#6 Did Jesus Really Rise From the Grave?

Did Jesus really rise from the grave?

This question has been debated since the empty tomb was discovered. There have been several different theories to account for the missing body of the crucified Jesus.

One theory is that Jesus’ disciples stole his body. Anticipating this possibility, however, the Jewish leaders demanded an official Roman sealing of the tomb and posted soldiers to guard against any attempts. A large boulder covered the entrance of the tomb and the official seal of the Roman Governor was applied. Roman guards were highly disciplined due to threat of severe discipline. Offenses like falling asleep on guard duty were punishable by death. Particularly in a high profile responsibility like guarding Jesus’ tomb. A riot among the Jews would result in severe consequences for Pilate as well. Considering the penalties at stake, it’s unimaginable that a guard would risk falling asleep. It’s even less likely is that group of untrained individuals overpowered them. Additionally, a thorough search for the body failed to locate the “hidden” body of Jesus.

Hundreds of eyewitnesses claimed to have seen the risen Jesus.

 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.

1 Corinthians 15:3-8

Another theory, to account for the eyewitness testimony, proposed that Jesus didn’t actually die on the cross. However, this theory is not supported by any medical science. Jesus sustained a severe beating, significant blood loss, asphyxiation, and was stabbed in the side with a spear. Additionally, his body was handled and prepared with hundreds of pounds of spices and cloth wrapping without any signs of life. To propose that Jesus healed without medical treatment, regained his strength, and escaped from a sealed tomb in 3 days requires a leap of faith equivalent to belief in his resurrection.