The Power of the Empty Tomb: Why the Resurrection Still Matters Every Day
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a moment we celebrate once a year—it’s a truth that transforms how we live every day. The empty tomb is more than historical evidence or a theological concept; it’s the foundation for a life marked by hope, purpose, and power.
In John 20, we encounter a series of personal responses to the resurrection. Each moment reveals not only the reality of the risen Christ but also how He continues to meet us in our fear, our doubt, and our longing.
In John 20, we encounter a series of personal responses to the resurrection. Each moment reveals not only the reality of the risen Christ but also how He continues to meet us in our fear, our doubt, and our longing.
From Fear to Faith
When Mary Magdalene arrived at the tomb, the stone had been rolled away. What she expected to find—death—was nowhere to be seen. Confused and heartbroken, she didn’t recognize Jesus standing right in front of her until He called her by name. In that moment, everything changed. Jesus didn’t just rise from the dead—He reached into her grief and restored her hope.
He still does the same for us. Jesus calls us personally. He meets us in our pain and confusion. When we hear His voice—through Scripture, prayer, or the prompting of the Holy Spirit—it awakens our faith.
He still does the same for us. Jesus calls us personally. He meets us in our pain and confusion. When we hear His voice—through Scripture, prayer, or the prompting of the Holy Spirit—it awakens our faith.
From Doubt to Belief
Thomas wasn’t in the room when Jesus first appeared to the disciples. He wanted proof—physical evidence of the crucifixion scars. And Jesus gave it. But He also gave a blessing: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (John 20:29).
Many of us wrestle with doubts. But God is not intimidated by our questions. Instead, He invites us to consider the evidence, engage with His Word, and experience Him personally. Faith may begin small—as tiny as a mustard seed—but it can grow into deep conviction as we encounter the risen Savior.
Many of us wrestle with doubts. But God is not intimidated by our questions. Instead, He invites us to consider the evidence, engage with His Word, and experience Him personally. Faith may begin small—as tiny as a mustard seed—but it can grow into deep conviction as we encounter the risen Savior.
From Hiding to Boldness
Before the resurrection, the disciples were hiding behind locked doors, gripped by fear. But when Jesus appeared, He breathed the Holy Spirit upon them and sent them out on mission. The same men who once fled in fear would soon become bold witnesses, risking everything to proclaim the good news.
That same Spirit lives in every believer today. The power that raised Jesus from the grave empowers us to live with courage, purpose, and joy. You were not meant to stay stuck in fear or apathy—you were made to live in the power of the resurrection.
That same Spirit lives in every believer today. The power that raised Jesus from the grave empowers us to live with courage, purpose, and joy. You were not meant to stay stuck in fear or apathy—you were made to live in the power of the resurrection.
From Religion to Relationship
The resurrection wasn’t just an event to observe; it was an invitation into personal relationship. Jesus met Mary in her sorrow. He stood among the disciples in their fear. He welcomed Thomas in his doubts. And He continues to reveal Himself to those who seek Him.
Jesus doesn’t just offer forgiveness—He offers Himself. He calls you by name. He wants to walk with you, not just on Easter Sunday, but every day of your life.
Jesus doesn’t just offer forgiveness—He offers Himself. He calls you by name. He wants to walk with you, not just on Easter Sunday, but every day of your life.
Why the Resurrection Still Matters
This chapter ends with a powerful reminder: “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:31).
Belief isn’t a passive mental agreement—it’s a living, breathing trust that leads to transformation. Life in His name means freedom from sin, peace that surpasses understanding, and a purpose greater than anything this world can offer.
Whether you’ve followed Jesus for decades or are just beginning to explore who He is, the empty tomb speaks to all of us. It declares that death is not the end, that hope is alive, and that life with Jesus is available to all who believe.
So, beyond Easter, the question remains: Do you yet believe? Are you ready to step into the new life only Jesus can offer?
Because the tomb is still empty. And that changes everything.
Belief isn’t a passive mental agreement—it’s a living, breathing trust that leads to transformation. Life in His name means freedom from sin, peace that surpasses understanding, and a purpose greater than anything this world can offer.
Whether you’ve followed Jesus for decades or are just beginning to explore who He is, the empty tomb speaks to all of us. It declares that death is not the end, that hope is alive, and that life with Jesus is available to all who believe.
So, beyond Easter, the question remains: Do you yet believe? Are you ready to step into the new life only Jesus can offer?
Because the tomb is still empty. And that changes everything.
This blog is based on a message preached by Lead Pastor Dr. Brian Stone as part of the His Hour series on Sunday, April 20. You can watch the full message here.
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