The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in Christianity. It is the cornerstone of faith for millions of believers around the world.
But where in the Bible can we find references to this pivotal moment in history? In this article, we will explore several passages from the New Testament that talk about Jesus’ resurrection.
The Resurrection Foretold
The idea of Jesus’ resurrection was not entirely foreign to his disciples, as he had spoken about it on several occasions. In Matthew 16:21, Jesus 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 on the third day be raised. Similarly, in John 2:19-22, Jesus says that if they destroy his body (referring to his death), he will raise it up in three days.
The Empty Tomb
The empty tomb is a crucial aspect of the resurrection story. In all four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), we read about how women went to Jesus’ tomb on the third day after his crucifixion and found it empty.
In Matthew 28:5-6, an angel appears to them and says: “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here; for He has risen, just as He said.”
Appearances of the Risen Christ
After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples on numerous occasions. In Luke 24:36-43, we read about how he appeared to them while they were gathered together in a room. They were frightened at first because they thought they were seeing a ghost but then realized it was really him when he showed them his hands and feet.
In John 20:26-28, we read about how Jesus appeared to his disciples a week later, this time with Thomas present. Thomas had previously said that he would not believe that Jesus had risen unless he saw him with his own eyes and touched his wounds. When Jesus appeared to him, Thomas exclaimed: “My Lord and my God!”
The Great Commission
Finally, we come to the end of the gospel of Matthew, where we find what is known as the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus tells his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. He then promises to be with them always, even to the end of the age.
In conclusion, there are several passages in the New Testament that talk about Jesus’ resurrection. These include references to it before it happened, accounts of the empty tomb and appearances of the risen Christ, as well as instructions given by Jesus himself after his resurrection. For Christians around the world, these passages are not just historical events but a source of hope and faith for their daily lives.