Introduction: There are several stories in the Bible about people coming back to life. Elijah and Elisha the prophets raised people from death. Even Elisha's bones raised the dead: "And it came to pass, as they were burying a man, that, behold, they spied a band of men; and they cast the man into the sepulchre of Elisha: and when the man was let down, and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived, and stood up on his feet." (2 K. 13:21) Jesus raised the dead, and so did some of the apostles. Today we zero in on the most important resurrection of all, that of our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. It is interesting to note people's feelings about the resurrection in Matthew 28.

I. Mary looked forward to Jesus' resurrection, and showed her anticipation by going to the tomb even before sunrise. She was anticipating something wonderful because of what Jesus said just a short time earlier (Matthew 20:17-19). Mary had faith.

II. The angels had the joy of participating in the resurrection. They were allowed to roll away the stone. They were allowed to give the resurrection message to the ladies at the tomb.

III. The guards experienced the feeling of extreme terror at the resurrection and the appearance of the angels. They were so terrified that they fainted and fell to the ground.

IV. The ladies again -- they had fear, too, but not like the guards. They rejoiced at the news of the resurrection, and they worshipped Jesus when He appeared to them. Do you want to meet Jesus? Then be like these ladies. Believe! Rejoice! Worship! Jesus is looking for fellowship with such as you. John 4:23 "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him."

V. The Chief Priests and the Elders -- They had instigated the execution of Jesus. Now God graciously sends them a final chance to repent and believe. Instead, they rebel and lie, and pay others to lie about Jesus and the disciples. They show a confirmed hatred of God.

VI. The disciples: They worshiped the risen Christ. And they were obedient to the Great Commission. Mary and Martha are both instructive to us. We need to sit at Jesus' feet. We also need to be busy serving the Lord.

Conclusion: May God help us to react to the resurrection with faith and love and obedience. Amen.