Resurrection
of the Dead

The resurrection of Jesus stands as the ultimate proof of His identity and mission, supported by multiple lines of evidence in Scripture. First, the empty tomb shows that Jesus’ body was gone on the third day. Mary Magdalene found the tomb open with the stone rolled away (Matthew 28:6; John 20:1-2). The tomb was guarded by Roman soldiers, making the body’s disappearance remarkable (Matthew 27:62-66).

Second, the angelic testimony confirmed the resurrection, as angels told the women at the tomb that Jesus had risen (Luke 24:5-6). Third, many eyewitness appearances provide strong proof. Jesus appeared alive to Mary Magdalene (John 20:14-17), the disciples (John 20:19-29), and over 500 people at once, as Paul records (1 Corinthians 15:6).

Fourth, the transformed lives of witnesses show the resurrection’s power. Peter boldly proclaimed, "This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses" (Acts 2:32). Before the resurrection, the disciples were fearful; afterward, they preached fearlessly and endured persecution (Acts 4:10, Acts 4:33).

Finally, the resurrection fulfills Old Testament prophecy, confirming Jesus as the promised Messiah. (Psalm 16:10) declares, “For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.” (Isaiah 53:10–11) foretold the suffering and resurrection of the Messiah, which Jesus fulfilled (Acts 2:25-31).

All these testimonies—historical, experiential, and prophetic—converge to provide irrefutable proof that Jesus rose from the dead, confirming His divine identity and mission.

Scripture teaches that all people will be resurrected in one of two distinct resurrections, separated by 1,000 years:

First Resurrection (Righteous/Just): Believers rise at Christ’s visible return to reign with Him for 1,000 years (Rev 20:4-6; 1 Thess 4:16-17; John 5:24-29). The “catching up” of believers at Christ’s return is the same event described as the first resurrection. Those who share in this resurrection are blessed, and the second death has no power over them (Rev 20:6).

Second Resurrection (Unrighteous/Unjust): After the Millennium, the dead face final judgment (Rev 20:5, 11-15; Daniel 12:2; Acts 24:15). This includes all who did not belong to Christ, demonstrating God’s justice and the accountability of every person.

The resurrection of Jesus is far more than a historical event—it is a transformative and living power at work in believers today. Through baptism, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection, symbolizing our new life and victory over sin (Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17). The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now dwells in us, giving life to our mortal bodies and empowering us to overcome sin, fear, and death (Romans 8:11; Ephesians 1:19-20).

Living in this resurrection life means pursuing holiness by walking in newness of life, set apart and obedient to God (Romans 6:11-13). It brings hope and courage in the face of trials and sorrow, assuring us that death is not the final word (1 Thessalonians 4:13; 1 Peter 1:3). Resurrection power fuels boldness for ministry, enabling us to serve faithfully and bear spiritual fruit (Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 15:58). It also compels us to confidently share the gospel, proclaiming God's power and love revealed through Jesus’ victory over death (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6).

This power of the resurrection assures believers of a future hope—the promise of their own resurrection and eternal life with God (John 11:25-26; 1 Corinthians 15:20-23). In essence, the resurrection is both irrefutable proof of Jesus' divine mission and a present, active force that renews, strengthens, and sustains believers for faithful and hopeful living every day.