Easter at CityBridge

Sermon Notes

Happy Easter! 🎉 Today, we celebrate the hope we have because of the empty tomb—Jesus is alive!

As we wrap up our Back to the Garden series, we turn to John 20 and the moment Mary Magdalene discovered the stone had been rolled away. What seemed like the end of the story became the beginning of new life. In that garden, the risen Jesus called Mary by name—and everything changed.

Because the tomb is empty, death has been defeated. Our lives no longer have to be marked by fear, shame, or hopelessness. We’ve been invited into God’s family, given a new identity, and sent with a message worth sharing: Jesus lives—and that changes everything.

Join us this Easter as David Marvin walks us through this powerful scene and reminds us that because Jesus rose, we can live with purpose, peace, and unshakable hope.

Key Points

1. Because the Tomb Is Empty, Death Has Been Defeated.

2. Because the Tomb Is Empty, Our Lives Don’t Have To Be.

3. Because the Tomb Is Empty, We Can Be Part of the Family of God.

4. Because the Tomb Is Empty, We Have a Message To Share.

Discussion Questions

1. Mary didn’t recognize Jesus until He called her by name.
   Can you think of a time when Jesus felt especially personal to you—when He met you in your pain, confusion, or doubt? What helped you recognize His presence?

2. Because of the resurrection, death has been defeated and we have lasting hope.
   How does that truth shape the way you approach fear, suffering, or uncertainty in your current season?

3. Jesus told Mary to go and tell the disciples what she had seen.
   Who in your life might need to hear the hope of the empty tomb? What would it look like to take a step of faith and share what Jesus has done in your life?

4. Jesus referred to His disciples as “My brothers” for the first time after the resurrection.
   How does knowing you’re part of God’s family change the way you see your identity, your community, or your purpose?

5. The resurrection doesn’t just change our future—it transforms our everyday.
   In what ways can the truth of the empty tomb reshape how you live, love, and lead this week?