4/5/26 - John 16:19-20; 20:11-18 - "Ain't Nobody Crying" - David Rountree

·43 min·4 clips

After studying all 27 New Testament references to the cross, the preacher found not a single one carries a tone of sorrow.

David Rountree opens by noting the blessing of 227 young people in the church and their leadership in worship. He reads John 16:19-20, where Jesus predicts weeping turning to joy, and John 20:11-18, detailing Mary Magdalene's encounter at the tomb. Rountree shares his research into all 27 New Testament references to the cross, finding none carry a tone of sorrow, which challenges common depictions. He connects this to Jesus' prophecy that tears would become joy, asking why Good Friday is called 'good' due to its victorious outcome. The preacher examines Mary's weeping, noting she is asked 'Why are you weeping?' twice, by angels and Jesus, indicating her misunderstanding. He explains that the stone was rolled away so witnesses could see in, not for Jesus to exit, as he later walks through locked doors. Rountree discusses how the disciples didn't understand the resurrection until after it happened, and believers today should celebrate it. He references 1 Corinthians 1:17-18 to critique preachers who focus on eloquence over the cross's power. The sermon highlights that Mary expected a dead body to anoint, but found none, leading to her distress. Rountree cites Hebrews 4:12 and 1 Peter 1:23-25 to describe the Bible as a living, abiding word through which Jesus speaks. He notes only 20% of American believers view the Bible as inerrant, linking this to a lack of engagement with Christ's living voice. The preacher argues Christ is not dishonored but respected and worshipped, as shown in Revelation 5:5-13 where multitudes honor the slain Lamb. He emphasizes Christ is not dethroned but ruling, referencing Daniel 7 and 2 Corinthians 5:16 on seeing Christ beyond the flesh. A practical illustration involves a child scared in a storm, with Rountree asserting that Jesus, who controls the storm, is better than human comfort. The sermon concludes that Easter should inspire praise, not tears, except for repentance, and ends with a prayer for those weeping to turn to Jesus.

As heard by us

A focused resurrection sermon shaped by Mary hearing Jesus call her name.

This single-episode review follows a sermon built around the tension between promised joy and the tears of those who have not yet recognized the resurrection.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Press play when you want Mary's tears at the tomb turned toward joy as the risen Jesus says her name.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from New Covenant Church Sermons