Christians believe Jesus really died and was raised bodily from the dead. The resurrection is not an optional symbol added to Christianity. It is the claim on which the first Christians based their faith and the reason Easter is a celebration rather than a memorial.
The New Testament contains early testimony about the empty tomb and people who believed they encountered the risen Jesus. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul passes on a summary he had received and points to named witnesses, including Peter, James and a large group of Jesus’ followers. The Gospels also show frightened and confused disciples becoming convinced that Jesus was alive.
Historical evidence cannot convince us, and people weigh that evidence differently. Still, the resurrection was not presented as a private feeling or a late inspirational story. The first Christians made a public claim that Jesus had defeated death, and they built their lives around it.
If Jesus rose, then death is not the end and hope is more than wishful thinking. Christians believe his resurrection begins God’s new creation and promises resurrection life for those who belong to him. If you want to investigate, read Luke 24 or John 20 and bring your questions with you.
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