Francis Chan: Easter Message 2009 - Cornerstone

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging the true power of Jesus Christ. We often underestimate his authority and capabilities, painting a weak picture of him that doesn't align with the biblical account. However, the Bible reveals a powerful and majestic being who is worthy of reverence and awe. As we reflect on Easter, we are reminded of Jesus' resurrection and his declaration of having the keys to death and Hades. This teaching encourages us to reevaluate our understanding of Jesus and recognize his true nature as a powerful and authoritative figure.

Key Scripture References

• Matthew 4:10 - In this passage, Satan tempts Jesus in the wilderness, but Jesus responds by saying, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'" This verse showcases Jesus' authority and power over even the Devil himself.
• Matthew 5:20 - Here, Jesus warns that unless our righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, we will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This statement highlights Jesus' boldness and expectation for his followers to live a life of righteousness.
• Matthew 6:24 - In this verse, Jesus teaches that one cannot serve two masters, either God or money. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our relationship with him above all else.
• Matthew 7:28-29 - After delivering a series of teachings on judgment and righteousness, Jesus concludes by saying, "The crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority." This verse demonstrates the impact of Jesus' words and the awe-inspiring nature of his teaching.
• Matthew 8:26-27 - When a fierce storm arises on the lake, Jesus calms it with just a word. The disciples are amazed by his power, saying, "What sort of man is this that even the winds and sea obey him?" This passage illustrates Jesus' authority over creation itself.
• Matthew 9:8 - After healing a paralytic man, the crowd is afraid and glorifies God for giving such authority to men. This verse shows the reaction of people when they witness Jesus' power firsthand.
• Matthew 10:28 - In this verse, Jesus warns against fearing those who can only kill the body but not the soul. Instead, he encourages us to fear him, who can destroy both body and soul in hell. This passage highlights the gravity of Jesus' message and his expectation for our reverence.

Main Points

• We often underestimate the power and authority of Jesus Christ.
• The Bible reveals a powerful and majestic being worthy of reverence and awe.
• Jesus' resurrection and declaration of having the keys to death and Hades emphasize his true nature as a powerful figure.
• Jesus expects his followers to live a life of righteousness, exceeding that of even the most righteous among them.
• Jesus prioritizes our relationship with him above all else, teaching us to seek his kingdom and righteousness first.
• Jesus' words have authority and impact, demonstrating his power over creation itself.
• People react with awe and reverence when they witness Jesus' power firsthand.
• Jesus warns against fearing those who can only harm the body but encourages us to fear him, who has the power to destroy both body and soul in hell.

Application

As we reflect on this message, let us reevaluate our understanding of Jesus and recognize his true nature as a powerful and authoritative figure. May we seek to live a life of righteousness, prioritizing our relationship with him above all else. May we reverence and awe the power of Jesus Christ, recognizing that he has authority over creation itself.