Summary

The resurrection isn’t just about Jesus being alive. And the ascension isn’t about Jesus being absent. The resurrection declares death is defeated. The ascension declares Jesus is reigning. Which means Christianity is not built on a memory—it’s built on a living King. Today, we’re not asking, “Do you believe in the resurrection?” We’re asking, “What kind of life makes sense if Jesus really walked out of the grave… and now sits on the throne?”

Sermon Questions

1. In Luke 24:1–12, what details show that the resurrection is presented as a historical, physical event rather than a symbolic idea?  Why is it important that Jesus rose bodily, not just spiritually? What would be lost if the resurrection were only symbolic?
2. Why was it important that Jesus did not simply disappear, but visibly ascended into heaven?  What difference does it make that Jesus ascended as both Savior and reigning King?
3. What difference should the empty tomb make in how we face suffering today? How does believing “He rose again” shape our worship and daily obedience?
4. How does knowing that Jesus is presently reigning change how you view current world events? What does it mean practically to live under the authority of a reigning Christ?
5. Why is it essential that the Creed holds resurrection and ascension together? How does this doctrine move Christianity from mere inspiration to living hope?