Before You Doubt the Resurrection, Answer This Question

It's a doozy.

Easter is more than a story; it’s history.

On Easter morning, I spent some time creating lettering in my Bible. I suppose it’s journaling, but it’s more like meditating on God’s character from Psalm 101: His compassion, mercy, patience, and forgiveness.

Easter is more than a story; it’s history.

First-century historians confirm what we are told in the historical narrative of Jesus’ life on earth: Jesus lived as a man, Pilate ordered him executed by crucifixion, hundreds of eyewitnesses saw him alive after he rose from the dead, and independent historical sources widely acknowledge the resurrection.

Remarkably, few of those who opposed Christianity in ancient times denied his existence or even questioned it.

Which brings us to today.

While there is compelling evidence for where the tomb was in and around Jerusalem, we can’t let adoration or romanticizing the place distract us from the miracle: Jesus rose from the dead.

Over 66,000 early manuscripts consistently detail the resurrection. This one event framed all of human history.

Is there evidence? Yes, but you're missing the point if that stops you from believing.

You must ask yourself:  “Why would someone love me enough to die for me?”

The answer gives millions of people hope, joy, and purpose.

Scientist S. Joshua Swamidass wrote, “The question of the Resurrection is more likely an opportunity to fall in love than a scientific inquiry… If Jesus really rose from the dead, it reorders everything. Just like falling in love, it changes our view of the world.”

“Without the physical resurrection, two thousand years of history are left begging for explanation, like a movie missing a key scene.”

How Much More Proof Do You Need?

That’s what the story of the Resurrection is all about. God said, “I love you and I’m willing to pay dearly to prove it to you.”

The proof isn’t necessarily in the Resurrection. It’s also in self-sacrifice by the only man who ever lived who gave up his life for yours and mine.

We all love stories where heroes sacrifice themselves to save those they care about. Spoiler alert: Think of the Chronicles of Narnia, Star Wars, or the Marvel movies: End Game, Wonder Woman, and the list goes on.

There is no other faith or religion where the God who loves people sacrifices himself on their behalf. None.

That’s why I believe and trust the Resurrection to be true. God decided before he created the world that we were worth the sacrifice.

In Christ, God redeemed and will restore all things. Until we are reunited with him, we can be confident that we’re reconciled and continue to partner — to co-work — as his agents to renew and restore relationships and culture through the work he created for us to do.