Adults Search Lesson 169: The Resurrection and Appearances of Christ

The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands at the very heart of the Christian faith. Without it, the message of the gospel would be incomplete, and salvation through Christ would be meaningless. Despite efforts by Jewish authorities to prevent His resurrection by sealing the tomb and setting guards, their actions only served to confirm its reality. This lesson explores the powerful evidence of Christ’s resurrection and the profound significance of His post-resurrection appearances.

Proofs of Christ’s Resurrection

Biblical Evidence and Apostolic Witness

Christ’s resurrection is foundational to Christian preaching and belief. The apostles consistently emphasized this event as proof of His messiahship and deity (1 Corinthians 15:14). Sceptics proposed various fallacies to discredit the resurrection, such as claiming the disciples stole His body or that He merely swooned. However, Scripture presents irrefutable evidence:

• The heavy stone was miraculously rolled away (Matthew 28:2; John 20:1).
• The tomb was found empty by several witnesses (John 20:5-7).
• Soldiers reported the event and were bribed to lie (Matthew 28:11-15).
• The grave clothes remained intact, proving His body was not stolen (John 20:5-7).
• Angelic witnesses proclaimed, “He is risen!” (Luke 24:6).
• Numerous post-resurrection appearances validated His return (Luke 24:39; John 20:20).
• The disciples’ transformation and fearless preaching serve as additional proof (Acts 2:32).

Fulfillment of Prophecy

Jesus’ resurrection fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies, such as Psalm 16:10. He also personally predicted His resurrection (Luke 9:22; Mark 14:28). His rising from the dead confirms:

• The reliability of biblical prophecy.
• The guarantee of believers’ own resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20).
• His authority and divine nature (Acts 2:24).
• Victory over death and the grave (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

Post-Resurrection Appearances of Christ

Encounters with His Disciples

Jesus appeared to multiple individuals and groups after His resurrection:

1. Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-17)
2. Other women at the tomb (Matthew 28:9-10)
3. Peter (Luke 24:33-35)
4. Two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-32)
5. Ten apostles without Thomas (John 20:19-25)
6. All eleven apostles including Thomas (John 20:26-31)
7. Over 500 brethren at once (1 Corinthians 15:6)
8. By the Sea of Tiberias (John 21:1-14)

Each of these appearances brought renewed faith, joy, and courage to His followers. Particularly notable is His interaction with Thomas, who initially doubted. Jesus lovingly confronted his unbelief and strengthened his faith, teaching us that doubt can be overcome with honest seeking and divine grace.

The Importance of Fellowship

Thomas missed Christ’s first appearance because he was absent from the fellowship of disciples. This underscores the importance of regular Christian gathering (Hebrews 10:25). Persistent absence from fellowship can open the door to doubt and spiritual weakness.

Proof of Love Through Service

Christ’s Challenge to Peter

In John 21:15-25, Christ recommissioned Peter with the question: “Lovest thou me more than these?” True love for Christ must surpass personal interests, career, or possessions. Jesus emphasized that loving Him should translate into feeding and caring for His flock.

True Discipleship Involves Sacrifice

Jesus warned Peter of the trials and eventual martyrdom that would accompany his call. The path of discipleship is not without challenges, but it leads to eternal reward. Every believer must be ready to endure hardships for Christ’s sake (Acts 14:22).

Personal Responsibility and God’s Calling

When Peter asked about John’s future, Jesus responded, “What is that to thee? Follow thou me.” This teaches that God’s call is personal, and each believer must focus on fulfilling their own assignment (Matthew 25:14-18).

Review Questions

1. What is the significance of Christ’s resurrection?
2. Explain some of the errors commonly held by sceptics on Christ’s resurrection.
3. What are the biblical proofs of Christ’s resurrection?
4. What are the benefits of Christ’s resurrection for believers?
5. Mention instances where Christ predicted His resurrection.
6. What do you learn from Christ’s post-resurrection appearances?
7. How can sinners, backsliders, and believers benefit from Christ’s resurrection?