THE RESURRECTION

Introduction (5 minutes)

Opening Greeting and Icebreaker: Start with a warm welcome and a lighthearted icebreaker to engage the youth.

Have you heard about the most significant event in human history?

> Our calendars testify to it

> the 7 work week reflects the God of creation

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Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

The most divisive and significant figure in History.

What do you think of Christ?

The Story of Jordan Peterson > “Yes but I dont know what to do with that”.

Introduction to the Topic: Briefly introduce the resurrection of Jesus, highlighting its significance in the Christian faith.

Historical Context (5 minutes)

Background on Jesus' Death: Explain the context of Jesus' crucifixion and burial.

Importance of the Resurrection: Emphasize why the resurrection is central to Christian beliefs.

What Happened: Explain the Story

Evidence of the Resurrection (15 minutes)

Empty Tomb:

Biblical Accounts: Discuss the empty tomb as reported in the Gospels (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-10).

Historical Reliability: Highlight the historical reliability of these accounts and the significance of the empty tomb.

Post-Resurrection Appearances:

Eyewitness Testimonies: Share accounts of Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:3-8).Transformation of the Disciples: Explain how the disciples changed from being fearful to boldly proclaiming Jesus’ resurrection.

Early Christian Beliefs and Writings:

Creedal Statements: Reference early Christian creeds that affirm the resurrection (e.g., 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Martyrdom of the Apostles: Mention that many apostles were willing to die for their belief in the resurrection, which supports its truth.

The Growth of the Early Church:

Rapid Spread of Christianity: Discuss how the belief in the resurrection fueled the rapid growth of the early church despite persecution.

Addressing Common Doubts (5 minutes)

Swoon Theory: Address the theory that Jesus didn’t actually die but merely fainted.

Stolen Body Theory: Counter the claim that Jesus' body was stolen by his disciples.

Hallucination Theory: Discuss why mass hallucinations are implausible.

Conclusion and Application (5 minutes)

Summary of Key Points: Recap the evidence presented for the resurrection.

Personal Reflection: Encourage the youth to reflect on what the resurrection means for their own faith and life.

Call to Action: Challenge them to live out their faith boldly, knowing that Jesus is alive.

Closing Prayer

Pray for Understanding and Faith: Lead a prayer asking for deeper understanding and strengthened faith in the resurrection of Jesus.

Tips for Engaging the Youth

Interactive Elements: Incorporate questions and encourage participation.

Relatable Stories: Use analogies or stories that the youth can relate to.

Visual Aids: Consider using slides or visual aids to reinforce key points.