Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Matthew 28:1-9

A. Three Truths Emerging from the Gospel Accounts

1. Christ’s resurrection authenticates God’s Word: Matthew 28:1-6; Luke 24:1-8; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

2. Christ’s resurrection prompts obedience to God’s Word: Matthew 28:7-8; John 20:15-18; Luke 6:46

3. Christ’s resurrection validated by the witness of others: Acts 1:1-3; Acts 10:34-43; 1 Corinthians 15:5-8; Acts 1:21-22; Acts 2:29-31; Acts 4:1-2, 33; Acts 17:18; Romans 6:1-4

B. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ: Its Implications

1. The Believer in Jesus Christ Relationship

– Justification by God: Romans 4:22-25; Romans 10:8-10

– Eternity with God: 1 Peter 1:3-5

2. The Unbeliever in Jesus Christ: Acts 17:30-31

a. The certainty of Judgment – a fixed day: Hebrews 9:27

b. The standard of judgment – righteousness

c. The identity of the Judge – a man raised from the dead: Acts 10:42

d. The what of Judgment – deeds (rejection of Christ): Revelation 20:11-13

e. The outcome of Judgment: Revelation 20:14-15