Sunday, April 5, AD 33, marked the most pivotal day in history: the resurrection of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke has taken the church through Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, and crucifixion. Now, in Luke 23:50–24:12, the focus shifts to the resurrection — an event that initially startled and confused everyone, yet eventually transformed the early disciples from skeptics into bold proclaimers. The central question posed: how do people come to believe the unbelievable?
1. Examine the Evidence
- There’s reason to believe
- Search Online: Resurrection + Gary Habermas, Lee Strobel, N. T. Wright, Sean McDowell, William Lane Craig
The women and Peter demonstrate the first step — examining the evidence. They find the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. Peter inspects the grave clothes and leaves marveling. These are not gullible people; they’re skeptical but thoughtful, seeking truth. Modern historical consensus affirms several facts: Jesus lived, was crucified, buried in Joseph’s tomb, the tomb was empty, and the disciples believed they encountered the risen Jesus — even to the point of death. No compelling alternative theory explains the radical transformation and spread of Christianity, making resurrection the most reasonable explanation.
2. Explore the Prophecies
- There’s wonder to behold
The angels remind the women of Jesus’ own prophetic words about His death and resurrection. Luke records three prior predictions by Jesus, and these weren’t isolated — they aligned with hundreds of Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in Christ, many of which were written centuries before. From His lineage, birth, and ministry to His betrayal, crucifixion, and burial, the fulfillment of these prophecies points to divine orchestration. The resurrection wasn’t spontaneous but the climax of a divine plan. Exploring prophecy reveals a divine Author behind history.
3. Encounter the Witnesses
- There’s adventure to begin
Though the disciples initially dismissed the women’s report, Peter investigates. That women discovered the tomb — a detail unlikely to be fabricated due to cultural bias — adds credibility. Luke names these witnesses for verification. The Gospels and Luke’s own purpose statement (Luke 1:1–4) show the importance of firsthand testimony. The New Testament documents serve as eyewitness accounts of the resurrection, inviting readers to encounter the witnesses through Scripture.
Takeaway: The Resurrection Changes Everything
If the resurrection is true, then life has meaning, purpose, and eternal significance. Jesus offers forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life. The resurrection confronts everyone with a choice: believe or dismiss. But given the evidence, prophecy, and eyewitnesses, the resurrection demands investigation. Because if it’s true — it changes everything.
