Why Easter Matters // Easter Sunday

“If we were put on friendly terms with God by the sacrificial death of His Son, now just think how our lives will expand and deepen by means of His resurrection life!” Romans 5:10 (Msg)

Jesus said, “I’m here inviting outsiders, not insiders – an invitation to a changed life, changed inside and out.” Luke 5:32 (Msg)

HOW TO BECOME A BETTER PERSON

I.  OPEN YOUR MIND TO GOD’S POWER

“Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.”  Romans 12:2 (NLB)

“Many are far away from the life of God because they have shut their minds against Him, so they can’t understand His ways.”  Ephesians 4:18 (LB)

“I pray that you’ll begin to understand how incredibly great His power is to help those who believe Him.  It’s the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead.”  Ephesians 1:19-20 (LB)

II.  OPEN YOUR HEART TO GOD’S GRACE

“God has showered upon us the richness of His grace, for He understands us and knows what is best for us at all times.” Ephesians 1:8 (LB)

“God says He will accept and acquit us – declare us ‘not guilty’ – if we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins.  And we all can be saved in the same way, by coming to Christ, no matter who we are or what we have been like.”  Romans 3:22 (LB)

“Saving is all His idea, and all His work.  All we do is trust Him enough to let Him do it.  It’s God’s gift from start to finish!”  Ephesians 2:8 (Msg)

“God gives grace to the humble…  So let God work His will in you.  Say a quiet yes to God and He’ll be there in no time.” James 4:6-8 (Msg)

III.  OPEN YOUR LIFE TO GOD’S LOVE

“By using your faith, the life of Christ will be released deep inside you, and the resting place of his love will become the very source and root of your life. Then you will be empowered to discover the astonishing love of Christ. How deeply intimate and far-reaching is his love! How enduring and inclusive it is! Endless love beyond measurement that transcends our understanding—this extravagant love pours into you until you are filled to overflowing with the fullness of God!” Ephesians 3:17-18 (TPT)

“We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that He has already thrown open His door to us!”  Romans 5:2 (Msg)

“Jesus has His arms wide open for you.” 1 Cor. 16:23 (Msg)

WOULDN’T YOU LIKE A FRESH START WITH GOD?

A Fresh Start Prayer
Dear God, I’d like a fresh start on life.  I don’t want to stay the same.  There are things in my life that need changing.  So as much as I know how, I want to open up my mind to Your power and my heart to Your grace.  Thank You for loving me and forgiving me.  Thank You for sending your Son, Jesus, to die for my sins.  Help me to understand that more.  Jesus Christ, I want to open up my life to You and get to know You.  I invite You to be the manager of my life from this day forward.  I want to learn to trust You.  Thank You.  Amen.