4/12/2020 Easter Service

“The Stone and Empty Tomb” Mark 16:1-8 Pastor Erik J. Ferguson Sermon Idea: What man meant for harm, God meant for God (Genesis 50:20). Body: I. Contrast #1: The stone symbolized human effort; whereas, the empty tomb symbolized divine intervention. A. The stone that stopped Jesus’ tomb was tediously rolled into place by men. B. The stone that stopped Jesus’ tomb was adequately sealed by men. C. The empty tomb was effortlessly displayed by an angelic visitor. —Matthew 28:2. II. Contrast #2: The stone symbolized separation; whereas, the empty tomb symbolized accessibility. A. The stone pronounced an impenetrable barrier--Romans 3:22b-24; Romans 6:23. B. The empty tomb revealed a universal opportunity--1 Timothy 2:14; 2 Peter 3:9; Mark 10:13. III. Contrast #3: The stone symbolized hopelessness; whereas, the empty tomb symbolized hopefulness. A. Means #1: The stone expressed defeat. B. Means #2: The stone declared anguish. C. Means #3: The stone demonstrated finality. D. The empty tomb proclaimed victory--1 Corinthians 15:55-57. Concluding Thought: The tomb is empty and Jesus is alive!