Death and Life After

The Easter StoryJohn 20 (p.828)

• They were not expecting the resurrection.• Resurrection – the foundation of our faith.• The resurrection is a historical fact.• Jesus offers forgiveness.• Jesus answers questions and doubts.• Real life is in Jesus.

Overcoming Death• Only possible in Jesus!• More than courage in the face of uncertainty• More than optimism (“I am a good person.”)

• Confidence and Peace Do you want MY life?

Real Life in Jesus• Luke 9:21-25 (p.790)

• Die with Jesus, live with Jesus.• In Jesus our lives are lived with

confidence and joy.

Real Life in JesusThink about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. Colossians 3:2-4

Real Life in Jesus• We can face life, death, and life after

with peace.–And work for justice now.

• In Jesus, we can have assurance.

Real Life in JesusWhile we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life. God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee (deposit) he has given us his Holy Spirit. 2 Corinthians 5:4-5

Real Life in Jesus• Is Jesus the only way?–Only Jesus has defeated death!