Graves Opened; Saints Appeared
Minister: |
Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: |
3/27/2016 AM
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Text:
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Matthew 27:52,53
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Psalters: |
315, 110, 175, 79 |
- The miracle.
- We must consider this unusual event from the perspective of faith - believing it to be real and a wonder or sign.
- The Bible does not answer all our questions, but only tells us what we need to know.
- We must focus on what this says about Jesus and His resurrection.
- Other important details.
- There were two tremendous earthquakes, one at Jesus’ death and one at His resurrection.
- This earthquake opened graves which were caves which had large round stones rolled in front of them.
- Specific graves opened: of those who are identified as saints.
- This was a real, bodily resurrection of previously dead people.
- There were many, so many that likely everyone living in Jerusalem caught sight of at least one of these saints.
- They arose with the mission and purpose of appearing to people in Jerusalem.
- We must see its significance in light of Jesus’ cross and resurrection
- First, this event shows that Jesus’ death and His resurrection are inseparably connected.
- Second, “after His resurrection” declares an inseparable connection between Jesus’ resurrection and our bodily resurrection.
- Third, the open graves and appearing saints is a vindication of the cause of God represented in Jesus.
- This is a testimony against those who lived unholy lives, for it was only “saints” who were raised.
- And this is a testimony for us to live holy lives, for the unholy will not have this kind of resurrection (Eph. 5:5).
- Finally, there is great encouragement to God’s people, for when believers die the “sleep.”