“Reaching and Receiving”

Apr.12, 2015 Jn.20:19-31 Play AUDIO (32 kbps mp3)

ALL KEYED UP

•    handy things to have – until you’re locked out
•    Jesus authorizes use of ‘keys of the Kingdom’

FROM AMBUSHED TO AMBASSADORS

•    church tempted to be fearful of persecution given cultural shifts
•    Jesus’ surprise appearance brings joy
•    sent in His peace
•    authorized to announce forgiveness of sins
•    proclaim God’s grace & greatness
•    sin-talk unwelcome, but helpful for diagnosis

FROM SKEPTICISM TO SUBMISSION

•    Thomas not necessarily more ‘doubting’ than the rest
•    acknowledges Jesus as Lord / God: sign of submission
•    blessing in believing what’s written; new “life” itself confirmation

THE TIME YOU HAVE LEFT

•    brush with death persuades leader to live for Christ
•    will we commit as Thomas did?