Did Jesus really die, and did He rise again on the third day? Before Jesus’ death on the cross, He was flogged by the Roman soldiers, with a thorn–crown pierced into His head. He was put to death by nailing on the cross. He was also pierced on the side by the solders as we read in John 19:32- 34:
32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. 33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.
This is clear evidence that Jesus actually died. It would be humanly impossible to survive after the whipping of the soldiers, followed by the crucifixion on the cross before being pierced with a spear by them.
After His death, He was buried in the tomb, with Roman soldiers guarding the tomb round the clock. The tomb was then sealed by them, in Matthew 27:65-66, “Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.” So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.
It is impossible for the disciples to steal the body of Christ, under the vigilant watch of the Roman soldiers, and the seal on the stone that secured the tomb, contrary to some folklore that the body of Jesus Christ was stolen. As we also read from Matt 28:2-7, Jesus has indeed risen from the dead:
2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
We thank God for the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. His death on the cross has fully paid for the penalty of our sins. By faith, those who believe in Jesus Christ, will have their sins forgiven forever, with the promise of eternal life. His resurrection has conquered sin and death.
As Christians, we rejoice that we have the hope of resurrection with Jesus. All bible-believing Christians who have died will be raised to eternal life when Jesus returns. Those who are alive when Jesus returns, will never see death.
May I strongly urge those who have not received the gospel to believe in Jesus Christ during this Easter.
“54 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” 55 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:54 – 57)
As we celebrate Easter Sunday, we thank God that Jesus Christ has conquered death and given us eternal life. Hallelujah for a risen Christ!