We realize you may not be able to discuss b. Is there someone you haven’t seen in a while all the questions. Pick the ones you like. that you would like to see again? Small Group Questions c. What a thrill it must have been for the disciples “The Facts of the Resurrection” to see Jesus alive again after he was laid in the John 20:1-31 tomb. What other religious leaders who have died have empty tombs? Previous message summary: Last week we studied the Discussion Questions miraculous healing of a lame man by the pool of Bethesda. When the man was healed, one would think Read John 20 that he would respond with an enthusiastic “Yes!” but 2. It has been said, he who has been forgiven much, instead he began to give excuses. Jesus went into the loves much. John 20:1 says that Mary went to the unclean area and saw the man as a pearl of great value. tomb early. What do we know about Mary Of all the crowd of broken humanity around the pool, the Magdalene? Read Luke 8:1-2. Father directed Jesus to this man who was stuck in his sin a. Why did she go to the tomb while it was still to help him get up, to bring healing and point him in the dark, and maybe even dangerous? What did right direction. Jesus loves everyone including the sick she expect to find? and lame, and continues to reach out to them for healing and salvation. b. What did she encounter when she arrived at the tomb? What was her reaction? What we learned: As in the situation with the lame man, c. In verse 2, what did Mary assume and tell Jesus wants to heal the weakness that continues to Peter? plague us. He wants to free us from the sin that paralyzes, so we can be made well. We can surrender it d. Put yourself in the place of Mary—what is your all to him and be free from the bondage of fear and emotional state so far? unbelief (1 John 4:16). So, we have come to know and 3. When Peter hears the report from Mary, what does believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and he do, and who follows? Who arrived at the tomb whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in first? Who entered the tomb first? Read verses 3-9. him. Typically, corpses were wrapped with one piece of cloth and the head was wrapped separately, with a Introduction cloth twirled about it like a turban. 1. Have you ever unexpectedly encountered someone a. What did John see when he went inside that you love and were so surprised to see them? Maybe made him believe? it was an infatuation when you were young, or a b. At this point, do you think the disciples friend or relative you hadn’t seen in a while that understood what had happened? brought joy when you suddenly saw them. Tell about c. Later in this chapter, Jesus is able to enter a an experience like this you’ve had in the past. locked room. Why was the stone rolled away? a. What was it about reconnecting with this 4. Peter and John left the tomb, leaving Mary, who was person that made it so enjoyable? crying. When she looked into the tomb, who did she see? What question did Mary ask? Read verses 10- 7. What evidence do we have today that the 18. resurrection of Jesus Christ is real? a. What is she convinced has happened to Jesus’ a. What did Jesus mean when he said in verse body? 29, ... “blessed are those who have not seen b. When Mary hears Jesus’ voice, who does she and yet have believed”? think is talking to her? Why doesn’t she b. Have you ever believed something without recognize him at first? seeing it for yourself? In that situation, what c. What is significant about the fact that Jesus convinced you to believe? first appears to a woman? Challenge: This week, ask God to fill you with his Holy d. What word does Jesus use to describe his Spirit, so that you can see opportunities he has for you to disciples in verse 17? How is this different from share the truth of the resurrection, and to give you the before? What is new in their relationship from boldness to speak about it, no matter what the cost. Don’t now on? See John 15:15. When having your let the distractions of the world rob you of the joy that quiet time or devotions, how would you comes from sharing the Gospel. describe your relationship? Action: Read the Bible consistently every day, knowing 5. Read verses 18-23. That night the disciples had to that as you fill your spiritual tank you will be prepared to be discussing what Mary had told them about seeing speak and do what God has for you. Jesus. Why were the disciples fearful and hiding behind locked doors? Next Steps:

a. Do you ever have a similar fear when facing an G I have doubts, but am willing to investigate further. opportunity to share your faith? How did the disciples change from being fearful to bold? G I believe, but need help with taking the next steps of What can we do to emulate the early church? faith. 6. Read verses 24-30. When Jesus appeared to the G I am firmly committed to Jesus as my Lord and disciples, who was missing? What was his reaction Savior. and why do you think he responded that way? a. If ten of your closest friends told you something unbelievable, would you have trouble believing? b. Does Thomas’ skepticism add credibility to the resurrection account? Why? c. Thomas waited a week before seeing Jesus. When he had the opportunity, did Thomas follow through with his requirements for authenticity? How did Thomas respond?