Suggested Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Relate the following story told by Elder James M. Paramore:

“Many years ago … a writer for a newspaper was asked an important question, ‘What would be the most important news the world could receive?’ ”

Elder Paramore continued: “[The writer] thought and thought about the question, he talked to many people, and read all he could in an effort to find an answer for himself. And finally, he printed his answer, ‘To know that Jesus Christ lives today would be the most important news the world could receive. In fact, if He lives today, then we too will live eternally as He said’ ” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 80; or Ensign, Nov. 1990, 64).

Display the pictures listed in the “Preparation” section. Explain that the disciples’ sorrow at Christ’s death was replaced with unspeakable joy at his Resurrection. We too can rejoice in the knowledge that Christ was resurrected.

Leave the pictures on display. Refer to them at appropriate points in the lesson.

Scripture Discussion and Application

As you teach the following scripture passages, discuss with class members how their knowledge of the Resurrection affects their daily lives. Rather than trying to determine the exact order of events surrounding the Resurrection (each Gospel writer gives a slightly different order), focus on the testimonies of the Resurrection given in each Gospel account.

1. Mary Magdalene and other women are witnesses of the resurrected Lord.

Discuss Matthew 28:1–15; Luke 24:1–12; and John 20:1–10. Invite class members to read selected verses aloud. Explain that after Jesus was crucified, his body was wrapped in clean linen cloths and placed in a tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea, one of Jesus’ disciples (Matthew 27:57–60; Luke 23:50–53; John 19:38–42). This was done quickly because the Sabbath was about to begin. The morning after the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and other women returned to the tomb with spices and ointments to more thoroughly anoint and embalm Jesus’ body.

2. Two disciples on the road to Emmaus are witnesses of the resurrected Lord.

Discuss Luke 24:13–35. Have the assigned class member summarize the scripture passage.

3. The Apostles are witnesses of the resurrected Lord.

Read and discuss selected verses from Matthew 28:16–20; Luke 24:33–53; and John 20:19–31.

4. Some of the Apostles see Jesus again at the Sea of Tiberias (Sea of Galilee).

Read and discuss selected verses from John 21.

Conclusion

Testify that Jesus Christ was resurrected and that because of him we will also be resurrected. Bear testimony of the strength and comfort that your knowledge of the Resurrection has brought you.