Sunday: What Happened on Easter
Resurrection and Triumph over Death
Outline
- The Women at the Empty Tomb (Matthew 28:1–10, Mark 16:1–8, Luke 24:1–12). Mary Magdalene and other women went to Jesus’ tomb early on the first day of the week. They found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. An angel announced that Jesus had risen and instructed them to tell the disciples. Jesus appeared to the women as they went to tell the disciples.
- Peter and John at the Tomb (Luke 24:12). Peter and John ran to the tomb after hearing the women’s report. They found the tomb empty, with the linen cloths lying by themselves.
- Jesus’ Appearance to the Disciples (Luke 24:36–49). Jesus appeared to the disciples, showing them his hands and feet. He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures about his suffering, death, and resurrection. Jesus commissioned them to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations.
Meditation
Easter Sunday marks the glorious celebration of Jesus’ resurrection, the cornerstone of the Christian faith. The empty tomb and Jesus’ appearances to his followers confirm his victory over death and his identity as the Son of God. This event transforms the disciples’ grief and despair into joy and hope, and it offers the same transformation to all who believe in him.
As we reflect on the resurrection, we are reminded that God’s love and power are stronger than the grave. Through faith in the risen Christ, we are given new life, freed from the bondage of sin and death. We are called to share this good news with others, proclaiming the hope and forgiveness found in Jesus. May we, like the early disciples, be filled with wonder and awe at the reality of the resurrection, and may our lives be a testament to the transforming power of our risen Lord.
Additional Thoughts
- How does the truth of Jesus’ resurrection impact our daily lives and the way we face challenges and trials?
- Tell three people today that you are a Christian and you believe Jesus rose from the dead!
Collect
Almighty God, who through your only-begotten Son Jesus Christ overcame death and opened to us the gate of everlasting life: Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the day of the Lord’s resurrection, may be raised from the death of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
David Roseberry writes posts and books on relevant topics applying biblical truth and wisdom. His work can be found at LeaderWorks, where he is Executive Director.
