Believe in the Risen Lord
Matthew 28:1-10, 16-20
A prominent attorney from Virginia once made a diligent investigation into the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus, asking himself the question: Can any intelligent person believe the resurrection story? After examining the evidence thoroughly, he came away asking a different question: Can any intelligent person deny the weight of this evidence?
Reasons for believing in the resurrection of Jesus are many. Luke the physician wrote: “After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs” (Acts 1:3). Several of these proofs are clearly seen within the Matthew 28 narrative:
Consider the empty tomb (28:1-4). The women who went to the grave site early that morning were treated to a spectacle from heaven as they witnessed an empty tomb. The stone was rolled away so they might see that it had been saturated with Christ’s absence. The events of that morning are truly earth-shaking in their significance. Because Christ’s tomb is empty, our faith is full!
Recall what Jesus predicted (28:5-7). The angel’s words to the women confirmed that Jesus had been resurrected from the dead as He had promised. Our Lord’s numerous predictions of his death and resurrection now being fulfilled not only point to the fact that He was a prophet, but more importantly, that He is the Son of God and only Savior of the world. The women are commanded to begin to get the word out by first telling His disciples. If we believe He lives, we, too, will get the gospel message out for all to hear.
Reflect on the risen Lord’s appearances (28:8-10). Jesus made many post-resurrection appearances. First Corinthians 15:5-8 should be read in conjunction with all the Gospel accounts of His appearances. J. Vernon McGee has said: “Any lawyer would love to have so many witnesses for his case.” The sight of an empty tomb and then a personal encounter with their living Lord led these women into a worship experience. All who truly grasp such evidence will be moved to worship Him as well.
Think about the church’s growth (28:16-20). The continued presence and proclamation of the church down through the ages is additional proof of the resurrection of Christ. You and I have been given this same Great Commission to share the gospel in our generation. In doing so, we provide further evidence for the resurrection. A church alive with excited witnesses says to the world that Christ Jesus is alive! Have you shared Him with anyone lately? Easter is a wonderful time to make a fresh commitment to sharing Christ. We can begin by using the words of the old hymn: “You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart.”
Clark– Lessons in the ETB series for the spring quarter are being written by Tim Clark, pastor of Holly Springs Baptist Church, Inman.