He is Not Here | Matthew 28:1-10 with Lars Olson

On Easter morning in Matthew 28, we arrive with Mary Magdalene expecting death, but instead the earth shakes and a new creation breaks in where the crucified Jesus is no longer in the tomb. In this episode we resist the urge to soften the shock and simply preach what the text declares: “He is not here, he has risen, as he said”—a promise that turns fear into joy because it is spoken for you. The resurrection isn’t an idea to admire but a Word that does something—Christ goes ahead of you, meets you alive, and creates faith by announcing that sin and death no longer define you.

GOSPEL 

Matthew 28:1-10

1 After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples, 'He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.' This is my message for you." 8 So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."