Speaking of the resurrection, here’s 10 reasons to believe it happened:

1. Jesus actually died. Kind of a “duh”, but if he didn’t die, he couldn’t be resurrected. He was sentenced by a documented, historical person (Pontius Pilate) and his crucifixion was public. John 19: 13 - 18

2. The grave was sealed. The official seal of the Roman Empire was put on it to keep anyone out. Roman soldiers guarded it. Matthew 27: 62 - 66

3. The grave was empty. Despite the guards, people going to finish the burial proceedings found no body. The guards were paid to say that these followers stole the body. Matthew 28

4. Many people claimed to have seen Jesus alive. Besides the (11) disciples, more than 500 others saw him. 1 Corinthians 15: 3 - 8

5. His followers were dramatically changed. Right after Jesus died, the disciples ran and hid. A few weeks later, they were boldly telling others about Jesus. Even when they were ordered not too! Acts 5: 27 - 32

6. They were willing to die for their faith. Who would die for something that they knew was a lie? They died for what they had witnessed.

7. Day of worship changed. Christ’s followers were Jews, who worship on Saturday. They changed to Sunday, to honor weekly the day that Jesus rose from the dead.

8. It had been predicted. Isaiah 53 is an example (700 years before!) Christ himself predicted it. Matthew 27: 22 – 23 Luke 24: 1 – 8

9. It is consistent with his miracles. He said and did amazing things while he lived. Would resurrection be any surprise?

10. It fits his followers today. As it changed people back then, those who follow Jesus today have “died” to their old life, and claim new life through the death and resurrection of Christ. Romans 8: 11

I know that my redeemer lives!
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives who once was dead.
He lives, my ever living head. (LBW 352)