His Resurrection Cancelled all Condemnation
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | November 8 2024 | John 20:1-4
KEY VERSE:
So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. John 20:4 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate declaration that all condemnation has been cancelled. As Mary Magdalene approached the tomb early that morning, she expected to find the stone sealing Jesus' body, a symbol of finality and death. Instead, she discovered the stone rolled away, signalling that Jesus had risen. This empty tomb is a powerful testament that Jesus conquered sin and death, breaking the chains of condemnation that once bound humanity. His resurrection is a vivid reminder that we are no longer condemned but are given new life and hope through Him.
As Mary hurried to inform Peter and the other disciple, their immediate response to run towards the tomb signifies the urgency with which we should embrace this truth. The stone rolled away is not just a physical removal but a spiritual one, illustrating that the barriers of sin and guilt have been lifted through Christ’s sacrifice. The disciples' race to the tomb mirrors our journey of faith, where we must swiftly move towards the realisation of what Jesus has accomplished for us. Their eagerness to witness the empty tomb reflects the eagerness we should have to accept the freedom and grace Jesus offers us, understanding that His resurrection cancels all condemnation.
Could it be that although Peter started running first, the other disciple outran him because Peter was weighed down by guilt and condemnation? Having denied Jesus three times before His death, perhaps Peter dreaded the thought of facing Jesus if He were at the tomb. Mark 16:7 supports this idea when the angel told the women, “Go tell His disciples and Peter that He is going before you into Galilee.” Peter, therefore, ran with a heavy heart, burdened by guilty thoughts.
But the scene at the empty tomb reassures us that we are a new creation in Christ, free from the condemnation that once overshadowed our lives. His resurrection is our victory, affirming that no accusation or guilt can stand against us because Jesus has paid the ultimate price. Let us live in the freedom that His resurrection brings, confidently approaching each day with the knowledge that we are forgiven and redeemed.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Embrace this truth wholeheartedly, knowing that through Jesus’ resurrection, all condemnation has been cancelled, and ACCEPT the INVITATION to live in the fullness of His grace and love.
PRAYER:
Thank you, Jesus, that I am free from all guilt and condemnation. Please help me to live in that knowledge and consciousness to give my all in serving the course of your kingdom. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: TOMB The Greek word for “tomb” is mnēmeion (μνημεῖον), meaning “a memorial” or “a place of remembrance.” It often refers to a burial site, carrying connotations of finality and death.
“Tomb” signifies the place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion, a site anticipated to hold only sorrow and loss. However, the empty tomb symbolizes Christ’s triumph over death, transforming a place associated with endings into a testament to new beginnings. The “tomb” also represents the turning point of human history, shifting from despair to hope through Christ’s resurrection. This encourages a renewed outlook on our own lives, recognizing that, in Christ, endings can lead to transformations.
Reflections: Are there areas in your life where you view change as impossible? Let this symbol of Christ’s victory inspire you to trust in God’s power to transform the seemingly unchangeable and to open doors where none appear.
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