The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is a powerful message of hope, victory over death, and eternal life. In Matthew 28:1-10, we find the account of the resurrection, where the women visit the tomb and encounter an angel who delivers the news of Jesus’ resurrection. This sermon aims to explore the significance of this event and how it brings hope and joy to believers.
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 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. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 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. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.’
Matthew 28:1-10, NIV
The Power of the Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus demonstrates the power of God over sin and death. It is a miraculous event that shook the world and changed the course of history. As believers, we can find assurance in knowing that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to us today. This power brings transformation, healing, and freedom.
Through the resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and provided a way for us to be reconciled with God. It is through faith in his sacrifice and resurrection that we can receive forgiveness and eternal life. This truth fills our hearts with hope and joy, knowing that we have been redeemed and made new in Christ.
The Assurance of God’s Promises
The angel’s words to the women at the tomb serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Jesus had foretold his death and resurrection, and now it had come to pass. This reassures us that God’s promises are trustworthy and will be fulfilled in His perfect timing.
Just as the angel instructed the women to go and tell the disciples about Jesus’ resurrection, we are called to share this message of hope with others. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it is a living reality that continues to impact lives today. When we share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection, we invite others to experience the same hope and joy that we have found in Him.
The Response of the Women
The women’s response to the news of Jesus’ resurrection is a mix of fear and joy. They were initially afraid when they encountered the angel, but their fear turned into overwhelming joy as they met Jesus himself. This response reflects the range of emotions we may experience when encountering the resurrection power of Jesus in our lives.
Fear often arises when we face the unknown or when we are confronted with the magnitude of God’s power. However, the resurrection assures us that we can move from fear to joy as we encounter the living presence of Jesus. He meets us in our fears and doubts, offering comfort, peace, and the assurance of His presence.
The Call to Go and Tell
Jesus’ final words to the women at the tomb were a commission to go and tell the disciples about his resurrection. This commission extends to all believers today. We are called to share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection with the world, proclaiming the hope and joy that it brings.
As we go and tell, we must remember that our words are not enough; our lives must reflect the reality of the resurrected Christ. Our actions, attitudes, and priorities should align with the truth of the Gospel. By living as witnesses to the resurrection, we can draw others to Jesus and invite them into a life-transforming relationship with Him.
A Message of Hope and Joy
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is more than a historical event or a theological doctrine. It is a message of hope and joy that continues to bring transformation and new life to all who believe. Through the power of the resurrection, we can find assurance of God’s faithfulness, experience freedom from sin, and share the good news with others.
As we reflect on Matthew 28:1-10, let us remember that the resurrection is not just a one-time event; it is an ongoing reality in the lives of believers. May we embrace the hope and joy that the resurrection brings and live as witnesses to the power and love of our risen Savior.
