Easter: The Good Catastrophe

Matthew 28:1-20

I. The Good Catastrophe: Easter’s Joyous Turn (Matthew 28:1-7)

 

II. The First Encounter: Meeting the Risen Jesus (Matthew 28:8-10) 

 

III. The Great Commission: A Resurrection Revolution (Matthew 28:11-20)

 

 Small Group Discussion Questions

1. The sermon describes a "eucatastrophe" as a sudden joyous turn from despair to victory. Can you share a personal moment in your life where you experienced a "good catastrophe"—a time when hope emerged unexpectedly from a dark situation?

 

2. Why do you think the Resurrection is described as the ultimate eucatastrophe of human history? How does this perspective shift the way you view challenges or suffering in your life? 

3. The sermon notes a cultural hunger for authentic, face-to-face relationships over superficial digital connections. How does the Christian faith, through encountering the resurrected Jesus Christ personally, answer this longing? 

 

4. The women, often overlooked in their society, were the first to proclaim the Resurrection. How does this encourage you to share the Gospel, regardless of your perceived status or qualifications? How does Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always,” empower you in this mission?

5. The religious leaders spread a lie to cover up the Resurrection. What modern-day "lies" or distractions try to bury the truth of the Resurrection in our culture? How can we counter these with the Gospel?