Reality of the Resurrection: Getting the Facts Straight

One of the crucial topics that should be discussed, which holds significant value in our faith, is the reality of resurrection. As Christians, we must be committed to seeking the truth, and we have no other tool to do so than the Word of God.

Why is it crucial to meticulously ascertain the facts surrounding the resurrection–concerning our eventual resurrection and the resurrection of Jesus Christ? The answer is found in how deeply it affects our faith and grasp of the Gospel message.

The Scripture reveals to us that the validity of our faith hinges upon the truth of Christ's resurrection. Without this foundational truth, our faith and preaching of the Gospel are rendered worthless.

1 Corinthians 15:12–19 tell us, “Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we testified against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.”

As Christians, we must ensure that our understanding of the resurrection is firmly rooted in biblical truth. The resurrection of Christ isn't just the cornerstone of the Gospel message; it also shows us how to live with a living and enduring hope.

Examining the Truth of Resurrection

Apostle Paul addresses in his letter a community grappling with doubts about resurrection. The crux of the matter pertains to the nature of the afterlife. Does it entail a bodily resurrection?

The notion that existence is solely as a disembodied spirit seems problematic. Resurrection implies restoration of the whole being—body, soul, and spirit. Therefore, a key aspect of Christian theology is the belief in bodily resurrection. However, the body that believers would receive is not just ordinary; it is glorified—similar to Christ’s body when He was resurrected on the third day after His death.

A glorified body is described in the Scriptures as one that is no longer subject to decay, sickness, or death but is immortal and incorruptible.

1 Corinthians 15:41–49 writes, “There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. So also it is written, “The first man, Adam, became a living soul.” The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual. The first man is from the earth, earthy; the second man is from heaven. As is the earthy, so also are those who are earthy; and as is the heavenly, so also are those who are heavenly. Just as we have borne the image of the earthy, we will also bear the image of the heavenly.”

The Scripture also emphasizes humanity's inherent flaws originated from Adam's transgression, illustrating how human nature became corrupted. To enable resurrection and redemption, a new representative is essential. Therefore, God sent us Jesus Christ. He embodies hope and salvation, and through His sacrificial act, provides redemption for all humanity. 

Placing faith in Jesus Christ is the sole path to salvation. His declaration during the resurrection of Lazarus underscores this truth, inviting believers to trust in His redemptive power.

John 11:24–26 tells us, Martha *said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Salvation is attainable through faith in Jesus solely, not our good deeds (Ephesians 2:8-9). For those who believe in Jesus, the assurance of resurrection to eternal life is fulfilled. 

The Crucial Truth of Christ's Resurrection

Christ's resurrection is a pivotal moment for believers' restoration, triumphing over physical death and initiating an existence of eternal significance. 

The Apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 15:13–19 underscore the importance of Christ's resurrection. He contends that if Christ has not risen, the apostle’s preaching is in vain, and faith becomes futile. In essence, without the resurrection, Christianity crumbles into a hollow shell, devoid of power and meaning.

To grasp the significance of Christ's resurrection, we must first address the question: Who died on the cross? If Jesus were merely a man, His death would lack the redemptive power needed to save humanity. Conversely, if He were solely divine, His death would be impossible, as God cannot die. However, Jesus, being both fully God and fully human, reconciles this dilemma.

Jesus' dual nature as fully God and fully man is the linchpin of salvation. As a sinless being born of the Holy Spirit, He alone could bear the weight of humanity's sins on the cross. His resurrection validates His identity as the Son of God and confirms His victory over sin and death.

John 10:17–18 states, “For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life so that I may take it again. “No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own initiative. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This commandment I received from My Father.”

Jesus' resurrection stands as the cornerstone of Christian hope. It provides the assurance of their future resurrection and eternal life in Christ. Even in the face of physical death, His resurrection grants us victory—a victory secured by Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:55–58 tells us, “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.”

Embrace the Truth of Christ’s Resurrection 

Gaining clarity on the truth of resurrection dispels the shadows of fear and confusion that may otherwise cloud our spiritual journey. It reassures us that our faith is not futile, but rather firmly anchored in the promise of a future existence in Jesus Christ. Understanding the truth of life after death imbues our faith with profound worth and significance, motivating us to live not in fear, but in anticipation of the eternal glory that awaits.

The hymn of old resounds with the profound truth:

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

Furthermore, a firm grasp of the reality of resurrection ignites a fervent zeal for sharing the Gospel, serving others, and living wholeheartedly for Christ. When we recognize that our actions and endeavors are not in vain, but rather contribute to the eternal purposes of God, our commitment to spreading the message of salvation is invigorated.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ validates His identity, secures salvation for believers, and instills hope for the future. In an uncertain world, the resurrection offers a firm foundation to build one's life and eternity. With steadfast faith and unwavering devotion, let us embrace the reality of Christ's resurrection and live lives that honor His victory over sin and death!