Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

If Christ Had Not Been Raised - Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Sunday, April 1, 2018

Scripture References

1 Corinthians 15:12-58John 16:7Hebrews 9:28Revelation 7Revelation 22:12

Sermon Summary

Pastor Daniel Batarseh examines 1 Corinthians 15 to show that without the resurrection, faith is futile and sin remains. Because Christ is truly risen, believers are called to live with steadfast devotion, victory over sin, and urgent purpose.

Key Takeaways

1The resurrection is the definitive declaration of God’s acceptance of Christ's sacrifice for humanity.
2Salvation is not just about avoiding the penalty of sin (hell), but being delivered from the power of sin in this life through the Holy Spirit.
3Belief in the resurrection is logically inseparable from the expectation of Christ's second coming.
4The secret to consistency and steadfastness in the Christian faith is a constant awareness that Jesus is currently alive.
5A believer's life should be prioritized around the eventual 'appointment' and reward from the risen King.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why do you think Paul uses a 'negative argument' (what if it didn't happen) to prove the importance of the resurrection?
2Pastor Daniel mentioned that without the resurrection, we might as well 'eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.' How do you see that mindset manifesting in society today?
3How does the link between the resurrection and the Holy Spirit change your understanding of your daily struggle with sin?
4What does it mean to be 'immovable' in your faith? What are the 'beasts' or pressures that try to move you away from Christ?
5If you truly lived as if Jesus were returning this year, what is one major thing in your life that would look different?
6The sermon mentions the 'smile of the Master' as the ultimate reward. How does that compare to common ideas of heaven (golden streets, etc.)?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Evaluate your weekly schedule and reprioritize your activities based on the reality that Christ is returning.
When facing anxiety or 'bad news,' remind yourself that because Christ is alive, your hope is not tied to earthly circumstances.
Identify a recurring sin or struggle and ask the Holy Spirit for the 'resurrection power' needed to live in victory over it today.
Commit to a specific 'work of the Lord' (ministry or service) with the confidence that your labor has eternal value.
End your day by meditating on the phrase 'He is alive' to align your heart with the presence of God before sleep.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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