The Question That Changes Everything

Introduction: The Big Question of Easter

• Every faith journey has questions: Is there a God? Does He care about me? Why is there suffering?

• But Easter poses the ultimate question: Did Jesus rise from the dead?

• If the resurrection is true, it changes everything—it transforms our understanding of life, death, and eternity.

1. The Resurrection Is True (Faith and Evidence)

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith. Without it, Christianity collapses. But with it, we have the ultimate assurance of God’s power and plan. So, how do we know the resurrection is true? Let’s examine the evidence.

a. The Empty Tomb

When the women arrived at the tomb, they found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty (Luke 24:2-3).

Even Jesus’ enemies couldn’t deny the empty tomb. Instead, they tried to cover it up, claiming the disciples had stolen the body (Matthew 28:12-13).

If the body of Jesus had been produced, Christianity would have ended on the spot. But no one could—because Jesus was alive.

b. Eyewitness Testimony

The risen Jesus appeared to many people after His resurrection:

Mary Magdalene in the garden (John 20:11-18).

The disciples in the upper room (John 20:19-29).

Two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35).

More than 500 people at one time (1 Corinthians 15:6).

These appearances weren’t hallucinations or dreams. They were physical encounters with the risen Christ.

Jesus invited Thomas to touch His wounds (John 20:27).

He ate with His disciples (Luke 24:42-43).

These eyewitnesses went on to boldly proclaim the resurrection, even at great personal cost. People don’t willingly die for something they know is a lie.

c. The Transformation of the Disciples

Before the resurrection, the disciples were fearful and defeated:

Peter denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:61-62).

After the crucifixion, they hid behind locked doors in fear of the authorities (John 20:19).

After encountering the risen Christ, they were completely transformed:

Peter preached boldly at Pentecost, leading thousands to faith (Acts 2:14-41).

The disciples travelled far and wide to proclaim the gospel, many facing martyrdom.

This radical change is only explainable by their certainty that Jesus had risen.

d. The Birth and Growth of the Church

The rapid spread of Christianity in the first century is remarkable.

How could a small group of ordinary people, with no political power or resources, change the world?

Their message of a risen Saviour struck at the heart of the Roman Empire and Jewish traditions.

This movement could only thrive because it was founded on the truth of the resurrection.

e. The Prophecies Fulfilled

Jesus’ resurrection was not a surprise—it was the fulfillment of God’s plan, foretold in Scripture:

“You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay” (Psalm 16:10).

Jesus Himself predicted His death and resurrection: “The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinners, be crucified, and on the third day be raised again” (Luke 24:7).

The resurrection confirms that God keeps His promises.

f. The Resurrection Changes Lives Today

Beyond the historical evidence, the resurrection continues to transform lives:

Millions of people testify to the hope, peace, and purpose they’ve found in the risen Christ.

When we encounter Jesus, like the disciples, we are never the same.

Closing This Point

The resurrection is not just a story; it’s a fact grounded in history. The empty tomb, eyewitness accounts, the disciples’ transformation, and the growth of the church all point to one conclusion: He is risen!

If the resurrection is true, then Jesus is who He said He was—the Son of God, the Saviour of the world.

This truth demands a response. Will you believe it, and will you let it change your life?

2. The Resurrection Is Personal (What It Means for Us)

The resurrection isn’t just a past event—it has profound meaning for us today:

o Freedom from sin: Jesus’ death paid the price, and His resurrection declares that the debt is fully cleared (Romans 4:25).

o Victory over death: Death is no longer the end. Through Christ, we have the promise of eternal life (John 11:25-26).

o Hope for today: The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to us through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:19-20).

3. The Resurrection Brings Hope (Faith in Action)

Because Jesus lives, we can face life’s hardest questions and challenges with hope:

o Hope in suffering: The resurrection promises that pain and loss are not the final word (Revelation 21:4).

o Hope for purpose: Our lives have eternal meaning because of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:15).

o Hope for transformation: God can make all things new in us (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Conclusion: What Will You Do With This Question?

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is more than a historical fact or a theological idea—it’s a question that demands a response.