Introduction

Today, I want to share with you the three promises of Easter. These promises are marked by three significant elements: the empty cross, the empty tomb, and the empty burial clothes. Each of these emptinesses holds a powerful promise from God. Let's explore these promises together.

Promise 1: The Empty Cross - Forgiveness of Sins

The first promise of Easter is found in the empty cross. When we look at the cross, we see the assurance of forgiven sins. Jesus willingly gave His life on that cross to pay the penalty for our sins. The Bible tells us that "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8, NIV). Through His sacrifice, Jesus offers us forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Promise 2: The Empty Tomb - Eternal Life

The second promise of Easter is revealed in the empty tomb. Jesus conquered death and rose from the grave, proving His power over sin and offering us the promise of eternal life. As the angel proclaimed to the women at the tomb, "He is not here; he has risen!" (Matthew 28:6, NIV). Because Jesus lives, we can have hope beyond this earthly life. Death no longer holds its sting, and we can look forward to eternal life with Him.

Promise 3: The Empty Burial Clothes - Personal Relationship with Jesus

The third promise of Easter is found in the empty burial clothes. When Peter and John entered the tomb, they discovered the burial clothes neatly folded, indicating that Jesus had risen. This empty display signifies our opportunity for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He is not a distant figure but a living Savior who desires to fellowship with us. Jesus said, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me" (Revelation 3:20, NIV). Through faith in Him, we can experience a close and intimate relationship with our Savior.

Conclusion

The promises of Easter are not empty in the sense of being unfulfilled or false. On the contrary, they are promises filled with hope, love, and assurance. The empty cross assures us of forgiven sins, the empty tomb promises us eternal life, and the empty burial clothes invite us into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Just as the women at the tomb were initially unaware of the incredible promises awaiting them, many people today remain unaware of the life-changing promises of Easter. But today, you have heard these promises. Will you take God at His word? Will you accept His forgiveness, embrace the hope of eternal life, and enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?

Don't wait another day. Embrace these promises today and experience the joy and peace that come from knowing Jesus as your Lord and Savior. May God bless each one of you this Easter season.

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