How the Empty Tomb Can Change Everything

Have you ever had a moment that changed your life forever? Whether it's the day you got married, held your child for the first time, or said goodbye to someone you love—some experiences leave you saying, “I will never be the same again.” For three of Jesus’ followers—Mary Magdalene, Simon Peter, and John—their world changed one early Sunday morning when they discovered that the tomb was empty. What they found didn’t just shift their understanding; it transformed their lives forever.

At Hope Church, we recently explored John 20:1–18, where the Apostle John shares the life-altering encounter these followers had with the risen Jesus. If you’re searching for purpose, wrestling with doubt, or longing for joy, this story has something to say to you.

1. Let the Empty Tomb Change Your Perspective

Mary came to Jesus’ tomb expecting to mourn, not to celebrate. Like many of us, she was stuck in what she could see—a sealed grave, a dead friend, a broken dream. But what she found was an open tomb and missing body. Initially, she assumed the worst. After all, who could imagine that Jesus had actually risen?

Many of us carry that same short-sighted view into our lives. We get caught in the here and now—jobs, stress, heartbreak, success—and wonder if there’s more. Even people with the world at their feet have found themselves echoing the words of NFL legend Tom Brady: “There’s got to be more than this.”

The resurrection invites us to look up. It’s a call to shift our focus from earthly disappointment to eternal hope. When you let the empty tomb change your perspective, you discover that God is doing far more than you could ever imagine.

2. Let the Empty Tomb Draw You In

John and Peter didn’t settle for secondhand news. When they heard Mary’s report, they ran to see the tomb for themselves. There’s a lesson here: When it comes to Jesus, don’t stand at a distance—lean in.

John, the author of this Gospel, tells us that upon seeing the burial cloths lying in order, he believed. The neat arrangement of Jesus' grave clothes wasn’t the scene of a grave robbery. It was evidence of victory.

Maybe today you’re skeptical or unsure, or maybe you’re carrying regret like Peter, who had denied Jesus just days earlier. Don’t let your doubt or guilt keep you from running to Jesus. The same Savior who restored Peter can restore you too. The resurrection is an invitation to explore, to question, and ultimately, to believe.

3. Let the Empty Tomb Fill You with Confidence and Joy

Mary’s story didn’t end in sorrow. It ended in an encounter. Blinded by grief, she didn’t recognize the man standing before her—until He called her by name. “Mary,” He said. And in that moment, she knew.

The same Jesus who walked out of the tomb is the Good Shepherd who calls His sheep by name (John 10:3), and when He does, everything changes. Fear turns to confidence. Sadness turns to joy. And ordinary people become messengers of eternal hope.

Mary was the first to proclaim the resurrection. Her message? “I have seen the Lord!” That’s the same message we carry today. Because Jesus is alive, death is defeated, grace is available, and a new life is possible.

Let the Resurrection Change You

Jesus rose from the dead and changed the lives of His followers forever. Will you let Him change yours?

Maybe He’s calling your name. Maybe you’ve been searching for something more. The resurrection is God’s declaration that your past doesn’t define you, your future is secure, and life is worth living because Jesus lives.

Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or have been walking with Jesus for years, there’s always more to experience in Him. Hope, peace, joy, purpose—it all flows from the empty tomb.

👉 Join us this Sunday at Powell High School to continue exploring the Gospel of John and discovering what the resurrection of Jesus means for your life. You’re invited to come as you are, ask honest questions, and find a community that points to real hope.

📅 Service Time: Sunday at 10:30 AM📍 Location: Powell High School, Powell, TN🙌 Everyone is welcome—bring a friend!