Did Jesus Rise from the Dead?

When he was younger, my brother-in-law once got a hole in one at the local golf course in the country town where he lived. His family believe him. And I believe him. Problem being no-one actually saw it happen!

Thankfully, when it comes to Jesus’ resurrection we have far more solid grounds for belief than my poor brother-in-law and his hole in one.

In 1 Corinthians 15:6 Paul, a man who had violently opposed Jesus but later came to trust in him, writes that Jesus appeared to more than 500 people at one time – the majority of whom were still alive when Paul wrote and therefore available to confirm that what he claimed was indeed true.

Another compelling proof is the empty tomb. Despite their desire otherwise, the Jewish leadership at the time conceded that Jesus’ tomb was indeed empty. Their questions revolved around how it had happened rather than whether it had happened. Jesus’ opponents could easily have produced the body when his followers began to proclaim the resurrection – but they never did.

One of the most compelling proofs is the transformation that occurred in Jesus’ followers. Who would be willing to die for a lie? Of his twelve disciples, eleven died a martyr’s death on the basis of his resurrection.

If you would like to consider the biblical accounts for yourself check out: Matthew 28Mark 16:1-8Luke 24John 2021, and 1 Corinthians 15.