AFTER EASTER - FROM THE EMPTY TOMB TO A FULL LIFE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 10:10 – “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
Supporting Texts: John 20:1–29, Romans 6:4, Colossians 3:1-4, Philippians 3:10, Luke 24:5-6
INTRODUCTION:
Easter marks the greatest turning point in human history—the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. The empty tomb is not just a symbol of victory over death; it is the doorway to a new and abundant life for every believer. The resurrection is not the conclusion of the Gospel story; it is the launching pad into a life of purpose, power, and promise.
Many celebrate Easter but return to life as usual, not realising that the resurrection of Jesus is meant to change everything. From fear to faith, from doubt to revelation, and from spiritual dryness to overflowing life, the post-resurrection experience is rich and transformative. Easter is not an event—it is an entrance into a new reality.
This message explores how believers must move beyond the empty tomb into the full life Christ promised. It is a call to live in the power of the risen Lord and to embrace the fullness of what His resurrection secured for us.
1. THE EMPTY TOMB DECLARES VICTORY
The resurrection proves that Jesus conquered sin, death, and the grave.
a) Proof of Divine Authority
Christ’s resurrection confirmed His divine nature and power (Romans 1:4).
b) Defeat of Sin and Death
The grave could not hold Him—sin’s power is broken (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
c) The End of Fear
The disciples moved from hiding to boldness because He rose (John 20:19-20).
d) Foundation of Our Faith
If Christ is not risen, our faith is in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).
Biblical Example: The angel at the tomb declared, “He is not here: for He is risen” (Matthew 28:6).
2. THE RESURRECTION UNLOCKS NEW LIFE
Christ’s victory brings us into spiritual renewal and transformation.
a) A New Identity
Believers are now new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
b) A New Nature
We are dead to sin and alive to God (Romans 6:4-11).
c) A New Focus
Our minds are set on things above (Colossians 3:1-2).
d) A New Purpose
We now live for Him who died and rose again (2 Corinthians 5:15).
Biblical Example: Saul’s transformation to Paul began after his encounter with the risen Christ (Acts 9:3-6).
3. THE RISEN CHRIST GIVES FULLNESS OF LIFE
Jesus came not just to save us, but to fill us with abundant life.
a) Spiritual Fulfilment
True life is found only in Christ (John 14:6).
b) Joy Beyond Circumstance
Resurrection joy is enduring and powerful (John 16:22).
c) Peace in the Midst of Trouble
He gives peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).
d) Empowerment to Thrive
The same Spirit that raised Jesus lives in us (Romans 8:11).
Biblical Example: The lame man at the Beautiful Gate received more than alms—he received abundant life (Acts 3:1-8).
4. THE RESURRECTION CALLS US TO WITNESS
The empty tomb empowers us to proclaim the risen Christ.
a) A Message to Proclaim
The Gospel centres on His death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
b) A Mission to Fulfil
We are called to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).
c) A Power to Demonstrate
The Holy Ghost empowers us to be witnesses (Acts 1:8).
d) A Light to Shine
Our lives should reflect the living Christ (Matthew 5:14-16).
Biblical Example: Mary Magdalene became the first messenger of the resurrection (John 20:17-18).
5. THE EMPTY TOMB POINTS TO ETERNAL HOPE
Our hope extends beyond this life because He lives forever.
a) Hope of Resurrection
We too shall rise because He lives (1 Thessalonians 4:14).
b) Promise of Eternal Life
Eternal life is secured in the resurrection (John 11:25-26).
c) Glory That Awaits
Suffering today will give way to glory tomorrow (Romans 8:18).
d) Victory Over the Grave
Death is swallowed in victory (1 Corinthians 15:54).
Biblical Example: Jesus told the thief on the cross, “Today, you shall be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).
CONCLUSION:
The empty tomb is not the end—it’s the beginning of abundant life. Jesus didn’t just rise to be admired, He rose to be embraced. The resurrection is not just an event to celebrate; it is a life to be lived. This full life includes victory, transformation, purpose, and eternal hope.
Let us not stop at the resurrection story, but step into resurrection reality. Live like Christ is alive—because He is. And if He is alive, then your life must reflect His glory, His mission, and His power every day.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for the victory You gave through the empty tomb.
2. Help me to walk in the newness of life daily.
3. Fill me with the abundant life You promised.
4. Empower me to be a faithful witness of the resurrection.
5. Strengthen my hope in the promise of eternal life.
