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Sermon Notes: "On the Third Day He Rose Again" | Apostles Creed Series
Welcome, church family! Today, I’m pleased to share my notes from our message on the next line in the Apostles’ Creed: “On the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.” May these notes encourage and challenge you this week as we live out our faith together.
1. Facing the Ups and Downs: Knowing the End of the Story
I opened by reflecting on how knowing the ending of a story changes how we experience the middle. Just like my wife Caitlin enjoys reading movie summaries to reduce anxiety during tense moments, we, too, often wish we could “read ahead” in our own lives. We want to know how hard diagnoses, relationship troubles, or unknown outcomes will resolve.
But as followers of Jesus, we have a unique hope: the resurrection of Jesus reveals the true ending of our story. This changes how we handle life’s suspense, fear, and difficulties.
2. The Apostles' Creed: Our Faith Anchored
The Apostles' Creed is a historic declaration that unites Christians around the world. Every line proclaims, “I believe.” The real question is: What would it look like if we truly lived as if these words were true?
Last week, we journeyed into the difficult words: Jesus “suffered under Pontius Pilate… was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell.” From an earthly viewpoint, it might seem like the story ends in defeat, but the Creed doesn’t stop there.
3. The Heart of Christianity: Resurrection and Ascension
On the third day, He rose again from the dead. These are the words at the very heart of the Christian faith.
The one who was crucified and died is now alive.
Death could not keep Him; the grave could not hold Him.
Jesus’ followers faced despair, but everything changed when He appeared to them after His resurrection.
He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.
Jesus, the one who walked among us, is now in the place of honor and authority, interceding for us.
4. Easter: Hope Interrupts Grief
On the first Easter morning, women went to Jesus’ tomb filled with grief, expecting only to say goodbye. Instead, they found the grave empty and heard the message: “He is not here; He is risen, just as He said.”
Jesus keeps His promises—even when hope seems lost.
Their sorrow turned to joy as they encountered the risen Jesus.
Matthew’s account reminds us that we can come to Jesus afraid and joyful, questioning and trembling—and He will meet us there. Hope was restored as they realized: death does not have the last word.
5. Eyewitnesses and the Power of the Resurrection
The Apostle Paul grounded his teaching in the real, bodily resurrection of Jesus. He listed multiple witnesses—those who saw the risen Christ with their own eyes. Paul insists:
“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”
The resurrection is not just a metaphor. It is the foundation of our faith. Because He lives, what Jesus says is trustworthy.
6. What the Resurrection Means for Us
Jesus’ resurrection is just the beginning. Paul calls Him the “firstfruits”—the promise of more to come.
If we belong to Christ by faith, we too will be raised to new life.
God’s new creation has already begun in Jesus. Our hope extends beyond death—to a future where all creation is renewed.
The resurrection puts no timetable on our tears. Grief and pain are real, but because of Jesus, we look forward—not just backward.
7. Jesus Ascended and Intercedes for Us
After rising from the dead, Jesus ascended to heaven and sits at the right hand of God.
In ancient times, priests never sat—their work was never done. But Jesus’ sacrifice is complete. He sits because the work of salvation is finished.
The right hand is the place of ultimate authority. Jesus is Lord, reigning now.
Most importantly:
Jesus intercedes for you and me!
He brings our prayers, concerns, and needs before the Father.
Just as a parent understands their child’s cry better than anyone, Jesus knows the deepest cries of our hearts—even when our words fail.
8. Living the Middle with Hope
So, how do we live like this is true?
Bring your fears, sadness, and questions to Jesus. Even simple prayers like, “Jesus, help me,” are enough.
Be a person who prays for others—intercede for someone by name this week.
Make a note, set a reminder, and actually pray.
Trust that Jesus takes those prayers to the Father on your behalf—and theirs.
9. The Hopeful Ending
We wish we could pull out our phones and see what tomorrow brings, but we know the One who writes the ending.
Jesus’ resurrection declares that grief, pain, and even death will not have the last word.
Hope, new life, and His presence are promised to all who trust in Him.
Let’s be a church that lives with this resurrection hope—trusting Jesus with our stories, praying for one another, and holding on to the promise that He will bring us life.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank you that Jesus is interceding for us even now. Help us to trust in His finished work and to bring the needs of others before you with confidence. Give us the hope of the resurrection and eyes to see those you’re calling us to love and pray for this week.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thank you for reading and reflecting. Let’s go and live the hope of the resurrection today!
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A Study of the Apostles’ Creed
Opening Prayer
Begin with a simple prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to illuminate God’s Word and guide your conversation.
Introduction
The Apostles’ Creed anchors foundational Christian beliefs. This session focuses on the resurrection of Jesus, His ascension, and His current reign—truths that shape Christian hope and daily living.
Discussion Questions
1. Facing Uncertainty With Hope
The sermon used the example of wanting to “read ahead” in a story to feel secure about the ending. How do you relate to this desire in your own life, especially during uncertain or difficult times?
Discuss: “Knowing the ending changes how we face the ups and the downs of the middle.” How might the resurrection shape your perspective on hardships?
2. Truth and Transformation
The question was raised, “What would it look like if we actually lived as if the words that we proclaim on Sunday morning are true?”
What are practical ways you can live out the truth that Christ is risen, right now, in your story?
How might this truth challenge or comfort you in daily life?
3. The Resurrection: Foundation of Faith
“Right here in this Creed is the heart of what we believe, the heart of the Christian faith.”
Why is the bodily resurrection of Jesus essential to the Christian faith (see also 1 Corinthians 15)?
How does the resurrection distinguish Christian hope from mere optimism or wishful thinking?
4. Honest Grief and Real Hope
The sermon acknowledges that “the resurrection puts no timetable on our tears.”
How does the resurrection of Jesus enable us to grieve honestly while still maintaining hope?
Are there particular losses you carry that you want to bring before Jesus, the risen one?
5. The Ascended and Interceding Christ
Reflect on this: “Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father interceding for us.”
How does knowing Jesus is actively praying for you change the way you approach God?
Share any times you’ve sensed Jesus’ advocacy or comfort in prayer.
6. Joining Jesus in Prayer
“Interceding for others means praying on their behalf… This week, I challenge you to be intentional about praying for at least one person by name.”
Who is God putting on your heart to pray for this week?
What’s one step you will take to remember and pray for them daily?
Key Takeaways
Jesus’ resurrection assures us that death and evil do not have the last word; our story is secure in Him.
Grief and joy often intermingle in the Christian life. The resurrection invites us to honest lament and bold hope.
Christ’s ongoing intercession means we are never truly alone in our needs or in our prayers for others.
Closing Prayer
Invite everyone to bring a simple, honest prayer to Jesus for themselves or someone else—as the sermon said, even “Jesus, I’m scared” is prayer enough.
End together:
“Thank you, Jesus, that you are alive, reigning, and interceding for us. Amen.”
On the Third Day He rose again | Apostle’s Creed | Matthew 28:1-10
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