AFTER EASTER
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 21:1-19
“Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself… but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands…”
Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, Luke 24:45-53, Romans 6:4, Philippians 3:10
INTRODUCTION:
Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ – the victory over sin, death, and the grave. Churches are full, the songs are loud, and hope is renewed. However, the question that often follows the celebration is: What comes after Easter? For many, Easter ends with the final service, but for Jesus and His disciples, it marked the beginning of a greater purpose.
After Easter, Jesus did not simply ascend and leave; He appeared, taught, restored, empowered, and commissioned. It was after Easter that the disciples truly began to understand their calling and responsibility. The resurrection was not the end of the story – it was the beginning of the mission.
This message reminds us that the resurrection power must not end at the tomb; it must transform our daily living. After Easter, we must walk in renewed purpose, deeper fellowship with Christ, and a commitment to His mission.
1. AFTER EASTER COMES RESTORATION
Jesus came to restore what was broken in the hearts of His disciples.
a) Restoration of Relationship
Jesus sought Peter who had denied Him and drew him back into intimacy (John 21:15).
b) Healing of Guilt and Shame
The risen Christ removed condemnation and gave grace (Romans 8:1).
c) Reaffirmation of Identity
Jesus reminded them they were still His disciples and friends (John 20:19-21).
d) Renewal of Fellowship
He broke bread again with them, reestablishing unity (Luke 24:30-31).
Biblical Example: Peter, once broken and ashamed, was restored by Jesus’ threefold question: “Do you love Me?” (John 21:15-17).
2. AFTER EASTER COMES REVELATION
Jesus opened the eyes and understanding of His followers.
a) Scripture Was Unveiled
He explained how all Scriptures pointed to Him (Luke 24:27).
b) Hearts Were Set on Fire
Revelation produced renewed passion and faith (Luke 24:32).
c) Truth Replaced Doubt
The risen Christ confronted their unbelief with evidence (Luke 24:38-40).
d) Spiritual Eyes Were Opened
The disciples recognised Him in the breaking of bread (Luke 24:31).
Biblical Example: The two disciples on the road to Emmaus had their understanding opened by Jesus Himself (Luke 24:13-35).
3. AFTER EASTER COMES COMMISSIONING
The resurrection prepared the disciples for divine assignment.
a) A Call to Preach the Gospel
Jesus gave the Great Commission to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19).
b) Empowered to Be Witnesses
He promised power from the Holy Ghost for effective ministry (Acts 1:8).
c) A Life of Sacrifice and Service
He warned of the cost but guaranteed the reward (John 21:18-19).
d) A Mandate to Represent Christ
Believers are now ambassadors of the risen Lord (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Biblical Example: Jesus told Peter, “Feed my sheep,” giving him responsibility to care for the flock (John 21:16).
4. AFTER EASTER COMES TRANSFORMATION
The resurrection power transforms lives from within.
a) Newness of Life
Believers are raised with Christ into a new life (Romans 6:4).
b) Pursuit of Holiness
The risen Christ calls us to righteous living (1 Peter 1:15).
c) Freedom from Sin
Resurrection breaks the power of sin and death (Romans 6:9-11).
d) Christ Lives Through Us
We no longer live for self, but for Him (Galatians 2:20).
Biblical Example: Paul, once Saul the persecutor, became a mighty apostle through resurrection power (Acts 9:3-20).
5. AFTER EASTER COMES EXPECTATION
The resurrection shifts our focus to His second coming.
a) A Hope That Purifies
We live ready and expectant for His return (1 John 3:2-3).
b) An Urgency for Souls
Knowing He’s returning compels us to evangelise (2 Corinthians 5:11).
c) A Life of Watchfulness
Believers must be alert and discerning (Matthew 25:13).
d) A Mindset of Eternity
We no longer live for this world alone (Colossians 3:1-2).
Biblical Example: The angels told the disciples, “This same Jesus… shall so come in like manner” (Acts 1:10-11).
CONCLUSION:
Easter is not a one-day event. It is a doorway into a lifestyle of purpose, power, and preparation. The empty tomb points to a full life in Christ. We must not return to “normal” after Easter, but rise with Christ into restoration, revelation, mission, transformation, and expectation.
The risen Jesus is still calling, restoring, empowering, and sending people today. After Easter, what will you do with the risen Christ? Let His resurrection move you to a deeper walk, a stronger faith, and a bolder witness.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for the resurrection that gives me hope and purpose.
2. Father, restore every broken area in my life by Your resurrection power.
3. Open my eyes to understand Your word and my calling.
4. Empower me to fulfil the Great Commission boldly.
5. Help me to live with eternity in view every day.
