He's Back...with Blessings

How did we get here? What are we doing here? Last week, Jesus was celebrated as a messiah who came into Jerusalem with a parade and heralded as the one who would be King. But, somewhere between Palm Sunday and Thursday things have changed. (Tell the Story)

I need someone who can do better than that who knows its not about no bunnies, no eggs, no chocolate, traditions, I am here because Jesus was dead and on the third day He got up!

The disciples were in the house afraid of the Jews. They are in a vulnerable place right now. Their leader is dead and missing, they know that, “If the leaders have the ability to have Jesus killed and he was perfect then what do you think they can do to us?” So, the door is locked, double bolted, chained, bared, and all. But, Jesus, finds a way anyway. And says Peace be with you.

Peace

For the Past-The first words out of Jesus’s mouth is a promise kept. He told them back in that they would mourn and the world would rejoice and the same way that a mother is in pain during child birth she rejoices after the baby is born, the disciples would rejoice again and receive peace because He would see them again. Jesus basically showed up and said fix your faces because I’m back like I said I would be.

For the Present-There is also the idea that Jesus is giving them the peace that comes from his conquering death and reconciling them back to God. And this is demonstrated by Jesus allowing them to examine his hands and side. He is saying you know its me! If he can overcome death by the cross you should have peace.

Peace for what He has Planned-You are going to have to face some things in life and you need to know that its not always going to be easy and the road ahead of you is rough but you have peace knowing you can make it.

Purpose

Purpose

Jesus was crucified because he was messing with the religious and political establishments of his day. He was at odds against the Pharisees. He was leading people away from traditions, the was raising issues of oppression when he flipped the tables in the Temple, and he loved those who were considered sinners and outsiders. So when Jesus is crucified the authorities believed they had destroyed Jesus’ kingdom agenda. But he got up! When Jesus is resurrected He gives the disciples the same purpose that he had. “As the Father sent me...”

How was he sent?-In and not of...

I send you.

Power

He breathed on them.

New creation. (Genesis) they are saved. (Ezekiel)

symbolic of the coming of the Holy Spirit

Germs and being contageous

God has given them the power to either give the means of forgiveness or not, by either telling people about Jesus or not. If you have been the recipient of a blessing. I wonder if got some people who know about Jesus and is willing to tell about him. About how he is...

Jesus is the Way out of no way.