Published March 31, 2024

by Andy Berges

 

While many Americans will be celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ today, many others will not because they reject it.

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I was included among this group of skeptics when I was an adolescent until I examined the historical evidence. While many scholars concur that the most conclusive proof of the resurrection was the discovery of the empty tomb where Jesus’ body was laid after his crucifixion and death, I was convinced by two additional facts.

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The first is the remarkable transformation of Jesus’ disciples after his resurrection. Prior to this event, the disciples were fearful and uncertain about their future. When Jesus was arrested, all of the disciples fled, fearing for their lives. With the exception of John, who witnessed the crucifixion, none were anywhere near the area because they were terrified of the possibility of being executed next.

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However, after encountering Jesus after he had risen, they clearly understood that Jesus was God incarnate and they were transformed from being timid and fearful to joyful and fearless. They were filled with courage and boldly began proclaiming the message of the Gospel to anyone who would listen, unafraid of the consequences. Knowingly facing persecution and death, they remained steadfast in their faith and commitment to Jesus. With the exception of John, who was exiled to the Greek Island of Patmos where he wrote the Book of Revelation, all of the remaining disciples died torturous deaths as a result of their testimony. 

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The magnitude of the disciples' transformation cannot be fully comprehended without acknowledging the undeniable reality of the resurrection. It is the only explanation that can account for their remarkable shift in behavior and unshakable conviction.

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The second compelling piece of evidence is the conversion of the Apostle Paul.  Prior to encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, Paul was a zealous persecutor of Christians and participated in the execution of many.

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However, after his life-altering encounter with Jesus, Paul was forever transformed from a merciless persecutor of Christians to an ardent supporter of them. Despite facing tremendous hardship and persecution, he never wavered in his commitment to Jesus. He became Christianity’s most determined missionary and suffered years of ridicule, poverty, brutal floggings and being stoned. Eventually, he was beheaded by the Roman emperor Nero for refusing to deny his faith in Jesus.

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The transformation of Paul being a fierce opponent of Christianity to becoming one of its most passionate advocates, is a powerful testament to the reality of the resurrection and serves as indisputable evidence of the truth of Jesus' resurrection.

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Easter is a day that reminds those who have faith that death is not the end and that life is eternal. It is a day for reflection and rejoicing in the resurrection of our Lord and savior who gave his life for our sins.

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As we reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for us, we should recommit ourselves to living virtuously and righteously just as he did. In this way, we honor his memory and continue to spread love, hope, and redemption to the world.