Bible Study: He Is Risen — Our Living Hope
Scripture Focus
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Matthew 28:1–15
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Luke 24:35–49
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1 Corinthians 15:12–17
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2 Corinthians 4:14
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John 11:25, John 14:3, Romans 8:11
Big Idea
The resurrection of Jesus isn’t just a moment in history—it’s the foundation of our faith and the anchor of our hope. Because Jesus lives, we have the assurance of forgiveness, the promise of eternal life, and the strength to live with purpose today.
Three Truths About the Resurrection
1. Without the Resurrection, There’s No Christianity
Read: 1 Corinthians 15:12–17
Paul puts it plainly: if Christ hasn’t been raised from the dead, then our faith is useless. The cross alone isn’t enough—it’s the resurrection that proves Jesus was who He said He was: the Son of God.
Jesus didn’t stay in the tomb. He rose in victory over sin and death, proving that He is the only way to salvation. Every other religious figure is still in their grave—but Jesus is alive.
Reflection Questions:
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Why does Paul say our faith is “useless” without the resurrection?
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How would Christianity be different if Jesus hadn’t risen?
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In what ways does the resurrection give credibility to Jesus’ teachings?
2. The Resurrection Proves There’s Life After Death
Read: Luke 24:36–43; 2 Corinthians 4:14
The Gospels record that Jesus appeared to many people after His resurrection. He walked with two men on the road to Emmaus. He stood among His disciples. He invited Thomas to touch His wounds. He even ate fish in front of them.
These weren’t hallucinations or ghost stories—Jesus physically rose. His body was glorified, but real. These appearances gave the disciples such boldness that they spent the rest of their lives sharing the gospel—even when it cost them their lives.
Reflection Questions:
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Why is it important that Jesus’ resurrection was physical, not just spiritual?
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What does Jesus’ risen body teach us about our future in eternity?
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How does the resurrection affect your view of death?
3. The Resurrection Gives Us Real Hope
Read: Romans 8:11; John 14:3; John 11:25
Hope isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s the confident expectation that God will do what He has promised. Jesus promised to prepare a place for us and come back for us. That’s not metaphor. That’s eternity.
Because Jesus lives, we can face uncertainty with peace, suffering with courage, and sorrow with joy. The resurrection means sin is paid for, death is defeated, and heaven is waiting.
Reflection Questions:
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What does hope mean to you in everyday life?
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How can the truth of the resurrection help you through tough seasons?
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What specific promises of Jesus give you the most comfort?
Memory Verse
“I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.”
— John 11:25 (NLT)
Bonus Teaching Insight
Pastor Bryce reminded us: "Without the resurrection, our faith is in a dead man. But because Jesus lives, we serve a Savior who conquered death—and that changes everything."
Throughout the Bible, the resurrection is presented not just as a miracle, but as the guarantee of our future. It is God’s “Amen” to Jesus’ “It is finished.”
Billy Graham once said, “Without the resurrection, the cross is meaningless.” The cross paid the price—but the resurrection proved the payment was accepted.
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for conquering the grave and giving us eternal hope. Thank You that because You live, we can face today—and tomorrow—with peace. Help me walk daily in the power of the resurrection. Fill my heart with joy, my mind with truth, and my life with purpose. Let me be a witness to the world that You are alive. In Your name, Amen.
Group Discussion Starter
What would you say to someone who doubts the resurrection really happened?
Share personal thoughts, scriptures, or stories that have encouraged your faith.
Optional Next Step
If you haven’t placed your faith in Jesus, today can be your Resurrection Day. You can pray, confess your need for forgiveness, and receive the life He offers. If you’ve done that—praise God! If not, would you consider it today?