The resurrection of Jesus is a central doctrine of Christianity. It is the belief that Jesus Christ rose from the dead three days after his crucifixion.
The four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, provide accounts of this event. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the Gospels say about the resurrection of Jesus.
The Resurrection Accounts in the Gospels
All four Gospels have accounts of the resurrection of Jesus, but each one differs slightly in its details. Matthew’s Gospel tells us that an angel rolled away the stone from Jesus’ tomb and that the guards who were stationed there were frightened and became like dead men (Matthew 28:2-4).
Mark’s Gospel describes an encounter between Mary Magdalene and two angels who tell her that Jesus has risen (Mark 16:5-7). Luke’s Gospel tells us that when women went to Jesus’ tomb to anoint his body, they found it empty and were told by two angels that he had risen (Luke 24:1-11). John’s Gospel recounts how Mary Magdalene found the tomb empty and ran to tell Peter and another disciple who then went to see for themselves (John 20:1-10).
The Significance of the Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates his divine nature as the Son of God.
Second, it shows his victory over death and sin. Third, it provides hope for believers that they too will rise from the dead one day.
Jesus’ Divine Nature
The fact that Jesus was able to rise from the dead shows that he was more than just a human being. In John’s Gospel, Jesus himself claims to be divine when he says “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). The resurrection is therefore a confirmation of Jesus’ divine nature.
Victory Over Death and Sin
The resurrection also shows Jesus’ victory over death and sin. In 1 Corinthians 15:55-57, the apostle Paul writes that “Death has been swallowed up in victory” and that “thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” The resurrection demonstrates that death is not the end and that believers have hope for eternal life.
Hope for Believers
The resurrection provides hope for believers that they too will rise from the dead one day. In 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, Paul writes that “Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” and that “in Christ shall all be made alive.” This means that believers can have confidence in their own resurrection because of what Jesus has done.
- In Conclusion:
In summary, the Gospels provide accounts of the resurrection of Jesus which demonstrate his divine nature, his victory over death and sin, and provide hope for believers. The fact that Jesus rose from the dead is central to Christian belief and provides assurance of eternal life. As Christians, we can take comfort in knowing that death is not the end and that because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we too can rise again one day.