About This Sermon
Jarrett Stephens teaches from John 20:1–18 on Easter Sunday, showing that Jesus is hope for our past, present, and future. Mary Magdalene, a woman once tormented by seven demons, became the first eyewitness to the resurrection. Her past did not disqualify her from encountering God's grace.
When Jesus called Mary by name in her native Aramaic, her grief turned to joy in a moment. The Good Shepherd knows his sheep personally. Because Jesus physically rose from the dead, he secures eternal life for all who trust him. Hope is not wishful thinking or an idea. It is a person, and his name is Jesus.
Scripture: John 20:1-18; Luke 8:1-2; John 19:25; Matthew 27:57-61; John 10:3; John 10:14; John 10:27; 1 Corinthians 15
Study Guide
A few ideas to carry with you, discuss with your group, or revisit during the week.
Practical Takeaways (5)
- Jesus is hope from our past, no matter what shame or failure we carry.
- The resurrection is a historical fact supported by eyewitness accounts.
- When Jesus calls his sheep by name, he turns grief into joy.
- The physical resurrection of Jesus secures our future with God forever.
- Hope is not an idea. It is a person, and his name is Jesus.
Discussion Questions (5)
- What does Mary Magdalene's story in John 20 teach us about who Jesus chooses to use?
- What from your past sometimes makes it hard to believe God could use you?
- How does Jesus calling Mary by name change the way you think about his relationship with you?
- Why does the physical resurrection matter for our hope about the future?
- What would it look like for you to respond to Jesus calling your name this week?
