He is Risen

Summary

The Jesus Podcast – "He is Risen" (September 11, 2025)

Episode Overview

"He is Risen," an episode of The Jesus Podcast by Pray.com, immerses listeners in the dramatic aftermath of Jesus’ crucifixion, focusing on the emotional journey of his closest female followers as they discover the empty tomb. With thoughtful narration and vivid storytelling, the episode explores grief, doubt, and despair transformed by the hope and promise of the Resurrection. Themes of faith, new beginnings, and the dismantling of social prejudice are woven throughout, offering both theological insight and personal encouragement for listeners to embrace the power of the Resurrection in their own lives.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Opening Reflection and Prayer

[00:00–01:40]

• The episode begins with Mark 16:6: “He said to them, don’t be amazed. You seek Jesus the Nazarene who has been crucified. He is risen. He’s not here. Behold the place where they laid him.”
• Prayer: A powerful invocation thanks Jesus for the Resurrection, noting how it “revolutionizes our faith” and transforms fear into hope.
  • Quote: “Because you have risen, we too can rise above our fears, our challenges, and even the stinging reality of death itself. Empower us to carry this victorious spirit into every aspect of our lives.”

2. Immersive Storytelling: The Path to the Tomb

[01:48–07:18]

• The narrative transports listeners to the early morning after the Sabbath with Mary Magdalene, Mary (mother of James), Salome, and Joanna, as they approach Jesus’ tomb burdened by loss and grief.
• Sensory details: The beauty of the morning is contrasted against the women’s emotional desolation—“The brilliant hues…were invisible to them. The earth was gray and undefined…Everything was made blurry with grief.”
• The steadfastness of these women is highlighted, as they had remained at the crucifixion, unlike many disciples who fled.

3. Mary Magdalene’s Inner Turmoil

[07:18–08:18]

• An intimate look at Mary Magdalene’s pain and anxiety post-Jesus, particularly her deep fear of returning to her former life of torment.
  • Quote (Mary Magdalene): “What if they come back?” [07:50]
  • Quote: “Without Jesus, I might slip back into the darkness.” [08:13]
• The solidarity and compassion of the other women provide her comfort as they continue toward the tomb.

4. The Angel’s Appearance & The Good News

[08:34–11:22]

• A suspenseful and dramatic recounting of the supernatural encounter:
  • The women notice the stone rolled away and light coming from inside the tomb.
  • The angel, described as “like the scattering of lightning,” reassures them:
    • Quote (Angel): “Do not be afraid…You have come to see Jesus of Nazareth, the one who was crucified, have you not?...He is not here. Come and see for yourself.” [09:09–10:15]
  • The women find the tomb empty except for grave clothes.
  • The angel tells them to inform the disciples, emphasizing Peter, and disappears as suddenly as he appeared.

5. The Women’s Transformation and Urgency

[11:22–13:30]

• The women, initially paralyzed by fear and grief, are invigorated by hope as they realize Jesus has risen.
  • The world transforms from gray to vibrant as “life, light, and hope were reborn in their hearts and the world.”
• The urgency and importance of telling the disciples is underscored.

6. Theological Reflection: The Meaning of the Resurrection

[15:30–19:15]

• Host provides analysis and personal application:
  • God chooses outcasts and marginalized individuals—women and shepherds—as key witnesses, highlighting the dignity and value of every person.
  • The episode draws parallels with Mary Magdalene’s fear of losing her newfound purpose and emphasizes that Jesus’ redemptive power is eternal, not fleeting.
  • Quote (Host): “In the kingdom of God there are no second class citizens. We are all equal at the foot of the cross and the empty tomb.” [16:21]
  • The narrative is a “vivid metaphor” for personal transformation through faith; the Resurrection colors our world with hope, even if circumstances haven’t changed.

7. Closing Message and Takeaways

[19:15–end]

• Encouragement to live as “Easter people,” letting the hope of the Resurrection transform our perspective on life’s difficulties.
• Teaser for the next episode, where Mary’s story of tragedy and restoration continues.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Opening Prayer:
  • “Because you have risen, we too can rise above our fears, our challenges, and even the stinging reality of death itself. Empower us to carry this victorious spirit into every aspect of our lives.” [00:45]
• Mary Magdalene’s Fear:
  • “What if they come back?” [07:50]
  • “Without Jesus, I might slip back into the darkness.” [08:13]
• The Angel’s Announcement:
  • “Do not be afraid…He is not here. Come and see for yourself. He is not in the place where they laid him.” [09:15–10:18]
  • “He has risen. All the women looked up at the angel.” [11:18]
• Transformation:
  • “…the Resurrection changed everything, filling the world around them with color and endless possibilities.” [15:58]
• Dismantling Barriers:
  • “The Lord elevates the voices of the marginalized and affirms the dignity and worth of every human being…In the kingdom of God there are no second class citizens.” [16:21]
• Personal Application:
  • “Let the joy and hope of the empty tomb color your world today. He is risen. He is risen indeed.” [19:10]

---

Important Timestamps

• [00:00–01:40] — Bible reading and opening prayer
• [01:48–07:18] — Grieving women approach the tomb
• [07:18–08:18] — Mary Magdalene’s inner struggle and fear
• [08:34–11:22] — The angel’s appearance, message, and reaction of the women
• [11:22–13:30] — The women run to tell the disciples, experiencing a shift from despair to hope
• [15:30–19:15] — Host reflects on the meaning of the Resurrection and equality in God’s kingdom
• [19:10] — Final blessings and episode close

---

Structure & Tone

• The episode blends dramatic narration, emotional storytelling, and reflective commentary.
• Language is reverent, compassionate, and accessible—balancing biblical fidelity with modern spiritual insight.
• Quotes and dialogue maintain the emotional intensity and immediacy of the scriptural scene.

---

Summary

"He is Risen" is a masterful retelling of the Resurrection that centers on the profound grief and ultimate hope experienced by Jesus’ women followers. Through immersive storytelling and thoughtful reflection, the episode affirms that the Resurrection is not only the pivotal event of Christianity but an ever-present reality for believers—inviting every listener to embrace hope, transformation, and dignity, no matter their past or present struggles. This episode is an uplifting resource for anyone seeking encouragement or a deeper connection to the heart of the Christian faith.

Transcript

[Narrator]

He said to them, don't be amazed. You seek Jesus the Nazarene who has been crucified. He is risen. He's not here. Behold the place where they laid him. Mark 16:6. Dear Lord Jesus, the message of the Resurrection revolutionizes our faith. The fact that you rose from the grave elevates us from a mere philosophy to a living hope. Because you have risen, we too can rise above our fears, our challenges, and even the stinging reality of death itself empower us to carry this victorious spirit into every aspect of our lives. When we face difficulties that seem insurmountable, remind us that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is. Is at work in us. When we encounter despair, let this eternal truth light our way. Jesus is risen, and so hope rises in us. Thank you for your resurrection, a truth so magnificent it changes the landscape of our faith. May we live as Easter people in perpetual celebration of your victory over death and the glorious life it grants us. In your holy name we pray. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast, where we bring the gospel to life like you've never heard it before. Stay with us to delve into the captivating journey of Christ's story. If this podcast has brought value to your faith, we'd love it if you left a review and shared it with a friend. We want the story of Jesus to be known throughout the world because when Jesus story is told, lives are transformed. The dawn's rays spread elegantly across the garden. Birds sang in harmony with the light's brilliance, and all seemed at peace. The hearts of Jesus followers, however, were far from peace. Darkness loomed over them, sucking the joy out of the day, making it hard to even breathe. With somber steps, four of Jesus closest followers walked the path to the garden's entrance. The brilliant hues of green and newly blooming flowers were invisible to them. The earth was gray and undefined to them. Everything was made blurry with grief. Mary, the mother of James, Salome and Joanna, trudged wearily towards the tomb. They had brought an array of spices and flowers to anoint Jesus body. Many of the disciples had hidden and run when Jesus was crucified, but not them. They watched every grueling moment of his death. The memory of their Lord hanging and bloodied on a cross, was etched into their memories. Every time they closed their eyes, scenes of his flogging flooded back into their minds. His death grieved them beyond belief. They had put all their hope in him. And now their hope was buried in a grave alongside him.

[Advertiser 1]

You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own, with a job in home care. These jobs offer flexible schedules, healthcare, retirement options and free training. They also provide paid time off and opportunities for overtime. Visit oregonhomecarejobs.com to learn more and apply. That's oregonhomecarejobs.com Time for a sofa upgrade? Visit washablesofas.com and discover Annabe where designer style meets budget friendly prices with sofas starting at $699, Annabe brings you the ultimate in furniture innovation with a modular design that allows you to rearrange your space effortlessly. Perfect for both small and large spaces, Annabe is the only machine washable sofa inside and out. Say goodbye to stains and messes with liquid and stain resistant fabrics that make cleaning easy. Liquid simply slides right off. Designed for custom comfort, our high resilience foam lets you turn choose between a sink and feel or a supportive memory foam blend. Plus our pet friendly stain resistant fabrics ensure your sofa stays beautiful for years. Don't compromise quality for price. Visit washablesofas.com to upgrade your living space today with no risk returns and a 30 day money back guarantee. Get up to 60% off plus free shipping and free returns. Shop now at washablesofas.com Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Cough and cold season is coming, so make sure you're prepared and stock up on your family's favorite personal wellness products. Now through October 7th. Shop in store and online for savings on products like Mucinex, Kickstart Combo, Zyrtec Allergy Relief Tablets or liquid gels, Halls, cough drops and Mucinex Fast day and night so you and your family are armed and ready for the season ahead. Offerings October 7th restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Host]

Have you ever felt stuck in darkness? Have you ever felt hopeless, like the world has lost all its color and joy? We've all experienced despair at some point in our lives, but there is no darkness so dense that the light of Jesus can't pierce through. This is the Jesus Podcast, and we're spending a month of April immersing ourselves in the events following Easter. We want to hear how the Resurrection transformed Jesus followers from faithless and fearful to faithful and fearless. As we follow along this epic tale, perhaps we will also discover a bit of courage and boldness to live a life in light of the Resurrection. If this podcast has blessed you, consider writing us a review to share your experience. We would love to hear from you. Today we walk down the dusty trail leading to the empty tomb of Jesus, where Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Salome, and Joanna come to pay their respects to Jesus. These four followers of Jesus are overcome with grief. Understandably, although the sun is shining brightly and the garden is teeming with life, everything seems gray and lifeless to them. They, like many who have yet to experience life in Jesus, are caught in a cycle of despair. These faithful companions are about to be visited by an angel and given the most hopeful message humanity has ever heard. He is risen. Let's dive back into our story. Afterwards, we will unpack some of its meaning together and discover how we can live in light of the Resurrection.

[Narrator]

The four companions walked the dirt path leading to the tomb. Mary Magdalene in particular, was inconsolable. She was lost without Jesus, caught in a sea of heartbreak and wounds from her past. As the four companions walked toward his tomb, her heart grew heavier and heavier. She stopped in her tracks as they approached the entrance to the garden. She was frozen in place, hands shaking from fear.

[Advertiser 1]

What if they come back?

[Narrator]

She whispered, referring to the demons Jesus cast out of her. Seven times she was alone and lost before Christ came and redeemed her. He cast her tormentors out and gave her a life of purpose. But without him, she feared the worst.

[Advertiser 1]

Without Jesus, I might slip back into the darkness.

[Narrator]

The other two women put their arms around her, silently affirming her fears while doing their best to comfort her. They descended the dirt path, unable to appreciate the chirping birds and the scent of freshly blooming jasmine.

[Advertiser 1]

What if they don't let us attend him?

[Narrator]

Mary asked, concerned the guards may not.

[Advertiser 1]

Allow us to see him. And what then will our master go without a proper burial?

[Narrator]

They will not turn us away, joanna said with a heavy, laden sigh. She was one of the maidens who had served the house of Pilate. With that came a modicum of dignity. No guard would keep her from honoring her master, not after everything that had happened. I will make sure of it, she said firmly. The women rounded the corner near an olive grove. That is when a great wind whistled through the trees, shaking leaves and olives from what was that? Joanna asked curiously. The wind shifted again, blowing from where the tomb resided. Something's wrong, joanna said, gesturing to the nearby tomb. The stone covering the entrance was rolled away, and a light radiated from within. The atmosphere changed around them, and it was as if the trees whispered a sweet secret to them through the wind. They quickened toward the tomb. But their strides were interrupted when the earth shook beneath them. Then, like a flash of lightning before them, an angel appeared in splendor. He had the appearance of a young man dressed in white, but his countenance was like the scattering of lightning. Although he wore a smile, there was something inhuman and terrifying about him. The women recoiled, with Mary, the mother of James, putting her arms out to protect the others. Do not be afraid, the angel told them with his hands, gesturing for them to be at ease. You have come to see Jesus of Nazareth, the one who was crucified, have you not? The women nodded with uncertainty. The angel's presence was palpable, and it felt like the ground beneath them was pulsating with power. The angel's position shifted instantly, and he sat on top of a stone beside the tomb. He gestured to the entrance and said, he is not here. Come and see for yourself. He is not in the place where they laid him. The women rushed to look inside. The angel was right. Jesus body was gone, and all that remained were the grave clothes folded neatly on the stone bed. Mary Magdalene fell to her knees, and Joanna held her face.

[Advertiser 1]

Where is he?

[Narrator]

Joanna asked with bated breath. The angel's position shifted again with lightning speed. He was right beside them this time, standing over them with great intensity. He stood two feet above them, and his eyes revealed a depth of divine knowledge. He has risen. All the women looked up at the angel. The divine being pointed to the road. Hurry back and tell the disciples what I have told you, for he is returning soon to Galilee. You will see him just as I have told you. As the women turned to leave, the angel stopped them and said, and be sure to tell Peter. With that final word, the angel disappeared again in lightning. The four companions wasted no time. They dropped their baskets and ran up the dirt road of the garden. Fear, exhilaration, and anxiety battled within them. Yet a burning passion drove them forward to tell the others. For four days, the followers of Jesus had wallowed in a shadow of regret and confusion. But perhaps there was hope. Maybe this beautiful and strange event is what he had been telling them would happen all along. Uncertainty weighed down every thought. Doubt and wonder swirled through their minds as they raced to where the disciples hid. They ran, and with every step they were more convinced that the angelic figure was correct. Jesus had risen. As they ran, the green and yellow hues of the trees came into view, and the sound of songbirds flooded their hearts. The world was no longer dark and gray to them. Life, light, and hope were reborn in their hearts and the world.

[Ryan Seacrest]

You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own with a job in home care. These jobs offer flexible schedules, health care, retirement options and free training. They also provide paid time off and opportunities for overtime. Visit oregonhomecarejobs.com to learn more and apply.

[Host]

That's oregonhomecarejobs.com.

[Advertiser 1]

Let'S be real Life happens. Kids spill, pets shed and accidents are inevitable. Find a sofa that can keep [e-mail] Starting at just $699, our sofas are fully machine washable inside and out so you can say goodbye to stains and hello to worry free living. Made with liquid and stain resistant fabrics, they're kid proof, pet friendly and built for everyday life. Plus, changeable fabric covers let you refresh your sofa whenever you want. Need flexibility? Our modular design lets you rearrange your sofa anytime to fit your space, whether it's a growing family room or a cozy apartment. Plus, they're earth friendly and trusted by over 200,000 happy customers. It's time to upgrade to a stress free, mess proof sofa. Visit washablesofas.com today and save that's washablesofas.com offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway Cough and cold season is coming, so make sure you're prepared and stock up on your family's favorite personal wellness products now through October 7th. Shop in store and online for savings on products like Mucinex, Kickstart Combo, Zyrtec Allergy Relief Tablets or liquid gels, hulls, cough drops and Mucinex Fast day and night so you and your family are armed and ready for the season ahead. Offer ends October 7th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Host]

God chose these women to be the first witnesses of the most transformative event in human history. They were the first to hear the angelic declaration, he is risen. They were the first to experience the inexplicable joy and wonder that comes from encountering an empty tomb where the body should have lain. This event was no doubt a beautiful example of how God dismantles social prejudice by intelligence, entrusting these women with the first gospel message, Jesus is alive. You see, during this time, women were not considered reliable witnesses. They weren't even allowed to testify in court. This is a sad reality of the time. However, it highlights God's plan to dismantle social prejudice. This event is a beautiful example of how God dismantles social and societal barriers. He entrusted these women with the gospel message. Jesus is alive. He has broken down these barriers before. Do you remember the first eyewitness of the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem were just lowly shepherds, largely considered outcasts in their time. But God gave them the precious testimony of his Son's birth. The Lord elevates the voices of the marginalized and affirms the dignity and worth of every human being. It's an important reminder that in the kingdom of God there are no second class citizens. We are all equal at the foot of the cross in the empty tomb. This episode also showcases Mary Magdalene's fear and grief. She was a woman from whom Jesus had cast out seven demons. We know this from reading the Book of Mark and the Book of Luke. Our story today vividly captures her dread of reverting back to a life controlled by demons, a life devoid of transformative power. Her grief was not just about loss. It was tied to her identity, her newfound purpose in Jesus, and most of all, her freedom from her demons. Many of us have parts of our lives where Jesus has set us free. And the thought of losing that can be deeply unsettling. But the Resurrection reminds us that Jesus power to redeem us, to cleanse us and to make us whole is not just a momentary event. It's an eternal reality. Something incredible happened as the women fled the garden to deliver the angel's message. The world was no longer dark and gray to them. The Resurrection changed everything, filling the world around them with color and endless possibilities. It wasn't that their circumstances had immediately changed. It was that their perspective had been radically altered. This serves as a vivid metaphor for what happens to us when we truly grasp the significance of the Resurrection. Life's troubles don't magically disappear, but we now see it as temporary, set against the backdrop and of eternal victory. The world is no longer a maze without an exit. It's a journey towards a glorious destination. As we contemplate these themes, let's remember that the Resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event or a biblical fairy tale. It's not just something that happened 2,000 years ago. And it's not just something we celebrate on Easter. It's the linchpin of our faith, the reason we have hope, the reassurance of who we are and that we follow a God who conquered death. For every Mary Magdalene burdened by her past, for every voice marginalized and silenced by society, and for anyone looking at a seemingly gray and lifeless world, the Resurrection brings a message of hope, dignity and boundless possibilities. Let the joy and hope of the empty tomb color your world today. He is risen. He is risen indeed. In our next episode, we are going to highlight the tragedy of Mary and the restoration that comes afterwards. Thank you for joining me today on the Jesus Podcast. If you want to support this podcast, be sure to follow, subscribe and share. That way the entire world can hear these transformative gospel messages. For more prayers, devotions and epic Biblical stories, download the pray.com app today. God Bless.

[Advertiser 1]

Tired of spills and stains on your sofa? WashablesOfAs.com has your back Featuring the Annabe Collection, the only designer sofa that's machine washable inside and out. Where designer quality meets budget friendly prices. That's right, sofas start at just $699. Enjoy a no risk experience with Pet Friendly stain resistant and changeable slipcovers made with performance fabrics. Experience cloud like comfort with high resilience foam that's hypoallergenic and never needs fluffing. The sturdy steel frame ensures longevity and the modular pieces can be rearranged anytime. Check out washablesofas.com and get up to 60% off your Anna Bay sofa backed by a 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not absolutely in love, send it back for a full refund. No return shipping or restocking fees. Every penny back Upgrade [e-mail] Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. Every day has a to do list, but adding Enjoy Belvita to yours can help you knock out the rest of it. Belvita Breakfast Biscuits are a tasty and convenient breakfast option when paired with low fat yogurt and fruit that provide steady energy all morning while Belvita Energy Snack Bites give you the perfect mid morning refuel. Best part? They both taste great, so make the most out of your morning with a bite of Belvita. Pick up a pack of Belvita at your local store today. Does friendly have a taste? If it does, it's probably like hello's Peppermint flavored Anti Plaque and Whitening toothpaste. Brush away plaque, show tartar who's boss and remove surface stains to naturally whiten. Hello's thoughtful and flavor forward products make brushing your teeth feel like a confetti filled bathroom dance party. So say hello to hello with the always cruelty free Never tested on Animals toothpaste that's made to spread smiles. Visit helloproducts.com and let hello add some everyday yay into your life. This is an I heart podcast.