"Living Proof" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The resurrection of Jesus is the linchpin of Christianity. If He was not raised from the dead, then our faith and all that we believe has no foundation. Just like in the court of law, the testimony of witnesses carry a lot of weight and many times determines the outcome of a verdict. The firsthand accounts of these many witnesses in the Bible, including his closest friends and family, tells us that Jesus indeed rose from the dead. This validates his authority to forgive sins. It also proves once and for all that he was God. But If we are to be followers of Christ, then it’s not enough to simply believe. We must do as He did. We must love others as he loved. It’s our proof that we are citizens of His kingdom.

Main Passage

When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. 2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3 And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large.
- Mark 16:1-4

19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews,[a] Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
- John 20:19-20

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,
- 1 Peter 1:3-4

Discussion Questions

  1. Jesus perfectly represented God’s character, and lets us know what God is like. What are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings about God that are corrected through Jesus?

  2. The testimony of the disciples and other followers of Christ carried the Christian message around the world. Share your testimony, or the testimony of another Christian that inspires you. (If sharing someone else’s story: why does is stand out?)

  3. Jesus changes the lives of those who follow Him. If you’re a Christian, or thinking about becoming one, how has your life changed?