10 Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ

1.       A public execution ensured His death. Jesus’ execution was witnessed by hundreds of people. There was no question that he died an agonizing death in the presence of those who condemned him, those who loved him, and at the hands of professional executioners.

2.       A high official secured the grave site. Joseph of Arimathea offered his own grave site for Jesus’ body. Joseph was one of Counsel of Sanhedrin that condemned Jesus to death.

3.       In spite of guards, the grave was found empty. Jesus’ grave was guarded by Roman Legionaries, professional soldiers of the time, who knew that to fail in their job as a guard was to die.

4.       His apostles were dramatically changed. Doubters, deniers, and apostles who were fearful of death became fearless proclaimers of the risen Christ, who were now willing to suffer and die.

5.       Many people claimed to have seen Him alive. The Apostles John and Paul indicate when they wrote their letters that many people still alive then had seen the risen Christ.

6.       Jewish believers changed their day of worship. The Friday evening/Saturday Sabbath was a foundation of Jewish culture. To set this practice aside to instead, worship on the day of Jesus’ resurrection, was no small thing.

7.       Witnesses were willing to die for their faith. People may die unknowingly for a lie, but no one dies for something they know is a lie. The Christians were willing to die for what they knew was true.

8.       Although it was unexpected, it was clearly predicted. Not only was Jesus’ death predicted by the Hebrew Prophets, but Jesus himself predicted his own death and resurrection in all four Gospel accounts.

9.       It was a fitting climax to a miraculous life. Not only was it a fitting climax for someone who, even according to non-Christian accounts, demonstrated miraculous powers and healings. It was also a fitting climax to someone who claimed to be the divine Son of God, was put to death for alleged blasphemy, and the resurrection is God’s affirmation of Jesus Christ’s status.

10.   It fits the experience of those who trust him. The resurrection power that raised Jesus from the dead has transformed the lives of countless people, and is something we can experience today.

Bibliography:

Day of Discovery: 10 Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Christ video. 1992. RBC Ministries. Grand Rapids MI.