Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 20:1-10), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• [1-2] Each of the Gospels (Mt 28:1; Mk 16:1; Lk 24:1) record women as the first people at the empty tomb. How is this significant? What biblical themes might be indicated by it?

• Each of the Gospels (Mt 28:1; Mk 16:1-2; Lk 24:1) record that the Resurrection happened on the first day of the week (Sunday). Ever since then the church has gathered for worship on the first day of the week, the Lord’s day (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor 16:2; Rev 1:10). What are some of the implications of this change as associated with the Resurrection and the New Creation?

• [8-10] John believed the Resurrection was true before he understood it in light of the Scriptures (indeed, before he even saw the risen Jesus). How can faith-before-understanding be embarrassing? How—biblically speaking—can it be good?

• Why is the Resurrection of Jesus Christ perceived by sinners as a threat? Why would people resist believing it? How might you have resisted believing it and allowing it to inform every aspect of your life with God and others?

• What arguments are used by those who deny the Resurrection to continue in their resistance? Can you think of examples from the Gospels (or the rest of the New Testament)? Examples from your own conversations? How can you engage with people who bring such arguments?