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He is Risen, Pt. 1

Jul 31, 2016 Sunday AM
Matthew 28:1-8

"For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures..." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

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Study Notes

  1. Some Clarifications 1
    1. ​There is a difference between "resurrection" and "life after death." Most people will admit, or at least hope that there is something after this life but that is not the same as believing in resurrection.
    2. There is a difference between "resurrection" and "reincarnation." Reincarnation refers to the migration of the soul through various life forms ending up as part of the cosmic oneness or nothingness.
    3. There is a difference between "resurrection" and "revivification." People were brought back to life i nthe Old and New Testament but later, they re-died. Resurrection means permanent restoration to the life God intended; body, soul, and spirit perfectly suited for eternal life.
  2. Chronology and Harmony
    1. The Arrival of the Angels
      With an earthquake an angel descended Heaven and rolled back the stone. Not to Jesus out but to let the witnesses in! The probably fainted or played dead until they could “safely” leave.
    2. The Arrival of the Women
      At least four women showed up early. Relieved the stone had been removed but a bit perplexed as to what this meant, they went inside. These compassionate and courageous women were the first to see the evidence! He was gone. 
    3. The Admonition of the Angels
      First, the angels assured/comforted them, then they instructed them. The women were to go quickly to the disciples…and Peter… and let know that “He is risen as He said.”

Conclusion

  1. The resurrection is the single most important part of the gospel story. Without this, "our preaching and our faith are in vain."
  2. What does this historical reality mean to you? How have you responded to God in light of it?

Questions for Small Group, Family and Personal Reflection

  1. Discuss the differences between "resurrection" and "life after death." Why does this matter?
  2. Why do you think the angel added... "and Peter?" See Mark 16:7