The Resurrection and Appearances of Christ: Youth Bible Study Lesson 169

Christ Has Risen!

Jesus Christ was crucified, died, and was buried just as the Scriptures foretold. The disciples, overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty, were hiding. Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and other women went to the tomb with spices to anoint His body. They were concerned about who would roll away the stone from the tomb, not knowing that the greatest miracle had already occurred—Jesus had risen!

The resurrection of Jesus is not only the cornerstone of Christian faith but also a powerful reminder for Christian youths that though it may seem darkest now, dawn is coming. As Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1).

Christ’s Resurrection: Fulfillment of Scripture

Mary Magdalene’s Commitment

Mary was the first to reach the sepulcher. Her devotion is a challenge to today’s Christian youths. Despite being a woman in a male-dominated culture, she expressed her loyalty to Jesus in action. Christian youths—both male and female—should demonstrate such early rising, sacrificial commitment to Christ.

Peter and John at the Tomb

When Mary reported the empty tomb, Peter and John ran to investigate. The unity, love, and urgency they showed is a powerful example of Christian brotherhood and passion for the things of God.

The Empty Graveclothes

The grave clothes lying undisturbed showed Jesus’ body was not stolen—it had passed into a glorified state. This is a supernatural sign of His resurrection. Christ rose and defeated Satan, death, and hell, confirming our faith and future victory in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17).

Lessons from Christ’s Resurrection

• Salvation through His death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1–4)
• Sanctification and healing (1 Peter 2:24)
• Deliverance from sin and demonic power (Colossians 2:14–15)
• Sonship and hope (Romans 1:4; 1 Peter 1:3)
• Victory over death and assurance of our own resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:55–57)
• Confirmation of Christ’s deity and messiahship

Christ’s Appearances and His Great Commission

Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene, the other women, the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Peter, Thomas, the eleven disciples, and over 500 brethren. He proved beyond doubt that He was risen indeed.

How Christ Appears Today

Today, Jesus still reveals Himself through the Scriptures, dreams, spiritual encounters, and divine interventions—just as He did to Saul (Paul) on the road to Damascus.

Jesus also commissioned His disciples to spread the gospel. He gave them the Holy Spirit’s power for this mission (John 20:22; Acts 1:8). That mission continues today, and Christian youths are called to be part of it.

Faith and Fellowship: The Example of Thomas

Thomas missed the first appearance of Jesus and doubted the resurrection. Because he missed fellowship, he missed a faith-building encounter. Christian youths must remain consistent in fellowship to strengthen their faith and avoid spiritual doubt.

Benefits of Fellowship

• Spiritual growth through teaching (Romans 10:17)
• Encouragement and support (Hebrews 10:25)
• Collective prayer and mutual edification

Peter’s Restoration: Love in Action

Jesus did not rebuke Peter for denying Him but instead gave him a second chance. He asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” and then commissioned him to feed His sheep. True love for Christ is demonstrated by active, sacrificial service.

Christ is Alive—What Will Be Said of You?

John concluded his Gospel by affirming the abundance of Jesus’ works, stating that the world could not contain all the books if everything were written. But what about you? What will be written about your life, your service, and your faith?

Christian youths should reflect: Do I have a real relationship with God? Am I fulfilling my purpose? Am I living in a way that brings glory to Christ who died and rose again for me?