Evidence of the Resurrection

Evidence of the Resurrection

The evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ is substantial.

    •   The circumstances at the tomb reveal a missing body. And the Roman guards had fled their guard duty—an act punishable by the death penalty.
    •   Jesus appeared first to a woman, Mary Magdalene (John 20:1). In ancient Jewish culture, no one would make up a resurrection account in this way, for a woman’s testimony was considered weightless.
    •   After the crucifixion, the disciples were full of doubt and fear. Suddenly they became willing to die for their claims. Only the resurrection explains the change.
    •   Only the resurrection explains the conversion of hardcore skeptics, such as the apostle Paul, James, and doubting Thomas.
    •   Only the resurrection explains the growth and survival of the Christian church amid Roman oppression.
    •   Too many appearances occurred over too many days to too many people for the resurrection to be easily dismissed (Acts 1:3).
    •   Jesus appeared to 500 people at one time, many of whom were still living and could have disputed Paul’s resurrection claims (1 Corinthians 15:6). They did not do this, however, because the appearance of Christ was well attested.


Rhodes, R. (2010). 5-minute apologetics for today. Harvest House Publishers.