What did Jesus’ resurrection mean? First of all, it was the vindication of everything that Jesus said, did and claimed to be. Jesus’ signs and wonders were an important confirmation of his claims. But, according to Deuteronomy 18:22, the final proof that a prophet was genuine was simply the fulfilment of their predictions. The more unlikely the prediction the more powerful the confirmation of their authority. The most startling prediction that Jesus had made, on a number of occasions, was the prediction that he would die and rise again. It was the boldest prediction a prophet could make. You can’t fake that. Did it really happen? Why would the disciples and other witnesses lie about this? They did not gain any worldly advantage from their claims. In fact, they were persecuted and many died because of their claims. Why would you endure this if you knew it was a lie? No, Jesus is risen indeed! The other thing that Jesus’ resurrection declared was that death had been conquered. When Jesus rose from the dead he rose as the first of many. His resurrection was the first in a line of many that will take place on ‘the day of resurrection’ after he returns and we are in that line. What happened to Jesus will happen to you. His resurrection assures you of that. Your time will come. As surely as you die in Christ you will also rise again and live on a new heavenly earth with a new immortal body.
Reflect on the future that awaits you and thank God.
Read John 20:1-18
