Easter

Fear Not: The Resurrection and Our Commission

Bible Passage: Mt 28:1–15, Mt 28:16–20, Mk 16:14–20, Jn 20:19–23

Summary: This passage captures the essence of the resurrection of Jesus, His appearances to the disciples, and the Great Commission, emphasizing the call to overcome fear through the presence of the risen Christ.

Application: This sermon can reassure Christians and those doubting their faith that Jesus’ resurrection signifies His victory over fear and death. It encourages us to embrace our commission to spread the Good News without fear, knowing that Jesus is always with us, providing love and strength.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the resurrection of Jesus transforms fear into hope and empowers believers to fulfill the Great Commission. It challenges the audience to step beyond their fears, trusting in Jesus' constancy and love as they proclaim the gospel.

How this passage could point to Christ: This theme highlights Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation, prevailing over sin and death and empowering the church to spread the message of His love and resurrection to all nations.

Big Idea: The resurrection of Jesus dispels our fears and equips us with the command to share His love with others, as we are assured of His presence in our mission.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider exploring the nuances of the Great Commission across the Gospels in your Logos library, paying attention to the differing emphases in each account. You might find value in examining the historical and cultural context of Jesus’ appearances to the disciples, especially in John's account. Additionally, look at commentaries that address the implications of the resurrection on fear and mission, which can deepen your understanding of the disciples' transformation.

1. Fear Not: The Empty Tomb

Mt 28:1–7

Perhaps you can start with the angel's message to the women at the tomb, emphasizing the command, "Do not be afraid" as the cornerstone of the resurrection narrative. Show how fear was dispelled at the empty tomb, asserting Jesus' victory over death. Suggest that this message applies to our own fears today, as we confront life's empty 'tombs' and find hope in Jesus' resurrection.

2. Faith Over Fearful Frenzy

Mt 28:8–15

You might focus on the reaction of the women and the guards, contrasting their actions and responses to the risen Jesus. Discuss how fear and joy can coexist and how the truth of the resurrection empowers us to choose faith over fear. Encourage the congregation to be like the women, spreading the joyful news rather than succumbing to fear like the guards.

3. Fearless with His Presence

Mt 28:16–20

Highlight the commissioning of the disciples as they encounter the risen Jesus, and emphasize the assurance Jesus gives by being with them always. This could reassure the audience that just as Jesus guided the disciples through their mission without fear, He accompanies us today as we fulfill our call to make disciples.

4. Faithful Despite Doubts

Mk 16:14–20

Considering the challenges the disciples faced even after seeing the risen Jesus, you could discuss how doubt and fear are overcome by His command and presence. Reinforce that our mission is not hindered by our imperfections because Jesus equips and empowers us. This might inspire the church to act boldly despite internal fears.

5. Fear Banished by Peace

Jn 20:19–23

Focus on Jesus' appearance to the fearful disciples behind locked doors and His words of peace and sending. Perhaps illustrate how Jesus imparts the Holy Spirit, replacing fear with peace and power. Conclude by inviting the congregation to receive this peace and boldness from the Spirit to step out beyond their fears.