*Big Idea: Sinful spiritual blindness is a condition remedied only by God through an encounter with the crucified and risen Christ.

I. These two disciples had facts, but lacked spiritual understanding of those facts (vv. 13-24).

II. Jesus revealed himself in word and deed (vv. 25-30).

III. These two disciples, having been given spiritual sight, returned to their companions, testifying about Jesus with joy and hope (vv. 31-35).

1. After The Resurrection (19-20)

2. Thomas’ Skepticism (24-25)

3. Undeniable Evidence (26-27)

4. A Profound Declaration (28)

5. The Blessing of Faith (29)

*Big Idea: The Lord Jesus rose from the dead as he promised, but the news was initially met with surprise and skepticism.

I. Jesus WAS dead and buried (23:50—24:12).

II. The women were surprised by the empty tomb (vv. 1-4a).

III. The angels announced Jesus’ bodily resurrection with a question, a statement, and a reminder (vv. 4b-8).

IV. The apostles responded with skepticism, but also curious hope (vv. 9-12).

V. This is good news that demands a response.

Ephesians 1:7

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.

*Big Idea: Amid supernatural signs and varied reactions, Jesus died, committing himself to his Father.

I. Jesus’ death was preceded by darkness covering the land as a sign of judgment and mourning (vv. 44-45a).

II. As Jesus died, the barrier to God was removed (v. 45b).

III. As he died, Jesus entrusted himself to his Father, as he had done in his life (v. 46).

IV. Jesus’ death prompted various reactions from onlookers (vv. 47-56).

Big Idea: On the cross, Jesus demonstrated God’s mercy and grace to those who don’t deserve it.

I. In response to lament, Jesus gives corrective warning (vv. 26-31).

II. In response to humiliation, Jesus prays forgiveness for his executioners (vv. 32-38).

III. In response to faith, Jesus grants salvation (vv. 39-43).

*Big Idea: Rebels against God can be released from condemnation by Jesus’ substitutionary death.

I. Rebellion against God is universal.

A. Pilate abandoned righteousness for expediency.

B. The Jewish leaders used their influence for evil.

C. The crowd chose a violent criminal over a peaceful Savior.

II. Like Barabbas, we can have Jesus as our substitute and be released.

*Big Idea: The prosecution of Jesus was a case of the innocent tried by the guilty.

I. Jesus: submissive and serene (vv. 1-12).

II. The Sanhedrin: disdainful, determined, and deceitful (vv. 1-5, 10).

III. Pilate: insightful yet indifferent (vv. 3-7, 12).

IV. Herod: curious but not serious (vv. 8-12).

Big Idea: Regardless the actions of his disciples or his enemies, Jesus is the glorious Son of God, to whom all will answer.

I. Peter showed some courage, but denied Jesus, as Jesus prophesied (vv. 54-62).

II. The soldiers debased Jesus (vv. 63-65).

III. The leaders disbelieved Jesus, even as he declared his identity (vv. 66-71).

In the crisis of Gethsemane, Jesus remained faithful to God and his mission, while the disciples failed.

I. At the hour of temptation, Jesus prayed in submission to the Father’s will (vv. 39-46).

II. At the hour of darkness, Jesus spoke truth and showed love (vv. 47-53).