Believe it Or Not!

GETTING STARTED

When asked, “Who is Jesus?” the girl replied, “Do I believe that he rose from the dead? NO!”

The idea of Christ’s resurrection from the dead incites pretty polar responses from people. Some emphatically say, “That’s impossible!” “Ridiculous!” “No Way!” And others, despite knowing how impossible it is, believe unequivocally that it actually happened.

  • What do you believe about Christ being raised from the dead? More importantly, how does that belief impact the way you live, the fears you’re prone to, the pain you feel, and the suffering you endure?

READ THE WORD: ACTS 17:32-34 (ESV)

32 Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, “We will hear you again about this.” 33 So Paul went out from their midst. 34 But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them.

English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

DIGGING DEEPER

  1. What was the point of controversy in Paul’s teaching?
  2. What were the three responses to the controversy?
  3. What did Paul do? Which prominent people joined him?
  4. How would you live differently today if you truly believed that you will be resurrected one day?

RESPOND TO GOD

The resurrection from the dead. The Sadducees and the Pharisees couldn’t agree on it. Paul said it was the crux of the matter. Jesus hoped all would see it. Many are waiting anxiously for it. Some are convinced it’s utter nonsense. It really all hinges on this one notion. The resurrection from the dead is a game changer. No other statement from the creator of our existence could have been more powerful to a broken people like us! This single act says emphatically that God has gone, and that he will go, to any length to conquer any death to win our hearts.

  • Thank God that he resurrected Jesus from the dead and that he promises to do the same for you.
  • Ask God to help you live today in a fuller understanding of what resurrection means for you.