The Resurrection (John 20:1-18)

John 20 takes us into the heart of resurrection morning, where darkness gives way to light and despair transforms into hope. We journey alongside Mary Magdalene as she discovers the empty tomb, her initial confusion and grief mirroring our own moments when God seems most absent. The sermon beautifully unpacks how the grave clothes left behind tell a story no grave robber could explain, how the folded face cloth speaks of intentionality and divine purpose. We're reminded that when Jesus speaks our name, everything changes. The message challenges us to examine our own response to the resurrection: will we mock, remain skeptical, or will we repent and worship? Through references to 1 Corinthians 15 and Acts 2, we see that the resurrection isn't just historical fact but the foundation of our faith. If Christ hasn't been raised, we are of all people most to be pitied. But because He has risen, we have hope beyond this life, victory over death, and a calling to proclaim this good news. The resurrection meets us in our darkest moments and calls us by name, awakening faith where grief once lived.