grave is the natural choice. Problem is; today the tomb is empty!

The women are told, “Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.” [Matthew 28:7 ESV] The first invitation was to “come and see.” Now they are told to “go and tell.” The knowledge of a living Jesus requires them to act, to obey, to give witness. 

The women obeyed, “So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him.” [Matthew 28:8 – 9] I do not think it is a coincidence that when they were on their way to tell others about the empty tomb; they meet the main character of their message. It seems obedience is the conduit to experiencing Jesus.

It’s one thing to have a dead Jesus. We can enjoy Jesus being dead because it focuses on God’s love. We can focus on believing as a matter of faith. It means we can go about life undisturbed because Jesus is not involved in life. The flaw in thinking this way is the disciples’ early message was Jesus crucified, risen, and coming again. Having a living Jesus is a very different thing. The crucifixion is only part of the story.

The real question is what do we do with the resurrection? Paul stated, “He was publicly identified as God’s Son with power through his resurrection from the dead, which was based on the Spirit of holiness. This Son is Jesus Christ our Lord.” [Romans 1:4 CEB] So if the resurrection is true, and it is, what are you going to do about it?

While the cross demonstrates God’s love; the empty tomb leads us into personal relationship with the living God. The empty tomb leads us to power in life. The empty tomb leads us to victory in life. This all looks forward to the eventual return of Jesus and the justice, cleansing, and renewal this world desperately needs.

Having a living Jesus means obedience. It means living a holy life in a depraved, dying, and decaying world.

Victory over death part 1

April 4, 2020

Tomorrow is “Palm Sunday.” It is the start of the final week of Jesus’ earthly life. Christians around the world consider it a holy week.

The set up for the most dramatic confrontation between good and evil begins with a resurrection. The story is found in John 11. I invite you to find a Bible and follow along.

Verse one is like the dramatic music that signals a turn of events. It starts with “A man named Lazarus was sick.” [NLT] There is a bit of explanation about Lazarus, he has two sisters who call for Jesus to help. [2 – 3] At this point Jesus does something strange. We might start a Congressional investigating over what He knew, when He knew it, and why He acted the way He did. John states, “he stayed where he was for the next two days.” [verse 6] The next verse records Jesus’ decision to go “back to Judea.”

The disciples object [verse 8] because Jesus’ life is in jeopardy. Jesus gives a cryptic answer about walking in light and stumbling in darkness [verses 9 – 10]. Then Jesus declares in verse 11, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up.” [NLT] They don’t understand so He has to tell them in verse 14, “Lazarus is dead.”

Why did Jesus allow His friend to die? I’m so glad you asked!!!

Jesus' lesson is dramatic. A lot of theology comes from this chapter. Especially about who Jesus is and the resurrection of the dead. We’ve all been to funerals. Chances are you have heard a verse or three read from this chapter.

After some more misunderstanding from Lazarus’ sisters Mary and Martha. Jesus leads a procession to the grave of His friend. There are a lot of people crying. “When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within him, and he was deeply troubled.” [John 11:33] I’m not amazed at the mourning. That’s the natural trajectory of human experience. People die, we miss them, and we mourn their passing.

What amazes me is found a two verses later; for effect, it is the shortest verse in the Bible (in English). “Jesus wept.” 

With all the deep emotion the story continues, “Jesus was still angry as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. “Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them. But Martha, the dead man’s sister, protested, “Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible.” [John 11:38 – 39] For the record, the Greek does say that Jesus was angry. Actually it has the force of being VERY angry.

I don’t think it was because the people were having a hard time wrapping their mind around what Jesus was about to do. I don’t think it was because they accused Him of not being efficient enough to prevent Lazarus’ death [verse 37]. I think Jesus was angry because He was feeling the sting of death. Death is the consequence of sin.

After a bit of dramatic set up we read, “Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go!” [John 11:43 – 44 NLT]

I can’t imagine the power of that shout. It literally raised the dead. The power of Jesus’ command to do what “everyone” would say was “impossible.” But this is not even “the tip of the iceberg” of Jesus power. Someday at His command the dead will be raised, everyone will be judged, there will be a new heaven and earth, and “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” [Philippians 2:10 – 11 NLT]

Six days before the Passover, Jesus returned to Lazarus’ home [John 12:1]. The next day Jesus entered Jerusalem as its rightful king. The King of Glory stepping toward certain death on the cross. Winning a victory for us forever. Robbing sin of its power. Soothing the sting of death. Crushing the head of Satan.

Matthew 28:2 – 4 Resurrection Freedom: Live!

Matthew 28:2 – 4

Resurrection Freedom: Live!

The results of the resurrection of Jesus ripple to our lives today… not just in joy for the occasion of the day but also in celebration that because Jesus is alive, we can be forgiven and live!

How is this possible?

I.          FACT

            A.         Because of what happened at the tomb:

                        1.         Matthew 28:2 – 4: The stone is rolled away. (The soldiers witness.)

                        2.         Mark 16:4 – 6: The tomb is empty

                        3.         John 20:3 – 9: The grave clothing is folded (Carpenter’s witness of a                                              finished job.)

            B.         Because of the eye witness accounts:

                        1.         John 20:10 – 16: Mary Magdalene

                        2.         John 20:19 – 20: The Disciples

                        3.         John 20:24 – 28: Thomas (doubter or realist?)

                        4.         Luke 24:30 -- 32: The road to Emmaus (“burning hearts”)

                        5.         Luke 24:33 – 34: Peter

                        6.         1 Corinthians 15:3 – 7: The 500, James, and Paul

II.         POWER [Romans 1:1 – 6]

            A.         Right here, right now!

                        1.         [v 2] This event was promised beforehand (prophets through the Holy                                            Spirit… NOT a made up story.)

                        2.         [v 3] Human nature = descended from David.

                        3.         [v 4] Divine nature = resurrection.

                        4.         [v 5]  BECAUSE of all this we (you) can receive grace! (God’s “want to,”)

                        5.         [v 6] BECAUSE of all this we (you) are called (must respond) to BELONG to                                    Jesus Christ.
[Philippians 3:10]

            B.         We are all one choice away from Heaven or Hell…

III.        MYSTERY [Colossians 1:27]

“Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

            A.         Colossians 3:1 – 4 (Meaning)

                        1.         [v 1] “Set your hearts on things above.”

                        2.         [v 2] “Set your minds on things above.”

                        3.         [v 3] You died… “your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”

                        4.         [v 4] “Christ… is your life.”

            B.         Indwelling presence of Jesus (through the Holy Spirit) BECAUSE of the                                                 resurrection (He’s alive!)

IV.        SKILL 

            A.         Galatians 2:20

                        1.         “I have been crucified with Christ.”

Romans 6:11 “… count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.”

                        2.         “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (live by faith)

            B.         Galatians 5:19 – 25

                        1.         Fruit is the excess energy of a mature life.

                        2.         Transformation = moral behavior + fruit of the Holy Spirit.

                        3.         Passion and desire of the sinful nature war against the Spirit. (See                                                             Romans 8:7)

                        4.         Live by the Holy Spirit… “keep in step” is a military image of effective                                            training and attentiveness.

V.         CONCLUSION:

            A.         False concept of freedom – “I can do whatever I want, whenever I want,                                             however I want… if NOT then I am NOT free.”

                        1.         Reality: there are consequences to that idea…

                        2.         Consequences:

                                    a.         Connected to God means life lived by design, in the design of                                                         what we were meant to be and do.

                                    b.         Disconnected to God means certain destruction (eternal).

            B.         What are you celebrating today?

                        1.         A family day?

                        2.         A holiday?

                        3.         The life changing results of the resurrection of Jesus!

Remembering Jesus: What Happened?

John 20:24 – 27

Remembering Jesus: What Happened?

It has become fashionable to follow and create theories denying the death and resurrection of Jesus. So what really happened? We are going to follow the testimony of the witnesses. One of them, John was an eye witness to the events. Mark, a teenager at the time, recalls what he and Peter knew of the events. Matthew, tells us what he knows. Luke was the investigator who questioned witnesses and examined the medical evidence, C. S. I. like.

1. On Tuesday night, Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss.

Mark, who barely escaped that night testifies, “Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.” [Mark 14:44]

The thing about Judas was that he was a close follower of Jesus. In fact, he was numbered as one of the special group known as “disciples” and later to become the authoritative “Apostles.” Why did he do it? Nobody knows. John tells us he was a thief [John 12:6], so maybe it was for the 30 pieces of silver. Church mythology has theorized it was to force Jesus to begin a rebellion.

2. On Friday before dawn Jesus is illegally tried twice.

The first trial was before Annas who was the Father-in-law of Caiaphas, the current High Priest. At this trial Caiaphas prophesied, “that it would be good if one man died for the people.” [John 18:14]

The second trial was the formal trial before the Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin was the ruling body of that time, made up mostly of religious leaders. This trial was held at Caiaphas’ home [Luke 22:54]. MANY false witness were brought against Jesus [Mark 14:55 – 56, Matthew 26:59 – 60] but they were not able to convict Him. In fact, He was convicted on his confession:

Matthew tells us, “But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God." “Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

Mark witnessed, “The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked. "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?" They all condemned him as worthy of death.” [Mark 14:63 – 64]

It is here that Jesus is first beaten, “Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, "Prophesy!" And the guards took him and beat him.” [Mark 14:65]

Peter is present at this trial, but has his own problems. In fact, Peter ends up denying knowing Jesus, not once, not twice, but three times. It was a sad night for Jesus’ followers. One disciple betrays – leads a mob – to arrest Jesus. Another, one of the leaders, denies knowing Jesus. It sure looks like the enemy is winning the war at this point.

3. Friday, just after dawn.

Jesus is formally condemned by the Sanhedrin [Luke 22:66 – 71]. It appears to be an attempt to put a legal stamp on the events of the night.

Seeing the conviction, it appears that Judas repents. Matthew tells us, “When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. [4] "I have sinned," he said, "for I have betrayed innocent blood." "What is that to us?" they replied. "That's your responsibility.” [Matthew 27:3 – 4] Now that’s cold. Judas is “seized with remorse” and he admits to having “sinned.” The religious leaders of the day respond with “that’s your responsibility.”

People do not have the power to pardon sin. Judas went to the wrong place, to the wrong people, when he should have gone to the only source of forgiveness... Jesus. That is really hard to do after you’ve betrayed Jesus with a kiss.

After the formal trial, Jesus is then sent to Pilate. [John 18:28 – 38] Pilate is the Roman governor. The Jews were allowed all forms of punishment, except the one the religious leaders wanted this time – death [John 18:31]. Before Pilate, Jesus is accused of “perverting” the country, opposing paying taxes, and claiming to be King [Luke 23:2]. Pilate finds Jesus innocent [Luke 23:4, John 18:34].

Pilate sends Jesus to King Herod Antipas [Luke 23:6 – 12] because Jesus is from Galilee. Luke, the historian, notes that day, two bitter enemies became friends [Luke23:12]. Sadly enemies join in a common cause, against Jesus.

Jesus, failing to provide entertainment for King Herod, is shuffled back to Pilate and sentenced to death [John 19:14]. Apparently this was not done without considerable stress on Pilate. For instance Matthew relates this detail, “While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.” [Matthew 27:19].

In what may have been a cruel piece of amusement or an attempt to free Jesus, Pilate puts the crowd to a vote. Mark gives us this detail, “Now it was the custom at the Feast to release a prisoner whom the people requested. A man called Barabbas was in prison with the insurrectionists who had committed murder in the uprising. The crowd came up and asked Pilate to do for them what he usually did.” [Mark 15:6 – 8]. Here is an “insurrectionist” and “murder” who is placed next to Jesus. To put this in modern context, Barabbas is a terrorist who has viciously murdered innocent people. He’s not a soldier, he’s not a freedom fighter, he is a simple terrorist.

Before the vote, Jesus is “flogged.” John, who was there said it went down this way, “With this he went out again to the Jews and said, "I find no basis for a charge against him. [39] But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release `the king of the Jews'?" They shouted back, "No, not him! Give us Barabbas!" Now Barabbas had taken part in a rebellion. Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged.” [John 18:38b – 19:1] After the flogging, Pilate has another vote: Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews, “Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him." [5] When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, "Here is the man!” [John 19:4 – 5]

Flogging is very brutal. Typically the victim was whipped 39 times with a whip that included stones and sharp objects. The idea was for the stones to bruise and tenderize the skin and cause bleeding. The sharp objects were there to tear away the flesh. A crown of thorns was put on Jesus head [John 19:2] and a purple robe was added for the mocking effect of royalty [John 19:2].

John observes that Pilate is struggling with his role in the matter. “From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jews kept shouting, "If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar." When Pilate heard this, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judge's seat at a place known as the Stone Pavement (which in Aramaic is Gabbatha)” [John 19:12 – 13]

After the sentence of death Jesus is handed over to the soldiers who administer the third beating of the day. The crown was then crushed down with a staff [Matthew 27:30] and the purple robe is ripped off Jesus’ raw back [Matthew 27:31].

4. Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

Jesus is lead away to be crucified. This becomes a circus of sorts. The soldiers “cast lots” to see who got Jesus clothes [Mark 15:24 – 32]. Pilate put an inscription on the cross that was in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. The inscription? “King of the Jews.” [John 19:19 – 20]. Jesus is mocked by the crowd [Mark 15:29], mocked by the religious leaders [Mark 15:31], mocked by the soldiers [Luke 23:36].

An interesting turn of events hints at the victory the cross would bring. In Matthew [27:44] we are told the two thieves, being crucified with Jesus, railed on Jesus. However, Luke discovered that one of the thieves had a change of heart. Luke writes, “But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? [41] We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:40 – 43]

This criminal recognizes who Jesus is, asks for salvation, and gets it.

Jesus’ mom was at the cross when Jesus died. Also there was, Cleopas’ wife, Mary Magdalene, and John. [John 19:25 – 27]

5. Friday, from noon to 3:00 p.m.

Lots of things happened at this time. Maybe the most ominous was the darkness. [Mark 15:33, Matthew 27:45, Luke 23:44]. This was an unnatural event that has been explained various ways. Certainly, this could not have been part of any human plan.

Mark tells it this way: “At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. [34] And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"‑‑which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” [Mark 15:33 – 34]

A thousand years before this event, David, the ancient King of Israel wrote Psalm 22. Psalm 22 described the details of a Roman crucifixion long before there was a Roman empire.

Listen to these remarkable details:

* PS 22:2 O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, BY NIGHT, and am not silent.

* PS 22:6 But I am a worm and not a man, SCORNED by men and DESPISED by the people.

* PS 22:7 – 8 All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads: He trusts in the LORD; let the LORD rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in him."

* PS 22:14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted away within me. [Out of join is consistent with the jolt from dropping the cross into the ground. Heart has turned to wax, would have defined the burning sensation in the chest area as the victim struggled to breath.]

* PS 22:15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death. [The intense thirst.]

* PS 22:16 Dogs have surrounded me; a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet. [“Dogs” would have been the common mispronunciation of the word for “Gentile” and refers to the Roman soldiers. The piercing of the hands and feet the nails that were used in the crucifixion.]

* PS 22:17 I can count all my bones; people stare and gloat over me. [The humiliating exposure of hanging on the cross.]

* PS 22:18 They divide my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing.

* PS 22:30 Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord. [We see the hope found in our Easter celebration.]

John then describes the last moments on the cross with these words, “Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." [29] A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. [30] When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” [John 19:28 – 30]

Notice that Jesus laid His life down, it was not taken or stolen. For the mere mortal it would have been the end. But this is Jesus, the Christ, the King of Glory, the son of God. There is more to the story. Much, much more.

6. In Jerusalem at the time of His death.

Matthew describes the scene this way: “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. [52] The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people.” [Matthew 27:51 – 53]

The veil in the temple is torn from TOP to BOTTOM. The veil had been on thing separating God’s Holy of Holies from the rest of humanity. It was a symbol of the separation between God and Man due to sin. Since it was torn from top to bottom, we can only understand this as God the Father tore it open Himself... it was not the effect of the earthquake. The mass resurrection was also another supernatural event.

These events are beyond what any conspiracy theory can begin to explain away.

7. Friday afternoon before 6:00 p.m.

The body had to be disposed of quickly. John described what happened this way, “Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. [32] The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. [33] But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. [34] Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. [35] The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. [36] These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken," [37] and, as another scripture says, "They will look on the one they have pierced.” [John 19:31 – 37]

Remember this was a professional Roman soldier, not an idiot. The Romans were as efficient at their work as any US Marine. They were the best. The knew death when they saw death. This soldier sees that Jesus is dead and makes sure that Jesus is dead. The flow of water and blood would have been consistent with the fluid build up in the lungs of a person who had been crucified.

Joseph of Armathea is given the body to be buried.

8. Friday after 6:00 p.m. before sunset.

Jesus is buried. He is placed in a tomb that is sealed with a sizable stone. The stones were custom cut and put into groove then rolled down-hill in the grove. Each of these stone weighed around 1 ton. They could be moved only with considerable effort.

It is sad that people could think that a man who had lost the kind of blood Jesus would have in his beatings and crucifixion, not had any water for this long, had spike size nails run through his hands and feet, and had a spear puncture a lung and major artery (if not heart) could recover enough to escape the tomb by rolling away a 1 ton stone and beating 4 Roman soldiers. It’s not going to happen.

The women begin a watch of the tomb. [Matthew 27:61] Around sunset they returned to prepare spices and ointments. [Luke 23:56]

9. Saturday morning.

The religious leaders when to Pilate and demanded a guard. [Matthew 27:62 – 66] You see they remembered Jesus saying He would rise from the dead. Oddly enough, the disciples seemed to have forgotten. So they sealed the stone with a Roman seal and set a guard. Again these were the finest soldiers in the world who would have forfeited their lives if their charge escaped. They would not have sealed an empty tomb, nor would they have moved the body. If they did, then they would have produced it when rumors of the resurrection began to fly.

10. Sunday before sunrise.

Matthew gives us these details: “There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. [3] His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. [4] The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.” [Matthew 28:2 – 4]

By the time the women are able to return to the tomb, the stone is rolled away so that everyone could see that it is empty!

Jesus has died Friday, probably around 3:00 p.m. and was buried before sunset. He laid, dead, in the tomb all of Saturday and about 10 hours of Sunday. That makes 3 days, and counting the supernatural night of Friday, 3 nights.

11. Sunday just after sunrise.

The women didn’t find the body. Instead they found a stone that had been rolled away, an empty tomb, and an angel announcing Jesus’ resurrection. Matthew tells this part of the story like this: “The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: `He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.” [Matthew 28:5 – 9]

Jesus made 5 appearances that day. To Mary Madgalene [John 20:11 – 18, Mark 16:9 – 11], to the women [Matthew 28:9 – 10], to the two on the road to Emmaus [Mark 16:12 – 13, Luke 24:13 – 32], to Peter [Luke 24:34], then to the 10 other disciples [Mark 16:14, Luke 24:36 – 43, John 20:19 — 25]. In the next 40 days, Jesus would make 5 more appearances and be seen by more than 500 people.

12. Finally we get to Thomas.

How many of us have said, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” [John 20:25b]?

Ok, we haven’t said it out loud. But do you really believe?

* Is it believing when you don’t say something to someone who needs to hear about the life changing encounter with a living Jesus Christ?

* Is it believing when you knowingly and deliberately do something you know is wrong or avoid doing something you know is right?

* Is it believing when you find other things to do than come to the place God has chosen to meet His people at the appointed time?

* Is it believing when you don’t experience the life changing resurrection of Jesus Christ for yourself?

Today is the day for you to end your doubt and declare, along with Thomas: “My Lord and my God!” Will you do so now?

What Joy!

John 16:20 – 24
What Joy!

There are some odd expectations and definitions of the Christian life loose in our society. For instance, some people, by the way they look give the impression that God is opposed to any emotions... except being sour.

Others believe that the one who believes in and follows Jesus should never have a negative emotion. I have heard some go as far as saying that these negative emotions are “sin.” Along with this is an unrealistic meeting of sad and bad things with some sort of forced “joy.”

All this has made it difficult for us to find the proper perspective in understanding that Jesus expected us to have an underlying joy that can never be taken from us. We also must remember that “joy” is the second of the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

I. Jesus noted that there would be a time of conflict between what was expected and the circumstances.

“I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices.” [v 20a]

A. REALITY: what gives the world joy can be a cause for us to weep and mourn.

1. Specifically Jesus was talking about His death and resurrection.

a. Jesus was not telling them it was wrong to weep and mourn. There is a time to be “down” because of the circumstances of life.

b. Jesus was telling them that after that, they would have a time of great joy.

“. . . You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.” [v 20b]

2. There is something about expectations that changes the nature of things, especially grief.

“Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. [14] We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” [1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 14]

a. “Ignorance” is something both Jesus and Paul were addressing.

b. The problem is that we tend to live in the “now.” Really, we have to... but the tendency is to lose sight of what is in the future.


***** It is ok to have negative feelings in response to negative events, if they are in perspective.*****

II. Jesus used an example of extreme pain and extreme joy to illustrate His point.

A. The pain of child birth is natural.

1. REALITY: sometimes there is pain that we can do nothing about.

a. Emotional pain happens in the course of life or as a result of life itself.

1.) The pain of being rejected by someone you love.

2.) The emotional turmoil from a physical trauma, such as the death of a loved one. (80% of marriages were a child dies end in divorce.)

3.) Some people have chemical imbalances. (Some are caused by addictions, some addictions are used to self-medicate.)

4.) Some people suffer from “clinical depression” that are beyond our ability to understand.

b. Sometimes these pains are life long and cannot be appropriately dulled.

2. Joy is an issue that is beyond physical pain.

a. Expectation is something even those in the most pain can understand (the woman giving birth).

1.) It does not lessen the immediate pain BUT...

2.) It does give something to look forward to beyond the immediate.

b. Expectation of a future joy can get us past the “now” and give us a future hope.

1.) Think about it: as good as this life is, there is nothing permanent here for us.

2.) Someday, in the presence of Jesus, there will be no more pain, or sorrow, or suffering, of any kind.


***** Joy is not part of a sequence, it is the consequence of the sorrow. Following Christ does not exempt us from sorrow or cause us to forfeit joy. *****

III. Joy is finally set on the facts and the promises of God.

A. What are the facts Jesus pointed out?

1. Jesus’ resurrection (and the future promise of ours) would give us “wonderful joy.”

2. Anguish would give way to joy in new life.

3. Jesus return would be a cause of rejoicing (a.k.a. “Joy”)

***** Notice that Jesus is the difference, the point of reference, for all our hopes and joys. *****

B. What are the promises Jesus gave us?

1. [v 22] “no one will take away your joy.”

2. Your prayers will be answered, leading to joy.

“Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” [v 24b]

IV. Why is this so hard?

A. Some people chose Jesus as “the lesser of the two evils” over going to hell.

1. “He goes for a miserable life and heaven in the end.” [Garriock]

a. The result is like the child who, when told to sit down declared, “I may be sitting down but on the inside I’m standing up.”

b. We follow Jesus as “slaves” (to sin) and not “sons” (of God).

2. Rather than acquiring the power of living in right relationship to God, we go through the motions as if there were nothing better or else.

B. Understanding that joy is a provision for all of life.

1. Joy give us a whole bunch of things: confidence in prayer, certainty of answered prayer, expectation that God WANTS to give us what is best.

2. Joy becomes, not just the fruit of our relationship with God, it becomes the pivot point for every experience (good or bad) in this life.

The day everything changed

1 Corinthians 15:1 – 22

“The day everything changed”

 

The resurrection of Jesus is THE single most important event… ever.  The resurrection proved who Jesus is, it provided focus for the disciples’ preaching, it is the power of God to transform daily life.

 

 

I.          Why is the resurrection so influential?

 

            A.        The resurrection’s impact.

 

                        1.         PAST: as an historical event it shows us God did something great.

 

“And who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” [Romans 1:4]

 

                        2.         PRESENT: the power is available for us today.

 

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” [Philippians 3:10]

 

                        3.         FUTURE: God will do something greater in the future!

 

“So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable.” [1 Corinthians 15:42]

 

            B.        The resurrection’s importance.

 

                        1.         The resurrection is the foundational Christian belief.

 

                        2.         The resurrection is the ultimate source of hope.

 

3.         The resurrection is the guarantee for power in our current life and our future resurrection.

 

II.        Why is the resurrection so critical?

 

            A.        If no resurrection then faith is useless.

 

“And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” [v 14]

 

1.         The resurrection separates Christianity from every other religion.  You can go to their founders’ occupied graves.

 

2.         Christianity celebrates life, not death.

 

            B.        If no resurrection then we are false witnesses.

 

“More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead.” [v 15]

 

                        1.         The core of being a follower of Jesus is to continue the witness.

 

                        2.         The witness is of the living Jesus.

 

            C.        If no resurrection then there is no salvation.

 

“And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” [v 17]

 

1.         “Faith” as a general thing is pointless.  People can believe in anything but that does not make it real.

 

2.         “Faith” must be specific and life changing for it to have any effect.  Otherwise it is “futile.”

 

            D.        If no resurrection the “lost” is forever.

 

“Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.” [v 18]

 

1.         “Lost” is a technical word that means separated from God, like a lost sheep.

 

2.         The state of being “lost” is permanent unless something more powerful than death intervenes… the resurrection!

 

            E.         If no resurrection then we are pitiful.

 

“If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.” [v 19]

 

                        1.         Without the reality of what is promised then everything is empty.

 

                        2.         So Christians would deserve contempt for holding to empty myths.

 

III.       How can we be so sure?

 

            A.        Scripture.  (Prophecy: Predicted before it happened.)

 

“For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” [vv 3 – 4]

 

            B.        Eye witnesses. (Legal “proof”)

 

“… He appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. [6] After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. [7] Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.” [vv 5 – 7]

 

            C.        Paul. (Personal experience)

 

“And last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.” [v 8]

 

IV.       What should be our response?

 

            A.        Hope.  (NOT wishful thinking… confident expectation.)

 

“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. [21] For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.” [vv 20 – 21]

 

            B.        Celebrate life, both spiritual and eternal.

 

“For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” [v 22]

 

            C.        Be transformed.

 

For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. [10] But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them--yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” [vv 9 – 10]

 

1.         God took someone who was actively seeking to destroy Christianity and transformed him into an apostle!

 

2.         God can take you, from whatever place you find yourself and transform you.

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What happened?

Luke 23:44 – 24:12

“What happened?”

This week has been an emotional roller coaster for the disciples. Last Sunday, they celebrated the return of the King to Jerusalem... or so they thought. They had watched Jesus cleanse the temple of the money changers, severely question the religious elite’s application of theology, and had been there when one of their own betrayed Jesus. In fear, they ran for their lives instead of standing up for Jesus.

Now in fear, they had locked themselves into a room... Maybe they wondered what went wrong, maybe they questioned if they were wrong about Jesus. Either way, they were grieving because their teacher had been dead three days. But the twists and turns of this week just kept getting stranger and stranger.

The women had returned from the grave with some story about Jesus being alive. They tried to convince the disciples, tried to get them to remember Jesus’ words, tried to get them to believe. Could it be? Peter, who had denied Jesus, ran to the tomb. If the women were right... I wonder what he was thinking.

What did happen?

 

I.         The events of “Good Friday.”

 

            A.        Jesus was crucified on “Good Friday.”

 

                        1.         Why do we call it “Good” when something very bad happened?

 

                                    a.         It is good because on that day, Jesus solved our worst problem.

 

                                    b.         The problem was sin which separates us from God.

Define sin...

 

►          Sin is “trespass” or “transgress” or crossing a line. We ask what the line is there for and we step over it. This is willful rebellion against the known law of God.

►          Sin is “falling short” of God’s glory this is also considered “error.” We cannot reach God ourselves so we set up an intermediator, an idol to take God’s place, try to earn our salvation through ritual or good works, or try to ignore God on our own.

►          Sin is “iniquity” which means either foolishness, defilement, or perversity. Things like pride fit here.

►          Sin is not doing what we ought to do. [“Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.” James 4:17]

Sin is ultimately selfish. What ever we do, we do for our own reasons

 

                        2.         When Jesus was crucified, the veil (around 3 feet thick) in the temple was torn from top to bottom.

 

                                    a.         The temple was laid out in a way to limit access. The courts were open with gates on four sides. The temple had only one opening. Inside the temple was another building with one opening that only the priests could enter. In that inner sanctuary was a curtain, that was the veil that kept the priests from entering God’s physical presence.

 

                                    b.         Jesus was crucified the day the Passover lambs were being sacrificed at the temple. On that day the gates of the court temple were open, the door to the temple was open, and the door to the inner sanctuary was open. In other words, if you were looking into the temple, you would have been able to see the veil and been reminded of the separation between you and God.

 

            B.        When Jesus died, He changed the spiritual dynamics of how God and people interact.

 

                        1.         Before, only one person could enter God’s presence on one day of the year.

 

                                    a.         That was called the day of Atonement. Two goats were used. One goat provided the blood, the other goat was became the “scape-goat” that carried the sins of the people.

 

                                    b.         Jesus did both. His blood “atoned” (“make amends for” – Oxford University Press) for our sin. By being taken out of the city, Jesus fulfilled the carrying of our sins.

 

                        2.         Now the way is open through Jesus only.

“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, [20] by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body...” [Hebrews 10:19 – 20]

 

II.       The events of Resurrection Day.

 

            A.        The women went to the tomb.

 

                        1.         Their purpose was to put burial spices on the body.

 

                                    a.         They expected to have a problem with moving the stone. [Mark 16:3]

 

                                    b.         They were doing that “last thing” for the one they loved.

 

                        2.         What they found was different than what they expected.

 

                                    a.         They expected a body, they found angels asking, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” [v 5]

 

                                                1.)       Ever notice how we do that too? We go to bars or dance halls to find acceptance, easy our pain, or distract us.

 

                                                2.)       We go to churches that major on the experience and are thin on the truth of God’s Word and behavior altering grace.

 

                                    b.         They expected more sorrow, they heard the angels say, “He is not here; he has risen!” [v 6]

 

                                                1.)       Ever notice how we do the same thing? We grind our way through the week. Punch a clock, collect a paycheck, do email.

 

                                                2.)       Somehow we miss the joy.

 

                                    c.         They expected the natural course of life, “Then they remembered his words.” [v 8]

 

                                                1.)       Jesus taught His disciples to look at life differently based on what He said.

 

                                                2.)       Events are interpreted by what we think we know. That’s why remembering changed their perspective on what they were seeing.

 

            B.        Peter is torn between grief and guilt.

 

                        1.         Sound familiar?

 

                                    a.         Grief weighs us down.

 

                                                1.)       The “Why bother, what the use?” attitude.

 

                                                2.)       Hopelessness can keep us confused and muddled up (disordered and confused state: Oxford University Press)

 

                                    b.         Guilt devalues us.

 

                                                1.)       The crushed and dirty feeling sin naturally leaves can keep us from God.

 

                                                2.)       (Ill.) Of a $20 bill... crisp and clean v a $20 bill crumpled and dirty.

 

                        2.         Peter has a choice.

 

                                    a.         Grief can blind him, guilt can drive him away...

 

                                    b.         Peter chooses to run to the tomb to see for himself.

 

                                                1.)       Great people are people who have chosen to do things that are courageous, right, just, and holy.

 

                                                2.)       Peter doesn’t know what it means, but he suspects something has happened that will change him forever.

 

III.      Running in sandals: What did happen?

 

            A.        Theological truth:

 

                        1.         Jesus resurrection forever ended the question of Jesus identity.

“And who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” [Romans 1:4]

 

                                    a.         Jesus is the Christ. “Christ” is the Greek title for the Old Testament “Messiah.” The Christ is the anointed one of Old Testament who would sacrifice Himself.

 

                                    b.         Jesus is Lord. “Lord” was the substitute for the sacred name of God (which could not be spoken). It was so sacred, if it was to be written, the scribes would bathe, change their clothes, and destroy the pen after the name was written. When it was to be spoken, they used the word “Lord.” In English texts it is symbolized by “LORD.” (All caps) This is an unmistakable claim to the divinity of Jesus.

 

                        2.         Jesus resurrection became the difference between truth and error.

 

                                    a.         Some people do not like or want the cross of Jesus... it is either a stumbling block or foolishness.

“Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, [23] but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.” [1 Corinthians 1:22 – 23]

 

                                                1.)       It has become the “in” think to write books or do TV specials to try to debunk, humiliate, refute the claims of Christ.

 

                                                2.)       People go through mental gymnastics to say Jesus was not who and what He claimed to be... They will reduce Scripture to a code and say the letters or numbers don’t add up to point to Jesus.

 

                                    b.         Its very simple. If Jesus rose from the dead (which has seldom been disputed) then Jesus is the Christ and Jesus is Lord... not a good teacher, not just a prophet, not even a visionary.

 

            B.        Personal truth:

 

                        1.         The resurrection implies a question. If Jesus is who He said He was...

“I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!” [John 8:58] (notice Jesus used “I am” not “I was” because “I am” is a translation of the sacred name of God.)

“I and the Father are one.” [John 10:30]

“Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. [7] If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” [John 14:6 – 7]

“Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?" [62] "I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." [63] The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked. [64] "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?" They all condemned him as worthy of death.” [Mark 14:61b – 64] (Notice the people who tried Jesus seemed to understand the implications of His claim.)

 

                        2.         Will you accept Jesus’ claims and make Him your Lord?

 

                        3.         Will you truly (“to the fullest degree, absolutely or completely” Oxford University Press) celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord?

 

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