Easter Message
March 31, 2024 | By Jim Burgen
Is Easter about more than just a miracle? Highlighting the resurrection of Jesus, the message emphasized that it's not just about Jesus' triumph over death, but a validation of all his teachings and promises. Through stories like the humorous dilemma of a man in Israel and the paralytic man's friends in Mark 2, it illustrated how we often overlook our spiritual needs, focusing on immediate problems. The crucifixion story, especially the conversation with the two other men on the crosses, shows that anyone, regardless of their past, can find hope and salvation in Jesus. This celebration of Easter urges a re-evaluation of life's challenges, prioritizing spiritual fulfillment and eternal promises.
SETLIST
"Death Was Arrested" Song by North Point Worship
"Praise" Song by Elevation Worship
Hymn Medley:
"Nothing But The Blood"
"The Wonderful Cross"
"Because He Lives"
"Jesus Paid It All"
"Because He Lives" Song by Bill & Gloria Gaither
"Save Me" Song by Jelly Roll
"From Now On" Written by Sydney Peterson, Ryan Peterson, and Nate Manning
"Prodigals" Available on "Our God Will See Us Through (Live)" from North Point from Centricity Music
"All Hail King Jesus" Available on "Homecoming (Live)" from Bethel Music
"Living Hope" Available on "Living Hope" from Phil Wickham
"I Speak Jesus" Song by Charity Gayle
"I Thank God" Available on "Move Your Heart" from Tribl Records
GROUP QUESTIONS
Happy Easter!
Jim Burgen
March 30th, 2024
// Bible References
Mark 2:1-5,6-12; Luke 23:32-39
// Community Question: Share a favorite Easter memory.
// Discussion Questions
- The sermon emphasizes the importance of Easter in fulfilling Jesus' promises. The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate proof that He can forgive sins and provide salvation. Why is the resurrection of Jesus so important in validating His teachings and promises? How does the resurrection of Jesus impact your understanding of forgiveness and salvation in your own faith?
- The sermon explores different responses when people hear about Jesus' promise of salvation.
a) File it away as not urgent b) Doubt its applicability to them c) Hope that Jesus can save them from their mess. Why do you think people generally respond in one of those three ways? How do you personally respond to Jesus' promise, and what factors influence your response? - Read Mark 2:1-12. This story illustrates how easily people focus on their immediate, physical problems rather than recognizing their need for spiritual healing of their broken inner lives. Can you identify any broken areas of your life that have resulted in physical problems? Are their areas in your life where you may be focusing on physical problems instead of seeking spiritual healing?
- Jim clarifies that baptism acts as a confession that without Jesus, one is condemned, but through Him, salvation is possible. In what ways is baptism a public demonstration of our faith and why is it important? If you've been baptized, how did that experience impact your faith journey? If you haven't been baptized, do you have any questions or concerns about it?
- Read Luke 23:32-39. The sermon highlights the paralyzed man and the repentant thief as examples of how Jesus extends His grace to those who acknowledge their need for Him. How can the examples of the repentant thief and the paralyzed man help us understand grace and mercy? In what ways have you experienced or hope to experience Jesus' grace in your own life, and how can you share that with others?
// Challenge: Who in our life needs to hear “Because Jesus Lives”, there is hope for eternity and difficult life situations? Can we commit to sharing that hope with them this week?
