Has Jesus Risen?

Matthew 28:5-6 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.

Couple of weeks back there was this big news that certain archaeologists found the “The Lost tomb of Jesus”. This news spread like wild fire across all television, web and print media. As I read through this news I was not surprised. The one question that has been prevalent for the past 2000 years is; “Has Jesus risen?” This Sunday many Christians celebrated Easter across the globe. For some it was a time for Easter eggs, for some it was a time to have a good time with family, for some it was the end of the Lent season. None of these are the true reasons for celebrating Easter. The true reason for this celebration is that Jesus rose from his death on this day, where he conquered sin and death.

Some months back I was talking to a person who was asking me, why is the resurrection of Jesus so important? As we look through the Bible, or other historical, religious & mythological books we can come across many stories about people who have been resurrected from their death. The Bible also mentions about many such incidents. There is the story of Lazarus who rose from being dead in the grave for 4 days, and then there is the incident where the son of a widow was brought to life by Jesus. So what is so unique about the resurrection of Jesus?

I believe the key fact that differentiates the resurrection of Jesus from everybody else in this world through the ages of time, is that Jesus was the only one who never died again after resurrecting from his death. All those who lived after dying, did die eventually. Jesus is the only one who lives even today. He was with God from the beginning of time and he still lives. He is now seated at the right hand of God. He now acts as the only advocate for all who believe in the work he did on the cross and believe in his resurrection.

This truth has confused the wisest across the world. Hence, to disapprove this fact many through the ages have tried every possible effort. I believe that this quest for finding the grave of Jesus is also such an endeavor. It is interesting to see that the Bible says in, “Romans 1:22 Professing to be wise, they became fools”.

Many believe that if they can prove, Jesus never rose from his death then the claim of all who believe in Jesus will be vanquished. This has been the most popular quest in this world. But Alas!! Many have died disheartened & disillusioned, since they failed to disapprove the fact that God himself had enacted. However, some did recognize the truth and accepted and had meaningful lives. It is ironic that many who did not believe made every attempt to disapprove what Jesus did on the cross and the grave, but were hesitant to accept Jesus with a simple act of faith. This is perhaps why Jesus says that all we need is a faith like a mustard seed.

So what is your quest in life? The question that faces all is: Do you believe in Jesus who rose from his death? He conquered death & sin for you and me. All it takes is faith like a mustard seed. Only then, will we have meaningful and satisfied lives. Then leave it to God to prove that he still lives.

Stanley Samuel
Associate
India International Church