The Power of Jesus’ Resurrection (preaching resource for 4/27/25, Easter 2)

This post exegetes John 20:19-31, providing context for the RCL Gospel reading on the second Sunday of Eastertide (4/27/25). Insights are drawn from Warren Wiersbe ("The Bible Expository Commentary"), Donald Guthrie ("The New Bible Commentary"), Michael Card ("The Parable of Joy"), and F.F. Bruce ("The Gospel of John"). "The Incredulity of St. Thomas" by Rembrandt (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction The news that Jesus had risen from the dead spread rapidly among his followers—at first with skepticism, then hesitation, but finally with enthusiasm and joy. At first, even his disciples did not believe the reports, and Thomas demanded proof. But wherever people were confronted with the reality of Jesus’ resurrection, lives were transformed. In the latter part of John chapter 20 we find the unfolding of this transformation in three steps: from fear to courage, from unbelief to confidence, and from death to life. From Fear to ...