Death Is Not The End

We rejoiced in the resurrection. Through Jesus, death was defeated. Those who wonder if there is life after death can look to the resurrection. The Apostle Paul makes it clear that because of Jesus’ resurrection, we know that those who die in Christ will also be raised from the dead. Death is not the end. Death is the beginning—a portal into a new reality. We know this because of the resurrection of Jesus.

The disciples rejoiced in the resurrection of Jesus because it restored hope. But there was still a question that needed to be answered. The question was, "Now what?" Where do we go from here? In answer to that question, we will look at the resurrection appearances of Jesus to his followers.

The first resurrection appearance was for the purpose of reminding the disciples of what he had told them before his death. We looked at Luke 24:36–47 this past Sunday.

This week, Pastor Isaiah will take us to Luke 24:13–35. On April 30, we will look at the story of Thomas. The story is found in John 20:24–29.

"Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

On May 7th, we will look at the redemption of the Apostle Peter. You can read the story in John 21:1–25. On May 14, Scott Ball will be sharing. He will be sharing about his work on Manitoulin Island.

May 21st is Ascension Sunday. The Scripture reading will be Acts 1: 6–14. The following Sunday is the Day of Pentecost. The scripture reading is Acts 2:1–21.

"When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them."

Over the next several weeks, we will discover answers to the question "Now What?" and its implications for each of us.

I look forward to journeying with you over the next several weeks and invite you to read the scriptures listed above to hear what God’s Spirit is saying to you.

Prayer: Father, we thank you for the hope that is ours because of the resurrection of your Son. As we rejoice in the defeat of death we seek to be intune with you and hear your voice to guide us and give us hope during difficult times.

Blessings,