Victory Over Death: The Resurrection of Jesus (John 20:1-18)

Okay, guys, get ready for some mind-blowing news! The story of Jesus doesn’t end with his death on the cross. Nope, it gets even more epic! Jesus rises from the dead, defeating death itself and proving that He truly is God. This changes everything! It gives us hope for eternal life and reminds us that with God, absolutely nothing is impossible.

Let’s dive into the resurrection story

• The Empty Tomb: Early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene goes to Jesus’ tomb and finds it empty. She freaks out and runs to tell Peter and John. (John 20:1-2)
• Racing to the Tomb: Peter and John race to the tomb, and John gets there first. He looks inside and sees the linen cloths but no Jesus. Peter goes in and sees the same thing. They’re confused but don’t quite understand what’s happened yet. (John 20:3-10)
• Mary Meets Jesus: Mary is weeping outside the tomb. Jesus appears to her, but she doesn’t recognize him at first. When He calls her name, she realises it’s Jesus! (John 20:11-16)
• “I Have Seen the Lord!”: Jesus tells Mary to go and tell the disciples that He has risen. Mary runs off, filled with joy and excitement, to share the incredible news. (John 20:17-18)

Why is the resurrection so important?

• Jesus Conquered Death: Death is the ultimate enemy, but Jesus defeated it! This means that death doesn’t have the final say. Because Jesus rose, we have hope for eternal life.
• Proof that Jesus is God: No one else has ever risen from the dead like Jesus did. This proves that He is who He said He is – the Son of God.
• New Life for Us: Jesus’ resurrection gives us new life! We can be forgiven, have a relationship with God, and live with purpose and hope.
• Power Over Everything: If Jesus can conquer death, He can conquer anything! This means that no matter what challenges we face, we can trust that God is with us and will help us overcome them.

Discussion Questions

• How do you think Mary Magdalene felt when she discovered the empty tomb?
• What does the resurrection of Jesus mean to you personally?
• How does the resurrection give you hope for the future?
• What are some ways you can share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection with others?
• How can you live a life that reflects the victory and new life that Jesus offers?

Prayer

Dear God, thank you for raising Jesus from the dead! Thank you for conquering death and giving us hope for eternal life. Help us to live each day with joy and confidence, knowing that nothing is impossible with you. Amen.

Blessing

May you be filled with the joy and hope of the resurrection. May you live each day with confidence, knowing that Jesus has conquered death and that you have new life in Him.