April 27, 2025 Sermon Notes

Believing Without Seeing (John 20:19–31) Today, we find ourselves in the days after Easter, when the joyful celebrations have faded, and real life presses in again. In today's passage, the risen Jesus appears to His fearful disciples and offers three precious gifts: peace, purpose, and power.

First, Jesus says, “Peace be with you.” Even though their circumstances had not changed — their fears and uncertainties remained — Jesus met them exactly where they were and gave them peace. In the same way, our lives may not change overnight after Easter. Yet, because Jesus is alive and with us, we can have deep peace that the world cannot take away.

Second, Jesus says, “I am sending you.” Those who have received the peace of Christ are called to share it. Our mission field may be our homes, workplaces, or everyday encounters. Like the faithful believer who quietly lived out Christ’s peace through her struggles, we are invited to be living witnesses of His peace.

Third, Jesus says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Jesus never sends us out emptyhanded. It is not by our own strength, but by the Spirit, that we can share Christ’s peace and love.

Finally, Jesus teaches us the heart of faith: believing without seeing. True faith holds on when there are no signs, trusts when prayers seem unanswered, and believes that God is at work even when we cannot see it.

Dear friends, this week, walk confidently in Christ’s peace, lean on the Spirit’s power, and live by faith — not by sight. May your life be a shining testimony to the living Lord. Christ is risen, He is alive, and He is with us always!

Amen