Did Jesus Rise from the Dead? Biblical Evidence for the Resurrection of Christ
Posted on May 18, 2025 • Young Pastor Blog
Introduction
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. If Jesus truly rose from the dead, it confirms His divinity, the truth of the gospel, and the hope of eternal life. If not, then, as the Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:14, “our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.”
1. The Biblical Testimony of the Resurrection
The New Testament presents the resurrection as a literal, physical event witnessed by many:
- Matthew 28 – The angel announces that Jesus is risen; He appears to the women and disciples.
- Luke 24 – Jesus walks with two disciples to Emmaus, eats with them, and appears to the eleven.
- John 20–21 – Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene, Thomas, and later to seven disciples by the Sea of Galilee.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3–8 – Paul summarizes the gospel, stating Jesus appeared to over 500 people, many still alive when he wrote.
R.C. Sproul writes, “The resurrection is God’s vindication of His Son. It is the Father’s loud declaration: ‘This is My Son in whom I am well pleased.’”
2. Historical Evidence Supporting the Resurrection
Even non-Christian historians and scholars agree on some basic facts:
- Jesus died by Roman crucifixion
- The tomb was found empty
- The disciples sincerely believed Jesus rose
- Many early Christians were willing to die for this belief
Historian Gary Habermas points out that “even skeptical scholars accept these minimal facts.” The best explanation of these facts is that Jesus actually rose from the dead.
3. A Reformed Understanding of the Resurrection
Reformed theology affirms the resurrection as both historical and essential. John Calvin stated:
“It was of the greatest importance that Christ should prove Himself risen from the dead; for if He had only died, we would still be in death.”
Our justification, hope, and union with Christ all depend on His resurrection (see Romans 4:25 and Colossians 3:1).
4. Answering Common Objections
“Maybe the disciples stole the body.”
But why would they die for something they knew was a lie? The disciples were transformed from fearful men into bold preachers of the risen Christ.
“Maybe Jesus didn’t really die.”
Roman execution was brutal and thorough. The spear in His side (John 19:34) confirmed His death. The idea He revived in the tomb is historically implausible.
“Maybe they hallucinated.”
Hallucinations are individual. Jesus appeared to groups, ate food, and invited physical touch. This was no vision — it was a bodily resurrection.
5. Why the Resurrection Matters
The resurrection is not just a past event — it has present and eternal implications:
- Assurance of Forgiveness: Jesus’ resurrection proves our sins were paid in full (Romans 4:25).
- Power for New Life: The same power that raised Christ works in believers (Ephesians 1:19–20).
- Hope Beyond the Grave: Because He lives, we will live also (John 14:19).
Conclusion
The empty tomb is not a legend or a metaphor — it is a historical and spiritual reality that changes everything. Jesus Christ is risen indeed!
Trust Him. Worship Him. Live in the power of His resurrection.
Have questions or want to explore more? Visit our Contact Page or comment below. Subscribe for more gospel-centered answers!