Devotional Thought

Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!

-Luke 24:5-6 (NIV)

The Easter story is the centerpiece of our faith—not simply because of the miracle of resurrection, but because of what it reveals about the heart of God. Jesus’ triumph over death isn't just a historical event; it's a divine declaration that God's promises are true, His love is unwavering, and His power is unmatched. He is undisputed—the undefeated, unchallenged, and victorious Savior.

The empty tomb is not a mystery to solve but an invitation to believe. The resurrection verifies Jesus' identity, affirms His teachings, and offers us a future anchored in hope. Through His death, Jesus paid the debt we could never repay. Through His resurrection, He opened the way for us to be called children of God. This is the gospel: Behold the hand. Behold the nail.

So what is our next move? To truly believe means to respond. Not just intellectually, but with our lives. Faith in the risen Christ calls us into a new rhythm of living—one marked by gratitude, transformation, and action. He is risen. Now we rise with Him.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to you that the Easter story was foretold even in the name of God (YHWH – “Behold the hand. Behold the nail”)? How does this deepen your understanding of God's intentionality and love?

2. In Luke 24, the women go to the tomb expecting to find a dead body. Have you ever approached God with limited expectations? How might the resurrection challenge you to expand your view of who He is and what He can do?

3. Peter struggled to believe even when faced with the empty tomb. What doubts or questions do you wrestle with about your faith?

3. If you believe Jesus truly rose from the dead, what difference should that make in your everyday life—your relationships, priorities, and purpose?

4. What do you sense God might be inviting you into as a “next move”? Is it a step of obedience, surrender, faith, or service? How can the group support you in taking it?

5. The sermon emphasized that true belief leads to action (faith as pistis). In what areas of your life does your faith need to become more embodied or visible?