Easter Sunrise Service 2025
Note: Scripture references are from the New International Version of the Bible (NIV) except as noted. This is the full text of the message but certain passages were omitted on the day, for brevity.
Introduction:
Good morning, everyone. My name is John Rains, and I am the pastor of Hope House Ministries, a non-denominational ministry that began in 2001 to support those in need on St. Croix. Today, Hope House Ministries operates as an online ministry, HopeHouse.vi, where, if you wish to review chapter and verse of the scripture used today, you will find this message posted there later on today.
The tagline of Hope House Ministries is “Welcome Home”, a message meant for the lost—for those who may have never had the opportunity to know Christ and for those who have wandered away and are welcomed back into the arms of the church, the body of Christ.
When I speak of “the church,” I am not referring to a building or a denomination, but to the fellowship of believers united in the body of Christ.
So, you may ask why I am here today, speaking the Gospel of Christ? A moment ago, I mentioned those who may have never had the opportunity to know Christ, and those who have wandered away from the church. I’m here to say I also wandered away from God and He pulled me back – almost kicking and screaming, as a petulant child – and today I have nothing but love for God through Christ Jesus, and maybe, if I can know Him, then you can know Him too.
Today is Easter Sunday, also known as Resurrection Sunday, a name that keeps the focus on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its significance in our lives.
For those who may be unfamiliar with the resurrection, Jesus was unjustly accused of blasphemy, a sin punishable by death, because He claimed to be the Son of God and equal with God. He was crucified, and in fulfillment of His own prophecy, rose from the dead on the third day.
Resurrection is a full restoration of body and human identity.
In the gospel of John chapter 14, Jesus says:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas (who we know as Doubting Thomas) said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
So Why Is the Resurrection So Important?
- Jesus’ resurrection proves He is the Son of God: Subsequently everything that He promises us will come to fruition.
- It confirms that His sacrifice was accepted: He has paid the price for our sins, setting us free from its bondage.
- Because Jesus rose from the dead, we now have the promise of resurrection into eternal life. Jesus said: “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that of everything that He has given Me I will lose nothing, but will raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day” (John 6:39-40)
Now, there is a very interesting account given in John 11 an account of Martha, her sister Mary, and their brother Lazarus, who lived in Bethany, near Jerusalem. When Lazarus became ill, his sisters, knowing that Jesus had performed many healing miracles, sent word to Jesus, saying:
“Lord, the one You love is sick.”
Upon hearing this, Jesus responded:
“This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4)
Now Jesus was on the other side of the Jordan river, and by the time He arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been dead for four days. Martha met Jesus, and expressed both grief and faith:
“Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
(John 11:21-27) (continue reading from verses 38-44)
“So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. Jesus said, ‘Remove the stone.’
Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, ‘Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.’
Jesus said to her, ‘Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?’
So they removed the stone. And Jesus raised His eyes and said, ‘Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. But I knew that You always hear Me; nevertheless, because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.’
And when He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’
Out came the man who had died, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go.’”
(John 11:38-44, NASB)
The same power that raised Lazarus from the grave, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, can live in us today.
Paul declares in Romans 8:11:
“And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” (Romans 8:11)
This is the heart of today’s message: the third personality of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
God as the Father we seem to have little difficulty in accepting.
God as the Son we seem to have a little more difficulty with, yet we know Him as “I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Before Abraham, I AM (John 8:58), YHWH, the divine name of God.
But for some reason, we struggle with God as the Holy Spirit, yet we are introduced to Him in the very first book of the Bible “Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.” (Genesis 1:2). From the beginning, the Holy Spirit brings order, life, and purpose.
When Samuel anointed David as king, scripture tells us that “the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David.” (1 Samuel 16:13). The Holy Spirit empowered, guided, and strengthened him for the great calling he had ahead.
The Holy Spirit is not distant or inactive—He is alive and dwelling within those who belong to Christ Jesus, empowering us to walk in resurrection life today. (Romans 8:9-10).
The Holy Spirit as Our Helper
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself speaks about the Holy Spirit as the Helper, saying:
“When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, namely, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father…” (John 15:26, NASB)
Now, the gospel of John was written in Greek, so when we read in English “Helper”, we are presented with the translators best choice for translating Greek to English. The Greek word is Paraklētos, which has multiple meanings, and Helper is a conglomerate of these:
It can mean –
- Advocate – Like a defense attorney standing in our place (1 John 2:1).
- Comforter – Giving peace in troubled times (John 14:27).
- Encourager – Strengthening us when we feel weak (Romans 8:26a).
- Intercessor – Praying for us when we don’t know what to pray (Romans 8:26b).
Paul describes this intercessory role in Romans 8:26-27:
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.”
Have you ever found yourself in times of trouble, wordlessly groaning? That’s amazingly descriptive. There have been countless times in my life when I have been in troubled situations, unable to find the words to pray. In those moments, I have felt the Holy Spirit interceding — wordlessly groaning on my behalf. And time after time, my needs have been met in ways I could never have foreseen.
The Spirit’s Intercession in Our Lives
- “The Spirit helps us in our weakness” – When we feel lost, discouraged, or overwhelmed, the Holy Spirit steps in to strengthen and guide us.
- “We do not know what we ought to pray for” – There are times when our pain is too deep for words, but God understands even our silent struggles.
- “The Spirit Himself intercedes for us” – The Holy Spirit prays on our behalf, bringing our deepest needs before the Father.
- “Through wordless groans” – These are spiritual expressions beyond human language, aligning perfectly with God’s will for our lives.
We are never alone in our prayers – even when we are too broken to speak, the Holy Spirit speaks for us.
The Promise of the Holy Spirit
(Reading from John 14:15-21)
Jesus says:
“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth.
The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.
I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
Before long, the world will not see Me anymore, but you will see Me.
Because I live, you also will live.
On that day you will realize that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you.
Whoever has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me.
The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I too will love them and show Myself to them.”
Let me pick up on the statement “the world cannot accept Him.”
When Jesus speaks about “the world”, He is referring to the fallen, unbelieving system that is opposed to God. It represents the values, mindset, and ways of life that reject God’s truth.
- “The world” represents darkness, sin, unbelief, and opposition to God (John 15:18-19).
- The other side is God’s Kingdom—a realm of light, truth, righteousness, and eternal life (John 3:3; Colossians 1:13).
- The world follows its own desires (1 John 2:15-17).
- The Church follows Christ and seeks His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
- The world hates the truth (John 3:19-20).
- The Church is called to be a light in the darkness (Matthew 5:14-16).
Jesus’ prayer in John 17:15-16 sums it up beautifully:
“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.”
The greatest contrast Jesus makes is between this temporary world and eternal life in Him.
- The world is perishing (1 John 2:17).
- God’s kingdom is everlasting (Daniel 7:14).
- The world offers fleeting pleasures (Matthew 16:26).
- Jesus offers eternal joy and fulfillment (John 10:10).
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Jesus states in John 14:25-26:
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Too often, we overlook or underestimate the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He is not a distant force—He is a powerful, living presence, actively guiding, strengthening, and interceding for us. I believe that as a church, we have, in many ways, neglected the fullness of His power.
Paul speaks of the “Fruit of the Spirit,” a collection of virtues that reflect Christ’s character. These are not behaviors we produce by our own strength but as the result of the Holy Spirit working within us.
Listen carefully and place them in your lives:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
(Galatians 5:22-23
Notice that Paul refers to these nine attributes as “fruit” (singular), not “fruits” (plural)—indicating they are inseparable.
1. Love
In the Bible, there are three Greek words used for love. Philia is used for brotherly love or friendship: Eros is used for physical, romantic love. But this is Agape Love.
Love is the foundation of the Christian life. It is not merely an emotion but a deliberate choice to act in the best interests of others. Agape love is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, mirroring God’s love for us.
- In this manner, Jesus commands us to love God and our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39).
- True Agape love is demonstrated through actions, not just words (1 John 3:18).
- Agape love extends even to our enemies (Luke 6:27).
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” (1 John 3:16)
2. Joy
Joy is a deep inner gladness that is not dependent on circumstances. Unlike temporary happiness, which comes and goes, joy is rooted in our relationship with God and the hope we have in Christ.
- It allows us to rejoice in trials (James 1:2-3).
- The joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10).
- It is a witness to others that Christ transforms lives.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
3. Peace
Peace is the calm assurance that comes from trusting God, even in difficult times. It is a supernatural tranquility that guards our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).
- Jesus the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
- True peace comes from being reconciled with God (Romans 5:1).
- Peace helps us to remain steady in the face of life’s storms (John 14:27).
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
4. Patience (Forbearance)
Patience is endurance and perseverance in times of suffering, hardship, or dealing with difficult people.
- God is patient with sinners, wanting them to repent (2 Peter 3:9).
- Patience waits on God’s timing, even when we don’t understand. (Psalm 27:14)
- It helps us bear with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2).
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” (Psalm 37:7a)
5. Kindness
Kindness is compassion in action—a readiness to encourage, help, and bless others. It is a reflection of God’s own kindness toward us.
- God’s kindness leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).
- We are called to clothe ourselves with kindness (Colossians 3:12).
- It is expressed in tangible ways—words, actions, and generosity.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
6. Goodness
Goodness is moral integrity and a commitment to righteousness. It is choosing to do what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
- Goodness is not just about avoiding sin but actively doing good. (James 4:17)
- Jesus went about doing good and healing others (Acts 10:38).
- We are called to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).
“Let us not grow weary in doing good.” (Galatians 6:9)
7. Faithfulness
Faithfulness means being reliable, trustworthy, and loyal to God – and to others. It is a steadfast commitment to God’s Word, even in adversity.
- God is always faithful to His promises (Lamentations 3:22-23).
- True faithfulness means keeping our word and being dependable. It requires perseverance in trials (2 Timothy 4:7).
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)
8. Gentleness (Meekness)
Gentleness is strength under control. It does not mean weakness, but rather a humble, considerate, and tender spirit that responds to others with grace.
- Jesus described Himself as gentle and humble in heart (Matthew 11:29).
- Gentleness allows us to restore others in love (Galatians 6:1a).
- Gentleness enables us to respond with wisdom instead of anger (Proverbs 15:1).
“Let your gentleness be evident to all.” (Philippians 4:5)
9. Self-Control
Self-control is the discipline to govern our thoughts, speech, emotions, and actions. It allows us to resist temptation and live according to God’s standards.
- It involves control over physical desires (1 Corinthians 9:27).
- It helps us control our speech (James 3:5-6).
- It is essential for spiritual growth (2 Peter 1:5-6).
“A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls. (Proverbs 25:28 ESV)
Conclusion
Paul reminds us:
“Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:23)
These nine qualities are not separate virtues but are interwoven aspects of a Spirit-filled life. We do not develop them by human effort alone, but by walking closely with the Holy Spirit.
How Do We Grow in the Fruit of the Spirit?
- Stay Connected to Christ (John 15:5) – The closer we are to Him, the more we reflect His character.
- Surrender to the Holy Spirit – In prayer, ask Him into your heart. Allow Him to change us from the inside out.
- Practice Daily – Spiritual growth is a process. A daily remembrance that we have invited Him into our hearts because we want that change in our lives.
Final Call to Action:
If you haven’t already accepted Jesus Christ into your life, now is a good time to do so. Let’s ask God to cultivate these qualities in us, so that we may shine His light in a world that desperately needs love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Please join me in Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who works within us to produce fruit that reflects Your character. We confess that we often fall short and try to live in our own strength. Today, we surrender anew to Your Spirit. Cultivate in us love where there is indifference, joy where there is despair, peace where there is chaos. May our lives be a testimony of Your grace and transform those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Benediction:
May the God of peace equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.