The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in Christianity. It is the foundation of the Christian faith and serves as a testament to the power and love of God. The account of Jesus’ resurrection can be found in several books in the Bible, but one book stands out as the primary source for this important event: the Gospel of Matthew.
The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew was one of the twelve apostles and a tax collector before he became a follower of Jesus Christ. He wrote his gospel to primarily address Jewish readers, to convince them that Jesus was indeed their long-awaited Messiah. In Matthew’s account, he provides a detailed description of the events leading up to and following Jesus’ resurrection.
The Resurrection Story
Matthew’s account begins with Mary Magdalene and another Mary visiting Jesus’ tomb on the third day after his crucifixion. They discovered that the tomb was empty, and an angel appeared to them, telling them that Jesus had risen from the dead. The women then encountered Jesus himself on their way back from the tomb.
Matthew 28:5-7 (NIV) says: “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”.'”
After encountering Jesus on their way back, they told his disciples what had happened, and he later appeared to them as well. In Matthew’s account, he emphasizes that this event fulfilled prophecy from scripture about a coming Messiah who would rise from death.
The Importance of Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it confirms his claims of being the Son of God, as only God could conquer death.
Additionally, it is a testament to God’s love and power, as he was able to bring Jesus back to life. It also serves as a promise to believers that they too will experience eternal life after death.
- John 11:25-26 (NIV) says: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.
“
- Romans 6:9 (NIV) says: “For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. “
In Conclusion
The Bible contains several accounts of Jesus’ resurrection, but Matthew’s detailed account is arguably the most significant. It provides us with a clear understanding of the events surrounding this miraculous event and confirms our faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that just as Christ conquered death, we too can have hope for eternal life through him.