Easter Sunday 2024 - History's Greatest Grand Opening

70% of Americans (or right around that number) believe that Jesus rose from the dead. But the reason there isn’t a spiritual awakening in this country is that what was ALSO determined from research was that for a good majority of those people who believe Jesus rose from the dead, those who acknowledge the truth of Easter, they don’t see how it makes any kind of difference to their lives.

And so, they do not live resurrected lives. They remain dead in their sins; their faith in Jesus’ resurrection, just a mere mental acknowledgement that has no power, practically, in their lives.

Many people may not gather in a faith community throughout the year - but somehow they know that being in church on Easter is somehow important. And they’re there. And they tell me, sometimes, how they USED to come here as kids - but they haven’t been in a long time. And they are afraid that somehow God is going to strike them with lightning as soon as they step foot in the building.

Some have even seemed hesitant to come in. You wonder what their lives must be like for that kind of almost FEAR. Like in there, where the service is happening is a holy place, and for whatever reason, they feel like they would not be welcomed there.

Some of you may have come to church this morning with a similar anxiety that something this morning at church is going to be holy, and you won't be welcome there. Deep inside there has been something that has been closed off, at least that’s how you feel. And you’re here today - but you aren’t sure you’re truly welcome in the presence of a holy God.

Today I want you to see that what you THINK, what you FEEL, has been closed off, actually has been opened. The title of today’s message is History’s Greatest Grand Opening. And there’s something exciting about a grand opening, isn’t there? Big news and great hope for the future.