Learning on the way
Sermon Summary:
Our Easter sermon explores the concept of “quiet resurrections” through the story of James, the brother of Jesus. While Easter is often associated with the dramatic events of the empty tomb, angels, and public celebrations, the sermon focuses on a less prominent resurrection story, the personal transformation of James from skeptic to church leader. Drawing on 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 and John 7:5, the pastor highlights how James did not initially believe in Jesus despite growing up with him. After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to James privately, completely transforming his life. This personal encounter changed James from someone who called Jesus “crazy” (Mark 3:21) to someone who called Him “Lord of glory” (James 2) and eventually became a pillar of the early church. The sermon emphasizes that Easter is for doubters, skeptics, and those who feel they may have missed their chance, reminding us that resurrection is not just about Jesus but also about our own transformation.
Key Points:
- Proximity to truth is not the same as being transformed by truth
- Easter is not just a public message but a private invitation to faith
- Jesus specifically seeks out doubters and skeptics, like James
- Many transformations happen privately and gradually over time
- Because of resurrection, our direction in life changes completely
- The risen Jesus still appears today through His Word, Spirit, and people
- Resurrection is not just for Jesus, it’s for us as well
Small Group Questions:
- The sermon discusses how James, despite growing up with Jesus, didn’t believe in Him. Have you ever been close to spiritual truth but resistant to embracing it? What kept you from fully surrendering?
- What does the statement “proximity to truth is not the same as being transformed by truth” mean to you? How have you seen this play out in your own life or in the lives of others?
- Jesus appeared privately to James after the resurrection. How has Jesus “resurrected” you in personal, quiet ways that led to transformation in your life?
- The sermon mentions C.S. Lewis’s gradual journey to faith. How has your own faith journey resembled either a sudden transformation or a slow, quiet process? Which testimonies do you find more encouraging?
- James went from calling Jesus “crazy” to calling Him “Lord of glory.” Share a belief or perspective about God that has dramatically changed in your life.
- The sermon encourages us to “not despise the slow transformation.” In what areas of your life do you struggle with wanting immediate spiritual growth rather than gradual transformation?
- How does James’ story give you hope for people in your life who don’t yet believe in Jesus?
Key Verses
1 Corinthians 15:3-8, John 7:5, Mark 3:21, James 1:1, James 2:1
Application On The Way
This week, identify an area where God is working a “quiet resurrection” in your life. It might be a slow change in your character, a gradual healing of a relationship, or a growing certainty in an area where you once doubted. Write down how you’ve seen progress in this area, even if it’s been slow, and thank God specifically for this ongoing transformation. Consider sharing this with one person as a testimony to God’s patient work in your life.
Want to Go Deeper?
Acts 15:1-21, Galatians 1:18-19, 1 Corinthians 9:5, Galatians 2:9, Acts 21:17-26, James 1:1-27
The book of James reflects a practical faith that emphasizes action, not just belief. Read through the book of James this week, noting how his writing might reflect his own journey from skepticism to authentic faith.
Jesus’ family initially thought he was “out of his mind” (Mark 3:21). How does Mark 3:31-35 redefine Jesus’ understanding of family? How might this have affected James after he came to believe in Jesus?
In Galatians 2:9, Paul refers to James as a “pillar” of the church. What qualities do you think made James such a respected leader despite his late start in believing? How might his initial skepticism have actually strengthened his leadership later?