Christ Church Katy Sermons

Jesus is readying the disciples for Pentecost and the explosion of the gospel. Not even Thomas’ doubts can stop the Kingdom of God

John shows us a despondent Mary Magdalene still at Jesus’ tomb. She is so distraught that even the sight of angels cannot break through the fog surrounding her. But with a word – calling her name, “Mary” – Jesus shows His great love for her.

Jesus defeated death by rising from the grave and lives forever. His risen life has an explicit purpose, to call His people to Himself and to send them out into the world with a message of forgiveness and salvation.

In the Savior’s work of redemption, we often rightly focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection. But it is also important for us to understand the account of His burial as well.

The unimaginable is placed before our eyes. He who is life itself breathes out His last and dies upon a cross. The death of the Lord Jesus Christ is more than an injustice, more than a tragedy.

The darkest day has arrived. After all the unjust accusations, mockery, and abuse, Jesus begins the walk to Calvary, Golgotha, the Place of the Skull. The very purpose for which Christ came, the profound sacrifice of His life for our sins, is about to be fulfilled.

The spotless lamb of God stands before Pilate, who can find no guilt in Him – not once, not twice, but three times! Yet the Jews, spurred on by the chief priests and officers, declare that they do not want Pilate to free Jesus.

Where the Jews tried to trick Jesus into committing blasphemy, Pilate is focused on worldly power. This is a clear opportunity for Jesus to declare to Pilate and to teach us that “My Kingdom is Not of This World”

Events begin to move quickly after Jesus's arrest. The soldiers swiftly take Him to the Jewish authorities, and the illegal trial commences.