Have you ever been disappointed with God because He did not act when you needed Him most? That is how Jesus’ disciples felt as they sat grieving after His death, refusing to believe even the eyewitnesses of the resurrection (Mark 16). This sermon shows that Jesus does not reject doubters, it is precisely to them that He entrusts the mission of sharing the good news, and it is in their lives that He performs His greatest miracle. Listen and discover that certainty comes not through arguments but through a personal encounter with the Risen One.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- According to Mark 16:9-14, the disciples believed neither Mary Magdalene nor the two disciples on the road to the village. Despite Jesus' earlier predictions and the miracles they had seen, what made it so hard for them to believe?
- Jesus rebukes the Eleven for their unbelief and stubborn hearts, then immediately entrusts them with proclaiming the good news to everyone without exception. What does this turn show you about how Jesus treats people full of doubt?
- The speaker compared the disciples' stubbornness to a mother who won't believe her child misbehaved and a driver who denies fault despite camera footage. In what situations does focusing on your problems close you off to the truth about God?
- The sermon said that certainty doesn't come from arguments but from a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. How do you understand this idea, and what does it mean for your own doubts?
- The speaker stressed that signs of God's power are interwoven with everyday weakness, and that caring for the sick is a great sign of God's love. Where around you do you notice either kind of sign?
- According to the sermon, the greatest miracle we can see today is a sinner rising to new life. Who could you courageously tell about your encounter with Jesus this week, and how might you do it?
