Jesus - Resurrection

The Event of the Resurrection

Christians believe that Jesus’ crucifixion was not the end of the story. On the third day after his death — the Sunday after the Passover — he rose from the dead. The Gospels describe how his tomb was found empty and how he appeared to his followers. This is the central event of the Christian faith, showing that death and sin had been defeated. The 20th-century theologian Jürgen Moltmann even claimed that “without the Resurrection, there would be no Christianity at all,” highlighting its fundamental importance.

The Appearances of the Risen Jesus

According to the Gospels, Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene, one of his closest followers. At first she did not recognise him, but when he spoke her name, she realised he was alive. Over the next days, Jesus appeared to his disciples and to many other followers. These appearances convinced them that he had truly risen and was not a ghost or a vision, but physically alive. Jesus remained with his disciples for forty days, during which he continued to teach them and prepare them for their mission.

The Great Commission

Before ascending into heaven, Jesus gave his disciples a mission known as the Great Commission. In Matthew’s Gospel (chapter 28), he told them: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This command gave authority to the disciples to spread the Christian message worldwide and remains a foundation for Christian mission and evangelism today.

The Significance of the Resurrection for Christians

Theological Significance

The Resurrection demonstrates that Jesus is truly the Son of God. His victory over death confirms his divine authority and the truth of his teachings. It also shows that sin and death do not have the final word, because God’s power brings life and hope. Christians believe that through the Resurrection, the promise of eternal life is offered to all who have faith in Christ. It is therefore the foundation of Christian belief in salvation.

Historical Significance

For the disciples, the Resurrection was the turning point. Beforehand, they were afraid and discouraged, but after encountering the risen Jesus, they became bold preachers who spread the message despite persecution. Without the Resurrection, Christianity would likely never have grown beyond a small Jewish sect. The empty tomb and the witness of those who claimed to have seen Jesus alive remain central to Christian claims about the truth of their faith.

Significance for Christians Today

For Christians now, the Resurrection brings hope in the face of suffering and death. It reassures them that life does not end with the grave and that faith in Jesus brings the promise of eternal life with God. It also inspires them to live according to the Great Commission — spreading the message, living faithfully, and trusting in God’s power to transform lives. Easter Sunday, which celebrates the Resurrection, is the most important day in the Christian calendar.

Key Quotes for Understanding

• “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” (Matthew 28:6)

• “If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” (1 Corinthians 15:14)

• “Go and make disciples of all nations …” (Matthew 28:19–20, the Great Commission)

Summary

The Resurrection is the cornerstone of Christianity. It confirms Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, demonstrates God’s power over sin and death, and offers believers the hope of eternal life. It transformed the lives of the disciples and continues to inspire Christians today to live with faith, courage, and a mission to share the good news.