Passage
Matthew 28:1-15 (ESV)
God Accepts Those Who Fear Him
Acts 10:17-35
Key Verse: 10:34
Jesus Rose from the Dead
Date: Dec. 29, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 28:6a
First, "He has risen!" (1-10). Mary Magdalene and another Mary went to the tomb at dawn on Sunday to anoint Jesus' dead body. There was an earthquake and a radiant angel which scared the guards to death. The angel said, "Jesus, who was crucified...is not here. He has risen from the dead, and is going ahead of you into Galilee." They left in fear and joy to tell the disciples. Suddenly Risen Jesus greeted them and told them again to go and tell the others to meet him in Galilee. Jesus lives! He rose again just as he said he would. Scripture, Jesus' own words and eyewitnesses all confirm that Jesus rose from the dead.
Second, an attempted cover up (11-15). The Roman guards reported the resurrection facts to the Jewish leaders. It was a chance for them all to repent and believe in Jesus. But they gave the soldiers much money to spread a lie saying the disciples stole Jesus' body. Sometimes people choose to believe a lie rather than the truth. But whoever believes that Risen Jesus is Lord will be saved (Ro 10:9).
Prayer: Jesus, I believe you are Lord and that you rose again from the dead. Reveal this truth to more and more people, even through my life and words.
One Word: Jesus rose again, just as he said
