Sunday Sermon 2025-04-20

Sunday, 20th April 2025

Rev Daniel Xi An Poon

I Am the Resurrection and the Life

John 11:25–26

Today is Easter Sunday. We begin by reading Jesus’ words from John 11:25–26. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Jesus spoke these words to a woman who had just lost her brother. She was heartbroken and full of questions. Yet Jesus didn’t only comfort her—He gave her a powerful truth. Resurrection is not only a future hope; it is a living power we can experience today. Jesus did not say, “I can raise the dead.” He said, “I am the resurrection,” showing that He Himself is life.

To help us understand this, I want to share a true story. During the 1988 Armenia earthquake, a father named Samuel dropped his son Armand off at school and promised, “No matter what happens, I will come for you.” Later that day, a massive earthquake struck, and the school collapsed. Many believed no one could survive, but Samuel didn’t give up. He dug through the ruins for 12 hours, then 24 hours, then 36 hours. Finally, after 38 hours, he heard a faint voice—it was his son! Armand was alive. When the boy was rescued, he said, “Daddy, I knew you would come.” This story mirrors what Jesus did for us. His resurrection is God’s promise fulfilled. Jesus went through death to seek and save us.

Most people think death is simply when someone stops breathing. But the Bible teaches that true death is separation from God. Spiritual death is living with emptiness, fear, and a sense of being lost. Jesus came to rescue us from this kind of death and bring us back into the embrace of our Heavenly Father. Through Him, we find true life, not just physical existence, but a deep, eternal connection with God.

Jesus’ resurrection broke the silence of death. He was not just a good teacher who died—He truly rose again. When He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life,” He was announcing something real that changed everything. Death no longer has the final word. Jesus conquered fear, sadness, and hopelessness. He brings life and hope to our hearts. When Jesus asked Martha, “Do you believe this?” He was not only speaking to her, but to us today. He stands before us, calling our name, asking if we will believe and receive His life.

Maybe this is your first time in church. Maybe you’re unsure about Jesus. That’s okay—He knows you, and today, He is seeking you. You might feel like the child trapped under broken rubble, silently wondering if anyone will come. Jesus has already come for you. He doesn’t require you to be perfect. He only asks you to open your heart and say, “Jesus, I want to know You.” If something inside you is whispering, “Lord, I’m here. I want to know You,” then I invite you to respond. We are here to walk with you and pray for you.

Jesus is not only the one who brings the dead back to life; He is the one who gives true life to those who are living. If today you hear Jesus calling your name—not loudly, but gently in your heart—do not be afraid. He is not demanding immediate change. He is simply inviting you to let Him walk with you. Jesus knows your past, your pain, and even the questions you are afraid to ask. Yet He is full of love and patience, and He invites you just as you are. Because He is alive, and He came for you. Even if all you can say today is, “Jesus, I’m not ready… but I want to know You,” that is enough. He hears you, and He is already beside you. Resurrection is not just a miracle that happened long ago. It is the quiet beginning of something new in your heart today. Let’s open our hearts and let Jesus lead us, step by step.

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