The resurrection of Jesus is the single most important event in the history of man, as it marked the defeat of sin, death, and Satan, and opened up the way for eternal life for all who believe in Him.
Jesus foretold his betrayal, death by crucifixion, and resurrection on the third day. Because he knew that he had come to fulfill the prophecies concerning the Messiah, he became a willing substitute for the sins of his people as predicted of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53:3-11.
The resurrection of Jesus is the central historical event in the Christian faith. As the apostle Paul put it, “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:14).
“For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.” (John 10:17-18)
Unlike the sacrificial animals mandated by the Old Testament law, Jesus willingly gave himself in obedience to the Father’s purpose to pay for the sins of the world. The apostle Paul describes the importance of Christ’s sacrifice in this way: “For our sake [God] made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21)
“Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:32-33)
Jesus accurately predicts that all of his disciples will desert him at the time of his capture. Though they will encounter adversity from the world, they will walk in his peace as his followers because he has overcome sin and death and has given them eternal life.
“The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:23-24)
Jesus is speaking of his death and resurrection, comparing his death to that of the seed of a plant, which must die so that other plants can grow.
“Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” (John 20:15)
On the third day after Jesus was crucified, Mary Magdalene visits the tomb where Jesus was buried and finds it empty. She begins sobbing and saying, “They have taken away my Lord” (v. 13). She is astonished to see the risen Jesus, who speaks to her. Immediately, she joyfully runs to tell the others of the miracle of his resurrection.
Reflection: Have you considered your own eventual death? Faith in Jesus is the only way to have victory over death and be resurrected to life eternal.
