Podcasts about 1 Corinthians 15

Episode #326 of 15 Minutes and a Big Idea. A Podcast by The Mended Collective. In this episode, we examine 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. Big Idea: The Christian Hope is Bodily Resurrection 1) No Hope is Pitiable 2) Christ is the Second Adam 3) Christ is the First Fruits Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/15bigidea/?view_public_for=110691360592088 The Mended Collective: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSlUSkU2N0UEy4Bq1HgpFEQ Email: 15bigideapodcast@gmail.com Theme Music: "Advertime" by Rafael Krux

Because of Christ's resurrection, our work for the Lord has eternal significance. Though our time on earth is brief and ministry can often feel difficult, unnoticed, or fruitless, God sees every act of faith, service, obedience, and gospel ministry. While our earthly bodies will not last, the work we do for Christ will carry into eternity, resulting in eternal rewards,. Therefore, believers should remain steadfast, making sacrificial choices that reflect their hope in the resurrection. Keep serving faithfully, work hard for the Lord, and stay focused on eternal things. Invest your life in what truly lasts, without becoming attached to the temporary things of this world.

1 Corinthians 15:29–34 (ESV) 29 Otherwise, what do people mean by being baptized on behalf of the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized on their behalf? 30 Why are we in danger every hour? 31 I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die every day! 32 What do I gain if, humanly speaking, I fought with beasts at Ephesus? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.” 33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 34 Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning. For some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame. LIVE IN THE PEACE ANDPLEASURE OF ANTICIPATING YOUR FUTURE RESURRECTED LIFE WITH CHRIST AND REMAIN VIGILANTAGAINST THE DECEIT OF THE PERISHING PLEASURE OF SIN IN THIS LIFEPEOPLE KNOW THERE ISLIFE AFTER DEATH, THAT'S WHY SOME SEEK SALVATION TO LATE (v29) WE KNOW THERE IS LIFE AFTER DEATH, THAT'S WHY ARE SATISFIED TOSUFFER DAILY IN ANTICIPATION (v30-32)    WE MUST APPLY WHAT WE KNOW, IN OUR THEOLOGY , IN OUR COMPANY, AND IN OUR MISSION (v32-34)  

This episode is a study from the book of 1 Corinthians, with Pastor David Rosales of Calvary Chapel Chino Valley. This message was taught on June 10th, 2026. Support us by checking out our other social media platforms! Youtube: ⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@CCChinoValley⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠www.calvaryccv.org⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠www.facebook.com/CalvaryChapelChinoValley⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/calvaryccv⁠⁠

Episode #326 of 15 Minutes and a Big Idea. A Podcast by The Mended Collective. In this episode, we examine 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. Big Idea: There is a Resurrection 1) Christ's Resurrection Implies Ours 2) We are Not False Witnesses of God 3) We are Not in Sin Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/15bigidea/?view_public_for=110691360592088 The Mended Collective: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSlUSkU2N0UEy4Bq1HgpFEQ Email: 15bigideapodcast@gmail.com Theme Music: "Advertime" by Rafael Krux

“If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.”…we should be living in such a way…with our obedience, our worship, our risk-taking out of faith, our selfless loving and serving other people, our bold proclamation of the gospel, our denying our flesh, our giving of our time and resources, pursuits, desires, decisions out of trust, living that is diametrically different than the world…where if we were to one day find out that there is no resurrection from the dead when this life is over, we would look like the most foolish people to ever live! And I fear…I fear for myself and for other believers…that we are living in such a way, where IF it were to be proven that there is no resurrection…our lives would look exactly the same…not pitiable at all, the same as everyone else in the world. Believers, we should be living in such a way… where the ONLY explanation for the decisions we make and all our behavior… is that I will be raised from the dead when this life is over!

Anthony Gammage preaches on 1 Corinthians 15:20-34 on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

What are you hoping for? A change in your circumstances? Healing for someone you love? A brighter future? We all place our hope in something—but what if true hope reaches beyond this life?This week, Julie Coleman takes us into 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul reveals the foundation of Christian hope and why the resurrection is essential to the gospel itself. Listen and discover the hope that changes everything.

Andy Bruins preaching from 1 Corinthians on Sunday 7th June 2026 at the morning service.

How to Have Hope When Death & Fear Feel Overwhelming 1 Corinthians 15:50–58 is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. When life feels uncertain, where can you find a hope that cannot be shaken? In this week’s episode of the Riot Podcast, we conclude our journey through one of the most powerful chapters in all of Scripture 1 Corinthians 15. In these final verses, Paul reveals a breathtaking truth that changes everything: because Jesus Christ rose from the dead, death does not have the final word. The world is filled with uncertainty, suffering, loss, sickness, and fear. Many people spend their lives trying to avoid thinking about death or searching for security in things that cannot last. But Paul points believers to a greater hope, one that is not rooted in circumstances, emotions, or wishful thinking, but in the victory of the resurrected Christ. In this episode, we explore: Why every believer must be transformed to inherit God’s eternal Kingdom The mystery Paul reveals about Christ’s return and the resurrection What it means to be changed “in the twinkling of an eye” Why immortality is central to Christian hope How Christianity offers transformation, not merely self-improvement Why Christians can face death differently than the world How Jesus removed the sting of death through His victory over sin The ultimate victory believers have through Christ Why resurrection hope produces steadfastness, courage, and purpose today How to remain faithful when fear, suffering, and uncertainty feel overwhelming Paul’s triumphant declaration still echoes through history: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” Because Jesus conquered the grave: Fear does not have to control you Death does not have to terrify you Suffering is not meaningless Your future is secure in Christ Your labor for the Lord is never in vain The resurrection is not merely a future promise, it is present hope. It changes how we face loss, hardship, uncertainty, and even death itself. If you’ve ever struggled with fear about the future, anxiety about death, or questions about eternity, this episode will encourage your heart and strengthen your faith. Because Christ is risen, hope is alive. Thanks for listening and don’t forget to: Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our Youtube Channel Follow us on Rumble The RIOT PODCAST is a listener-supported podcast: Donate Now

Hear Stephen Wood preach from 1 Corinthians 15:20-34 continuing our sermon series on the resurrection. Stephen gave this sermon at Liberti River Wards church on April 26, 2026.

Pete Sorrenson speaking on 1 Corinthians 15

Episode #325 of 15 Minutes and a Big Idea. A Podcast by The Mended Collective. In this episode, we examine 1 Corinthians 15:9-11. Big Idea: The Gospel is Transformational, Not the Preacher 1) Paul is Least 2) Grace is Symbiotic 3) The Word Leads to Faith Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/15bigidea/?view_public_for=110691360592088 The Mended Collective: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSlUSkU2N0UEy4Bq1HgpFEQ Email: 15bigideapodcast@gmail.com Theme Music: "Advertime" by Rafael Krux

Daily Evening Prayer (6/1/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalms 6-8; Esther 6; 1 Corinthians 15; Metrical Psalms 29:6-116 They, and the hills on which they grow, are sometimes hurried far away; And leap like hinds that bounding go, or unicorns in youthful play. 7,8 When God in thunder loudly speaks, and scattered flames of lightning sends, The forest nods, the desert quakes, and stubborn Kadesh lowly bends. He makes the hinds to cast their young, and lays the beasts' dark coverts bare; While those that to his courts belong securely sing his praises there. 10,11 God rules the angry floods on high; his boundless sway shall never cease; His people he'll with strength supply, and bless his own with constant peace.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

1 Corinthians 15:23–28 (ESV) But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his comingthose who belong to Christ. 24 Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. 25 For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27 For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him. 28 When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all.THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST WAS THE POWER OF GOD,THAT DECLARED THE FULFILLED PROMISE OF GOD,THAT WILL BRING YOU INTO THE PRESENCE OF GOD FOREVER.LIVE REJOICING IN THE COMPLETE SUBJECTION OF ALL THINGS TO CHRIST (v27)27 For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him.LIVE ANTICIPATING THE COMPLETE SATISFACTION OF ALL THINGS WHEN GOD IS ALL IN ALL (v28)28 When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all.

Anthony Gammage preaches on 1 Corinthians 15:1-19 on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Daily Evening Prayer (6/1/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalms 6-8; Esther 6; 1 Corinthians 15; Metrical Psalms 29:6-116 They, and the hills on which they grow, are sometimes hurried far away; And leap like hinds that bounding go, or unicorns in youthful play. 7,8 When God in thunder loudly speaks, and scattered flames of lightning sends, The forest nods, the desert quakes, and stubborn Kadesh lowly bends. He makes the hinds to cast their young, and lays the beasts' dark coverts bare; While those that to his courts belong securely sing his praises there. 10,11 God rules the angry floods on high; his boundless sway shall never cease; His people he'll with strength supply, and bless his own with constant peace.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Preached by Lead Pastor, Rev. Aubrey Spears, on May 31, 2026.

Preached by Lead Pastor, Rev. Aubrey Spears, on May 31, 2026.

This episode is a study from the book of 1 Corinthians, with Pastor David Rosales of Calvary Chapel Chino Valley. This message was taught on May 27th, 2026. Support us by checking out our other social media platforms! Youtube: ⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@CCChinoValley⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠www.calvaryccv.org⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠www.facebook.com/CalvaryChapelChinoValley⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/calvaryccv⁠⁠

00:00:00 Psalm 14800:01:17 1 Corinthians 1500:07:28 Numbers 3100:13:58 Isaiah 5300:16:07 Gospilled Minute: Waters of the UniverseDay 148 Commentary and Content:https://andrewhorval.substack.com/p/route-66-day-148

Help Persecuted Christians TODAY: https://csi-usa.org/quickstart/ Christian Solidarity International On today's Quick Start podcast: NEWS: President Donald Trump refuses to budge in nuclear negotiations with Iran, tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz, and Israel launches major strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. FOCUS STORY: Three Virginia students are taking legal action after being denied college tuition grant funds, sparking a debate over fairness, education policy, and constitutional rights. MAIN THING: More than 94,000 automatic license plate readers are now tracking vehicles across America — capturing locations, movements, and even bumper stickers. Supporters call it crime-fighting technology, while critics warn of a growing surveillance state with little oversight. LAST THING: 1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds believers to stay steadfast in the work of the Lord, knowing their labor is never in vain. SHOW LINKS Radical Revelations with Raj Nair https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-revelations/id1888511250 Faith in Culture: https://cbn.com/news/faith-culture Heaven Meets Earth PODCAST: https://cbn.com/lp/heaven-meets-earth NEWSMAKERS POD: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/newsmakers/id1724061454

What would the Christian faith be like if Christ had not been raised from the dead? It's hard to imagine what that would be like, but we can assume that such a worldview would be devoid of power and hope, relegated only to teachings about morals and good behavior. In today's reading, Paul addresses those within the church who say that Christ was not raised and that there is not resurrection from the dead. Declaring such a faith to be pitiable, Paul moves on to talk about the coming resurrection, reassuring the church that Christ's resurrection guarantees our resurrection. The change that occurs between one's earthly body and one's heavenly body can be compared to a seed that is planted in the ground which sprouts something very different. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

1 Corinthians 15:23–26 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. 24 Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. 25 For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy to be destroyed is death.THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST WAS THE POWER OF GOD,THAT DECLARED THE FULFILLED PROMISE OF GOD,THAT WILL BRING YOU INTO THE PRESENCE OF GOD FOREVER.LIVE ANTICIPATING THE END, THE KINGDOM COMPLETE (v24a)LIVE ANTICIPATING THE END OF EVERY OTHER AUTHORITY (v24b-25)LIVE ANTICIPATING THE END OF THE LAST ENEMY (v26)

Episode #324 of 15 Minutes and a Big Idea. A Podcast by The Mended Collective. In this episode, we examine 1 Corinthians 15:3-8. Big Idea: The Gospel is Christ's Death, Burial, and Resurrection 1) The Gospel is Historical 2) The Gospel is Foretold. 3) The Gospel is Verifiable. Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/15bigidea/?view_public_for=110691360592088 The Mended Collective: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSlUSkU2N0UEy4Bq1HgpFEQ Email: 15bigideapodcast@gmail.com Theme Music: "Advertime" by Rafael Krux

Preached by Lead Pastor, Rev. Aubrey Spears, on May 24, 2026.

My name is Rev. Alvin Lewis of Power To Change Ministry. Thank you for sharing your day with us, we would love to hear from you, your feedback is very important.1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV 1900)58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.Power To Change Ministry           Rev. Alvin LewisPowertochangeministry@gmail.ComPowertochangeministry.org973-583-7482

Preached by Lead Pastor, Rev. Aubrey Spears, on May 24, 2026.

Lead Pastor Scott Brooks preaches from 1 Corinthians 15:35-58.

Campus Pastor Brad Larson preaches from 1 Corinthians 15:35-58.

5/24/2026 - 1 Corinthians 15:17-22, 51-58 - The Importance of the Resurrection by Richard Schwartz

The sermon presents a robust theological defense of the bodily resurrection, rooted in 1 Corinthians 15, emphasizing that Christian hope is not merely a disembodied existence in heaven but a future reality of glorified, physical bodies transformed by the Holy Spirit. Paul counters skepticism by using analogies from nature—such as seed and soil, and the diversity of earthly and heavenly bodies—to illustrate that resurrection involves continuity and transformation, not annihilation. The resurrected body is described as imperishable, glorious, powerful, and spiritual—not in opposition to physicality, but as a body empowered by divine life, reflecting Christ's own resurrection as the firstfruits of a new creation. This transformation is not merely a future event but is already anticipated in the present through the indwelling Spirit, who enables believers to live in anticipation of a life fully conformed to Christ, the heavenly man, and thus to bear His image. The sermon calls the church to steadfastness, service, and worship, grounded in the certainty that the same power that raised Christ will raise believers, making their present lives meaningful and their bodies sacred vessels of God's redemptive purpose.

“After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. And the last enemy to be destroyed is death.” (1 Corinthians 15:24–26 NLT) When we lose a loved one, there’s a time and place for mourning. The depth of our sorrow is an indication of the depth of our love for that person. But there’s also a place for rejoicing if that loved one is a believer because we know we will see them again. Even Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus when He saw the devastating power of death. Death is an enemy, although one whose fate is already determined. The apostle Paul wrote, “After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. And the last enemy to be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15:24–26 NLT). No one wants to die. After all, this life is all we know. No one looks forward to the end of it. But the reality is that we all will die. That’s why it’s important to put our faith in Christ before we enter eternity. It’s also important that we not lose sight of what awaits believers when we die. The Bible doesn’t offer pictorials of Heaven, but it does provide some tantalizing descriptions. Paul was given a glimpse of Heaven and tried to put his experience into words. “I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know—only God knows. Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know that I was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell” (2 Corinthians 12:2–4 NLT). (We’ll explore this passage further next week in our study of 2 Corinthians.) You’ll notice that he used the word paradise to describe what he saw. Paradise is a Greek word that refers to the royal garden of a king. Think about the most beautiful garden you’ve ever seen. If you’re not into gardens, think about the most amazing sight you’ve ever laid eyes on. That’s the depiction of Heaven Paul gave. He was saying, “I don’t really have the words for it, but it was like a paradise.” As Pastor Adrian Rogers put it, “The God who sculpted the wings of the butterfly, blended the hues of the rainbow, and painted the meadows with daffodils is the same who made Heaven.” In Heaven all questions are answered, all tears are dried, and all pain is gone. Heaven is pure bliss. That’s why Paul said that he longed to be there. He saw for himself that Heaven is far, far better than earth. And that’s what all believers can look forward to. Reflection question: What are your feelings about Heaven? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1 CORINTHIANS 15:19-23SERMON HANDOUTIf in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. 20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.

Jesus makes it possible for us to know that when he returns we will receive a perfect new body that will never wear out and will always glorify God.

Episode #323 of 15 Minutes and a Big Idea. A Podcast by The Mended Collective. In this episode, we examine 1 Corinthians 15:1-2. Big Idea: The Gospel is Central 1) The Gospel is a Declaration. 2) The Gospel Must Be Repeated. 3) The Gospel Saves. Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/15bigidea/?view_public_for=110691360592088 The Mended Collective: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSlUSkU2N0UEy4Bq1HgpFEQ Email: 15bigideapodcast@gmail.com Theme Music: "Advertime" by Rafael Krux

Student Minister Mark McPherson preaches from 1 Corinthians 15:12-34.

Campus Pastor Brad Larson preaches from 1 Corinthians 15:12-34.

May 17, 2026 1 Corinthians 15:35-49 by Grace Bible Church

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The truth of the resurrection of Jesus and his followers has profound implications for how we live and how we die.

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/1Samuel6–8;Psalm119:9–16;1Corinthians15–16 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Welcome to Day 2854 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2854 – “He is Risen Indeed!”  based on 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 Putnam Church Message – 04/05/2026 Resurrection Sunday – “He is Risen Indeed!”   Last week's message was: “Behold He Comes!” This covered the entire Passion Week, with the launching point of Zechariah 9:9 Today, our focus is on Resurrection Sunday. Today's message is: “He is Risen Indeed!”  We will celebrate the resurrected Christ and the assurance we have in the salvation that He brings. Our core verses this week are 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 20-23  3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.  20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died. 21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. 23 But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.     Opening Prayer Father in heaven, on this Resurrection Sunday, we come with gratitude, wonder, and praise. Open our eyes to see the glory of Your Son. Open our hearts to receive the power of the empty tomb. For those who are joyful, deepen their joy. For those who are weary, strengthen their faith. For those who are grieving, breathe hope again. For those who are uncertain, make the truth of Christ's resurrection clear and living. May this not be just a familiar holiday to us, but a holy encounter with the risen Lord. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Introduction This morning our message is titled: “He Is Risen Indeed!” That is more than a phrase. It is more than a tradition. It is more than a beautiful greeting to exchange on Easter morning. Across the centuries, believers in many lands have greeted one another with words like these: “Christ is risen!” - “He is risen indeed!”  Why has the church loved that greeting so much? Because Easter is not simply about springtime, flowers, new grass, warmer days, or the turning of the seasons. Easter is not the church's way of saying, “Things will probably get better.” Easter is not vague optimism. Easter is not religious cheerfulness. Easter is the declaration that Jesus Christ, who was crucified, buried, and mourned, has bodily risen from the dead. That changes everything. The four Gospels all testify to this glorious truth. Matthew tells us about the earthquake, the angel, and the guards' fear. Mark emphasizes the shock and amazement of the women at the tomb. Luke draws us into the confusion, the angelic reminder, and the burning hearts on the Emmaus Road. John gives us the intimacy of Mary Magdalene in the garden, Peter and John running to the tomb, and the risen Christ calling His sheep by name. Each Gospel brings its own emphasis, but together they proclaim one great truth: The tomb is empty because Jesus is alive. And because He is alive, we do not merely have a memory to cherish. We have a Savior to trust, a Lord to follow, and a living hope to sustain us. Main Point 1: The Resurrection Is a Real Event, Not a Religious Idea At the center of Easter is not a mood, but a miracle. Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark or just at dawn, the women came to the tomb. That detail matters. They were not coming to celebrate a victory. They were coming to mourn a death. They brought spices. They expected a sealed grave. They were not looking for resurrection. They were looking for a body. That is why the empty tomb startled them so deeply. Matthew says the stone was rolled away. Mark says they wondered who would move the stone. Luke says they found the stone rolled away and did not find the body. John says Mary Magdalene saw the stone had been moved and ran to tell the disciples. This is not the language of people inventing a legend to comfort themselves. This is the language of startled witnesses who encountered something unexpected. Expanded Narrative In the first-century Jewish world, burial mattered deeply. Graves were places of finality. Bodies were wrapped, laid to rest, and mourned. A large stone meant closure. For Jewish families, proper burial was an act of honor and reverence. No one visited a tomb on the third day expecting a loved one to walk out. That is what makes Easter morning so startling. The women go in sorrow, not anticipation. Peter runs in confusion. John stoops and sees the linen wrappings lying there. Mary stands outside weeping, thinking someone has taken the Lord away. This is not fantasy. This is eyewitness faith born out of astonishment. And the church, that matters because Christianity stands or falls on this. If Christ has not been raised, then our faith is empty. But if He has been raised, then everything He said is true, everything He accomplished on the cross is complete, and everything He promised is secure. Illustration Sometimes people want Easter to mean only that “hope rises” in a poetic sense. But that is like saying a check is valuable because it is beautifully written, even if there is no money in the account. The beauty of the words means little without the reality behind them. The power of Easter is not that it sounds inspiring. The power of Easter lies in the fact that it happened. Object Lesson Bring a sealed envelope and an open envelope. Say: “A sealed envelope means the message is still hidden. But an opened envelope means the message has been revealed. The tomb was sealed, but on Easter morning it was opened. God was declaring to the world that His Son had conquered death.” Related Scriptures 1 Corinthians 15:14, 17 – If Christ has not been raised, our faith is useless. Psalm 16:10 – God would not allow His Holy One to rot in the grave. Acts 2:24 – It was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him. Romans 1:4 – Jesus was shown to be the Son of God in power by His resurrection from the dead. Summary of Main Point 1 Easter is not built on religious imagination but on a real, historical resurrection. The empty tomb, the startled witnesses, and the transformed disciples all point to the same conclusion: Jesus truly rose from the dead. Our faith is not resting on symbolism alone, but on a risen Savior. Main Point 2: The Resurrection Gives Us a Living Hope Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:3: "All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, A better phrase is this: a living hope. Not a dead hope. Not a faint hope. Not a wishful hope. Not a seasonal hope. A living hope. Why is it living? Because it is tied to a living Christ. If Jesus were only a memory, then hope would eventually fade into sentiment. But because Jesus is alive, hope lives too. Expanded Narrative Peter knew what he was talking about. He had failed Jesus publicly. He had denied Him three times. He had wept bitterly. By Friday night, Peter's courage was gone. By Saturday, his hope must have felt shattered. But then came Sunday morning. Then came the empty tomb. Then came the risen Christ. The man who once cowered before a servant girl would later stand and preach Christ boldly. Why? Because the resurrection changed him. And Peter later wrote to believers who were suffering. They were not living easy lives. They were facing pressure, hardship, misunderstanding, and persecution. Peter did not tell them to pretend life was simple. He did not tell them to smile more and think positively. He pointed them to the resurrection. That is Christian realism. The New Testament does not deny trouble. It...