Why was the resurrection of Christ an event so seismic and transformative that it remains relevant for all time? Because the resurrection of Jesus changed the course of eternal life and death for all humanity.
History students report that the Romans were known for their brutality. Their scourgings often tore flesh and exposed bone and underlying tissue due to the metal, glass, and stone, which were usually attached to the many strips of rope or leather whips.
Often, the beatings were so brutal that the blows from the whips would disfigure the person’s back, legs, stomach, upper chest, and face. Historical records even describe instances where those beaten by the Romans would end up with their spine exposed. Therefore, it is understandable that many people died from the scourging before they were ever jailed or crucified.
Proof 1) Christ Dies - A Summary of Historical Brutality:
Records from that time explain that the Roman soldiers beat Christ to the point of death. When they commenced the scourging, they placed a crown of thorns on Jesus’ head and forced Him to carry His cross. The soldiers then nailed Christ to the cross, where He died one of the most painful and cruel deaths imaginable, the crucifixion death of the cross. The Bible explains that Jesus died before Pilate (the ruler who ordered His death) expected (Mark 15:44). However, understanding the brutality Jesus suffered before the crucifixion explains why He died more quickly than others who were crucified.
Proof 2) Proof of Christ’s Death:
To make sure Jesus was dead, a soldier pierced His side with a spear and witnessed the blood and water pouring out from the wound (John 19:31-37). Medically, when someone dies, the blood separates to sediment, the heavier red cells sinking to the bottom, leaving a much lighter, straw-colored fluid, the plasma (or water).
These details underscore the historical reality that Jesus did die an agonizing death on the cross. After His death, Jesus’ body was placed in a tomb guarded by soldiers and blocked with a huge stone. Pilate wanted to make sure Jesus’ body wasn’t stolen or removed. However, on the third day, He arose.
Proof 3) Christ Existed After Death - The Empty Tomb and Resurrection Appearances:
But why is one man’s death and His empty tomb so important all these years later? Because the empty tomb defies all alternative explanations and is a powerful indicator that something extraordinary happened in history!
Proof 4) Proof of the Resurrection:
The Gospels and Paul’s letters document numerous post-resurrection appearances of Jesus. These encounters range from intimate moments, with individuals like Mary Magdalene and the disciples with and without Thomas, to larger groups, such as the five hundred followers Paul mentions in 1 Corinthians 15:6.
Skeptics, who argue against the resurrection, propose a mass psychosis or deception by the disciples. Yet, the tomb was blocked with a huge stone and guarded around the clock. Therefore, the lack of a physical body disproves and weakens these objections. The post-resurrection accounts in biblical and non-biblical texts prove Christ’s existence after death.
But why is Jesus’ Resurrection important to your life today?
Christ came, died on the cross, and rose again on the third day so that we would not suffer eternal separation from God. But He also came to set right and restore everything sin (wrong-doings) has broken.
Still skeptical? Check out the many historical sources documenting Christ’s death and resurrection:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is supported by a range of historical documents, primarily found in the Gospels and the letters of Paul in the New Testament. These texts describe multiple appearances of the risen Jesus to various individuals and groups, including Mary Magdalene, the disciples (both with and without Thomas), and a gathering of five hundred followers mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:6. These biblical accounts are supplemented by historical details about Roman brutality, particularly their scourging practices, which align with the severity of Jesus’ suffering before the crucifixion.
Additionally, the Jewish Scriptures, formed over a thousand years by various authors, predicted Jesus’ coming in great detail. These Scriptures encompassed 39 books written over centuries, adding a broader historical and religious context to Jesus’ life and teachings. Jesus even references Moses’ writings, which foretold of His coming. (John 5:46). This connection to established Jewish texts suggests a broader historical and religious context for Jesus’ life and teachings, further proving that He rose from the dead. Or look at it this way: multiple unfriendly authors from both Jewish and Roman sources refer to Jesus of Nazareth as being who He said He was. Jewish people referred to Jesus as a magician –not meaning to but confirming that Jesus did perform miracles—even though it wasn’t part of His trial. In addition, the Romans noted that Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate, confirming parts of the Gospel accounts. Then, Josephus stated that Jesus’ followers affirmed Christ to be alive, supporting the Gospel accounts of the resurrection. What would cause multiple unfriendly authors from both Jewish and Roman sources to confirm these facts about Jesus of Nazareth?
As we consider the empty tomb, the resurrection appearances, and the origin of the Christian faith, one can only conclude that all other explanations pale compared to the resurrection of Jesus, the only account that makes sense.
The Disciples’ Willingness to Die - A Testimony of Conviction:
Finally, the disciples were willing to die for Jesus and His teachings. Before the resurrection, the disciples were fearful and uncertain. They scattered for safety reasons after witnessing Jesus’ crucifixion. They feared their own deaths. However, after Jesus’ resurrection, they were filled with newfound courage despite facing persecution and potential martyrdom. They boldly preached about Jesus and His teachings.
What would cause such a change in the face of potential death and suffering? It was the resurrection of Christ! Their readiness to endure hardship and even death came from their belief in the resurrection of their Savior. Many, including the apostles, chose martyrdom rather than recant Christ’s resurrection. This profound commitment came from knowing the truth. People will sacrifice themselves for something they deeply believe in, but they will not die for a lie. And that is what we see with the disciples.
In addition, the early Christian Church multiplied during this time despite persecution from Jewish and Roman authorities. This suggests the disciples’ unwavering conviction in Christ’s resurrection and their effectiveness in conveying this belief, which led to the incredible spread of Christianity.
These four proofs are evidence that something amazing and transformative happened at the resurrection. We would love to discuss any questions you may have.