RESURRECTION SUNDAY: JESUS IS ALIVE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 24:1–7
Supporting Texts: Romans 6:9–10, Revelation 1:18, John 11:25–26, Acts 2:24, 1 Corinthians 15:3–8
INTRODUCTION:
Resurrection Sunday is not a mere religious occasion—it is the celebration of the greatest victory in the history of mankind. It is the day we declare without shame or apology that Jesus is alive! The tomb is empty, the grave has lost its power, and death has been swallowed up in victory.
The resurrection of Christ is the foundation upon which Christianity stands. If He did not rise, our faith is in vain. But glory be to God, He is risen just as He said! This resurrection changes everything—it brings hope to the hopeless, life to the dead, and strength to the weary.
Today, we do not mourn at a grave. We rejoice at an empty tomb. Jesus is not dead—He is alive forevermore! This living Jesus walks with us, talks with us, and empowers us. Let us now explore the significance of this glorious truth.
1. JESUS’ RESURRECTION PROVES HE IS THE SON OF GOD
Before the subpoints, it is important to understand that Jesus' resurrection was not just a miracle—it was a divine declaration of His identity and authority.
a) It validates His divine authority
Jesus declared He would rise again, and when He did, it proved He is who He claimed to be—God in the flesh (John 2:19–21).
b) It affirms His victory over sin and death
Romans 6:9–10 reminds us that death no longer has dominion over Him. He conquered it completely.
c) It establishes Him as the only Saviour
No other religious leader ever rose from the dead. The resurrection places Jesus above all others as the only true Redeemer.
d) It reveals the power of God at work in Him
Acts 2:24 says God raised Him up, loosing the pains of death because it was not possible for death to hold Him.
Biblical Example: Thomas doubted until Jesus appeared and showed him His wounds. Then Thomas cried, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:26–28).
2. JESUS’ RESURRECTION GIVES HOPE TO THE BELIEVER
This is not just a historical truth—it is a personal assurance for every believer that our future is secured in Christ.
a) It gives assurance of eternal life
John 11:25–26: “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” Death is no longer the end for us.
b) It brings hope in hopeless situations
Because Jesus lives, we can face tomorrow, knowing He holds our future.
c) It gives comfort to the grieving
The resurrection assures us that those who died in Christ will live again.
d) It encourages us to endure trials
Knowing that the same Spirit that raised Jesus is in us, we can endure every challenge with hope and joy.
Biblical Example: The two disciples on the road to Emmaus had lost hope, but their hearts burned with joy when the risen Jesus walked with them (Luke 24:13–32).
3. JESUS’ RESURRECTION EMPOWERS THE CHURCH
The power of resurrection was never meant to be admired from afar—it was given to empower the believer and the Church.
a) It activates the Holy Spirit in us
Romans 8:11 says the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead gives life to our mortal bodies.
b) It gives us boldness to witness
After the resurrection, fearful disciples became fearless preachers of the gospel.
c) It enables us to live above sin
The resurrected life empowers us to walk in holiness and righteousness (Romans 6:4).
d) It energises us to do greater works
Jesus said, “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19). His life is now our strength.
Biblical Example: Peter, once afraid, stood up after the resurrection and led 3,000 souls to Christ on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14–41).
4. JESUS’ RESURRECTION BREAKS EVERY CHAIN
Resurrection power is not just symbolic—it is real power that shatters bondage and limitations.
a) It sets us free from the power of sin
Sin lost its grip because Christ lives in us with victory.
b) It liberates us from fear and shame
The fear of death, failure, and the past is broken by the risen Christ.
c) It releases us into divine destiny
We are no longer bound by what held us—we are free to fulfil God’s purpose.
d) It guarantees our complete deliverance
Whatever could not hold Jesus cannot hold us. We rise with Him into liberty and glory.
Biblical Example: Mary Magdalene, once possessed by demons, became the first evangelist of the resurrection (John 20:11–18).
5. JESUS’ RESURRECTION IS A CALL TO ACTION
The resurrection is not just to be celebrated—it must be lived out and proclaimed.
a) It calls us to live with purpose
We were raised with Christ to live in righteousness and purpose (Colossians 3:1–3).
b) It calls us to share the gospel
The world must hear that Jesus is alive, and we are His witnesses.
c) It calls us to walk in resurrection power
No more living like victims—we are more than conquerors through Him.
d) It calls us to prepare for His return
Because He lives, we also await His glorious return. Let us not be found sleeping.
Biblical Example: The women at the tomb ran quickly with joy to tell the good news to the disciples (Matthew 28:8).
CONCLUSION:
The resurrection of Jesus is not a myth or a religious tale—it is the most powerful truth in all creation. Jesus is not in the grave. He is alive, and because He lives, we live also. This resurrection is not just a past event; it is our present power and future hope.
Let this Resurrection Sunday awaken in us a deeper love for the Saviour and a renewed commitment to live for Him. The tomb is empty, the throne is occupied, and Jesus is alive forevermore!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord Jesus, thank You for the power of Your resurrection that lives in me.
2. By Your resurrection, let every dead thing in my life come back to life.
3. Father, fill me with resurrection power to overcome sin, fear, and failure.
4. Lord, help me to walk in boldness and declare that You are alive.
5. Let the reality of the resurrection bring revival in my home, church, and nation.
