Bible Text: Matthew 28 | Preacher: Rev. Dr. Lou Saldiveri | Series: Sunday Morning Worship

— Pastor Lou’s Notes —
Intro: Traditionally on Easter morning, the church proclaims, “He is risen!” and the congregation responds, “He is risen indeed!”. I would like to ask some crucial questions this morning. Does the resurrection of Jesus Christ make a difference in our lives? How does the resurrection influence our worldview and outlook on life today? What does he resurrection tell us about God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit?

There are several principles in this passage that should encourage us and give us hope this Easter morning. So, let me ask another question this morning. How many of us need some encouragement and hope today?

1. We Can Trust God Because Jesus Was Raised From the Dead v. 1-5
1. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the tomb in grief and hopelessness, but they made a great discovery!
1. Jesus was not in the tomb, but was alive
2. God’s plan was and is right on schedule
3. God provided an angel to comfort the women
1. The angel said, “Do not be afraid!”
1. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit keeps the promises and their plan
1. The angel said, “He has risen, just as He said.”
2. The angel gave an invitation, “Come and see…”.
1. This same invitation stands today.

4. Application: We can face life walking by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit, under the authority without fear paralyzing us! Why? Because God can be trusted. From the beginning of the creation of the world, God has promised He would send a Savior to sinful mankind to make it possible for forgiveness of sin and new life and new purpose as we lovingly obey God. His plan is right on schedule! This means even when it appears that evil is winning and the sky is falling, we can continue in faith because God keeps His promises and His plan is right on schedule!

2. We Can Be Encouraged and Have Hope Because Jesus Was Raised From the Dead v. 8-9
1. The presence of Jesus brings encouragement and hope, if we let Him
1. In order to know the encouragement and hope He brings, we need to spend time with Him
1. Spend time in prayer, in the Word, in worship, and just experiencing His presence
2. When we spent time with Jesus, His holiness, righteousness, love, and grace will overwhelm us even in the worst of circumstances

2. He said to the women, “Do not be afraid”.
1. We need to know we can face life’s challenges because Jesus is alive!
2. His promise to us is that He will never leave us or forsake us

3. He said to the women, “Go and tell..”
1. We need to tell others that Jesus is alive!
2. We need to tell others that in Christ, there is always hope

3. We Can be Encouraged and Have Hope Because God’s Plan Will Be Completed.
1. He is coming again!
2. He will make all things right
3. He will physically rule as King of kings and Lord of lords!
4. Read Revelation 1:9-20

Conclusion: Will we trust the Risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the good times and bad times. Are we willing to acknowledge that God is in control even when things seem so chaotic? Are we willing, with the power of the Holy Spirit, to be obedient to the Word of God no matter what the circumstances?