By Steve A. Hamilton

1 Corinthians 15:12-19

Introduction: Was Jesus Christ really resurrected from the dead?  Indeed, if it is not true we are a most pitiful people because we are wasting our time. Our faith would be misplaced.  We would have believed a lie.  If Christ was not resurrected, then we will die in our sins without a hope of salvation.  So how do we know Christ was resurrected?

I. Jesus foretold His resurrection (Matt. 16:21; 17:9, 22-23; 20:18-19).  

          A. Only a foolish person would forecast his death and resurrection if it would not happen.

          B. If someone forecasted his death and resurrection and it occurred, what does that teach us?

II. Jesus died

          A. Pilate would not release the body to Joseph of Arimathea until he was assured that Jesus was dead (Mark 15:44-45).

          B. The soldiers sent by Pilate were sure Jesus was dead (John 19:31-34).

                   1. They were so convinced of his death they did not break His legs.

                   2. They made sure by piercing his side.  His body gave no involuntary response.  Rather, blood and water flowed which is evidence of a ruptured heart.

          C.  John was convinced of his death (John 19:35).

D. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus were convinced of his death (John 19:38-40).

E. The Chief Priests and the Pharisees were convinced of His death because they wanted the body secured (Matt. 27:62-63). 

III. Jesus resurrected

          A. The two Mary’s and the soldiers guarding the tomb were convinced He rose from the dead (Matt. 28:1-8).

                   1. The tomb had been sealed and guarded by soldiers.

                   2. The soldiers reported what happened (Matt. 28:11).  If the body was still in the tomb, what would they need to report?

          B. The Jewish leaders must have believed Jesus was resurrected because they did not seek His body nor did they investigate the situation to disprove the empty tomb. 

1. Rather they bribed the soldiers to perjure themselves

 (Matt. 28:12-15).  A clear indication they believed the soldier’s account.

2. The soldiers would have been put to death had they allowed someone to take the body.  Just the fact these soldiers are spreading the notion they allowed the body’s theft while they slept is proof they were lying.  The soldiers would not be alive to tell that story if it were true! 

C. Afterward, the eleven remaining apostles saw Him along with many other disciples prior to His ascension to Heaven.  Even the Apostle Paul saw Him later on the road to Damascus. 

Conclusion: Jesus Christ was resurrected (Acts 17:30-31).  Just as sure as Jesus rose from the dead, there will be a day in which we must give an account.  Have you repented of all your sins?  Are you ready for the resurrection to come?  

Last modified: 05/02/08