“He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as He said would happen.” – Matthew 28:6
The resurrection of Jesus is not just the climax of the Easter story—it is the cornerstone of our faith and the launching pad for a life filled with hope, purpose, and power. When the angel declared to the women at the tomb, “He is risen,” everything changed. Heaven’s plan was unfolding in full color, and death had just lost its sting.
But how do we know the resurrection actually happened? And what does it mean for you and me—today, in our everyday lives?
Let’s take a look at both the proof and the power of the resurrection.
The Proof of the Resurrection
- The Empty Tomb
The body of Jesus was never found. If the religious leaders or Roman authorities had stolen it, they could have easily squashed the early Christian movement by producing the body. But the tomb was, and remains, empty. - Eyewitnesses
Jesus appeared alive after His death to over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:6). Eyewitness accounts include the women at the tomb, the disciples, two men on the Emmaus road, and later, even doubting Thomas. These weren’t hallucinations—they were encounters. - The Transformation of the Disciples
These once-terrified followers went from hiding behind locked doors to boldly preaching in the streets. Why? Because they had seen the risen Christ. They were willing to die for what they had seen, and many did. - The Birth of the Church
The rapid rise of the early Church in the very city where Jesus was crucified is unexplainable without the resurrection. Thousands came to faith within weeks of His death—right in Jerusalem. - The Changed Lives
For 2,000 years, the resurrection of Jesus has transformed lives, broken addictions, healed marriages, softened hard hearts, and filled countless people with unshakable hope. Including mine.
The Power of the Resurrection
Knowing the resurrection is true is one thing. Experiencing its power is another.
Here’s what the resurrection of Jesus gives us:
1. Victory Over Sin and Death
Because Jesus rose from the dead, sin doesn’t have the final word—and neither does death. “Death is swallowed up in victory!” (1 Corinthians 15:54)
2. A Living Hope
Peter writes: “By His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3). This hope isn’t wishful thinking—it’s anchored in a living Savior.
3. New Life Today
The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us (Romans 8:11). That means you can live free from shame, fear, and spiritual deadness. You don’t have to wait until heaven to start living in resurrection power.
4. Purpose for Living
The resurrection gives you a reason to live boldly. If Jesus is alive, then His mission still matters. You have something to live for—and Someone to live with.
5. A Certain Future
Jesus promised that because He lives, we also will live (John 14:19). Heaven is not a wishful dream; it’s a guaranteed destination for every believer in Christ.
Let the Resurrection Change You
The angel told the women, “Go quickly and tell…” That’s our invitation too. Once you believe Jesus is risen, the next step is to share it, live it, and walk in the power of it.
This week, take time to thank Jesus for His victory. Let His resurrection change the way you see your struggles, your purpose, and your future. He is not in the tomb. He is risen—and He is with you.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You that You are alive! Thank You for conquering sin and death so I can live in freedom and hope. Help me to walk in resurrection power every day, and to share this good news with a world that so desperately needs it. Amen.
If this post encouraged you, feel free to share it with someone who needs hope today. The resurrection changes everything—and it can change them too.
