Evidences of the Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is the core of Christianity. Let’s consider the evidence for this important event

The Empty Tomb

The enemies of Jesus were concerned that the disciples might fake the resurrection and so the tomb was secured - Matthew 27:64-65

Matthew 27:64–65 NIV

So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first.” “Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.”

The resurrection - Matthew 28:2-4

Matthew 28:2–4 NIV

There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

The invitation to examine the tomb - Matthew 28:5-7

Matthew 28:5–7 NIV

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

All investigations of the resurrection must begin by answering the question, “Where is Jesus’ body?”

Undeniable Appearances

Jesus’ appearance to the disciples - John 20:19-20

John 20:19–20 NIV

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Jesus’ appearance to Thomas - John 20:24-28

John 20:24–28 NIV

Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Other appearances of Jesus - 1 Corinthians 15:4-8

1 Corinthians 15:4–8 NIV

that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.

Transformed Disciples

The transformation of James & Peter

Before the resurrection:

James was a brother of Jesus - Mark 6:3

Mark 6:3 NIV

Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

The brothers of Jesus did not believe in Him - John 7:5

John 7:5 NIV

For even his own brothers did not believe in him.

Peter was an impulsive and fearful man

Peter impulsively cut off the ear of the temple guard - John 18:10

John 18:10 NIV

Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)

The Impact of the resurrection

Jesus appeared to James - 1 Corinthians 15:7

1 Corinthians 15:7 NIV

Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles,

Jesus also appeared to Peter and forgave Him after the resurrection in John 21

After the resurrection

In Acts 2, Peter is clearly the leader of the disciples

In Acts 12 we also see Peter courageously proclaiming the Gospel in the face of great danger

We also see Peter recommending James to the believers - Acts 12:17

Acts 12:17 NIV

Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. “Tell James and the other brothers and sisters about this,” he said, and then he left for another place.

James is also influential in resolving the Jerusalem council in Acts 15

Paul recognized Peter and James as pillars of the church in Gal. 2:9

Galatians 2:9 NIV

James, Cephas and John, those esteemed as pillars, gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship when they recognized the grace given to me. They agreed that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised.