Case Study of Mary

John 20:1-4; 11-18

Pastor Joel Sutton, Easter, March 31, 2013

Components of a connecting faith:

• Christian faith rests in truth.

• Christian faith comes by grace.

• Christian faith works through love.

Take Home Idea: Easter faith is a personal, life-changing discovery of the triumphant Jesus.

Discussion Questions

Opening:

What do you believe about UFO's? Ever seen any?

Look at the Take Home idea. Explain it in your own words.

Dig:

Why does Mary come to Jesus' tomb? What is her emotional state? Realizing that the body is gone, how do you react?

Given the disciples response (vs. 8), why is Mary crying? What did it take to break through Mary's grief and disbelief?

Why is it so remarkable that Mary is the first one Jesus shows himself to? What does that tell you about Jesus?

What extra insight can you learn about Jesus from the way he talks to her in vs. 15 - 16?

What is Jesus doing in vs. 17? How does Jesus express both his love for Mary and for the disciples?

Reflect:

Why is it important that our faith rest in the truth of Jesus' resurrection? How does that effect you?

What difference does it make to you that faith comes by grace?

How has Jesus spoken your name in a time of grief? How did it effect you?

Close by sharing your answers and then praying together.