Encountering the Tomb – the Intentionality of the Resurrection

Encountering the Tomb – the Intentionality of the Resurrection

Matthew 28:1-8

1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

· Intentional wording – Without question, it’s Sunday morning… at sunrise. Two women, alone.

· Intentional in coming – They came to serve; they came to finish the embalming.

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

· Intentional in sending an Angel – messengers of God.

· Intentional in using an earthquake – It was not meant to be a secret – and it’s not meant to be one today.

3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

· Intentional in appearance – Noticeably not a person – God removing all doubt.

4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

· Intentional in how they came – the encounter was for the women, and it was not to be interrupted.

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

· Intentional in bringing Hope, peace, comfort, but never fear.

6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

· Intentional in leaving – In His resurrection we have a hope of being resurrected ourselves.

7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

· Intentional instructions – that is how we are to be in our going and telling / sharing the Gospel.

8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

Intentional in how they left – quickly. How about you, are you intentional in your sharing of the Gospel and do you go quickly?