April 17, 2022
Passage:  Matthew 27:57-28:20
Speaker:  Josh Holland
Main Point:  Experiencing Jesus’ everlasting life changes my perspective, my motivations, my goals and my future.

I. Christ died so I can know the freedom of the cross. (v.57-66)
            A. Joseph was willing to lose everything because he loved Jesus.
            B. The greatest devotion to Jesus was quiet, humble service.
            C. Am I willing to follow Jesus to the cross?

See also: Romans 6:4; Galatians 2:20; Mark 15:43; Luke 23:50-51; John 19:38; Isaiah 53:1-8,9; Psalm 22.

II. Christ rose so I can experience the joy of life. (v.1-10)
            A. The world is ready for Jesus.
            B. The Gospel speaks comfort to those who are looking for it.
            C. Am I working for Jesus and letting Him work in me?

III. Christ reigns so I can boldly proclaim live-giving words. (11-20)
            A. Miracles will not convince anyone of the Good News.
            B. Messengers motivated by material gain will give up.
            C. Am I resting in the power and presence of Jesus.

Discussion Questions:

1.  Compare and contrast Joseph and the Jewish leaders in Matt. 27:57-66.  What did each stand to lose by their actions?  What motivated each?
2.  What do we learn about Joseph in Mark 15:43, Luke 23:50-51, and John 19:38.  Do his actions in Matthew 27 indicate any change in the kind of disciple he was?  If so, why?
3.  Why does Matthew focus on the guards, when the other Gospels don’t include them?  What might be his point?
4.  What is the main command in the Great Commission and what are the three parts that tell me now to do it?
5.  How can I keep the joy of Christ’s resurrection alive day to day?  What threatens to distract me from it?
6.  Why is the lie about the soldiers falling asleep while the disciples stole the body illogical?
7.  Do you think the priests and elders believed Jesus really rose from the dead?  Why did they reject the report of the soldiers and cover it up?
8.  How are you doing in carrying out the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20)?  What are three things you can do to improve?
9.  How is our church doing in carrying out the Great Commission?  What can we do to improve?
10. What is the difference between the Great Commission and the Great Commandment?  Discuss how they are related.