The concept of resurrection is a fundamental tenet in Christianity. According to the Bible, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was crucified and resurrected from the dead on the third day.
But what did Jesus say about resurrection? Let’s take a closer look.
Jesus’ Predictions About His Own Resurrection
In the Gospels, Jesus predicts his own death and resurrection several times. For example, in Matthew 16:21, he tells his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed and raised again on the third day. Similarly, Mark 8:31 records Jesus telling his followers that he must undergo great suffering, be rejected by the elders, chief priests and scribes, be killed and after three days rise again.
The Resurrection of Lazarus
However, it’s not just Jesus’ own resurrection that he speaks about. In John 11:25-26 Jesus says “I am the resurrection and the life.
The one who believes in me will live even if he dies.” This statement comes after he raises Lazarus from the dead.
Teachings on Eternal Life
In addition to speaking about his own resurrection and raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus also speaks about eternal life for believers. In John 5:24-25 he says “Truly I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.”
The Significance of Resurrection in Christianity
The resurrection is a central belief in Christianity because it serves as proof of Jesus’ divinity and power over death. It also gives hope to Christians that they too will experience eternal life with God after they die.
The Importance of Belief in Resurrection
Belief in resurrection is not just a matter of intellectual assent but is also a matter of faith.” Believing in Jesus as the Son of God and accepting his sacrifice for our sins is key to receiving eternal life.
The Resurrection and Second Coming
Christians also believe that Jesus’ resurrection points to his eventual second coming. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Paul writes that when Jesus returns, those who have died will rise first, followed by those who are still alive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jesus spoke about resurrection throughout his ministry. He predicted his own death and resurrection, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught about eternal life for believers. The significance of resurrection lies in its proof of Jesus’ divinity and power over death as well as its promise of eternal life with God for believers.