When we come to Matthew 28, we are not simply reading another moment in history. We are standing at the turning point of all history. What if one single event in one moment could change everything? That is exactly what the resurrection of Jesus Christ has done. It is not about traditions, clothing, or gatherings. It is about the reality that Jesus Christ lived, died for our sins, was buried, and three days later rose again in victory.
Matthew records that early in the morning, as the women came to the tomb, the earth shook, the stone was rolled away, and the angel declared, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said” (Matthew 28:6). What once was a place of death became a place of declaration. What once held sorrow now overflowed with hope. The resurrection is not just a comforting thought. It is a life-altering truth that demands a response from every one of us.
The world we live in today is filled with doubt and skepticism. We are constantly asking, “Is that real?” That is a fair question when it comes to the resurrection. Yet Scripture does not present the resurrection as a myth or legend, but as a documented, historical event. The empty tomb, the eyewitness accounts, and the transformed lives all point to one undeniable truth. Jesus Christ is alive.
1. The Resurrection is a Factual Truth
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not built on emotion or tradition. It is grounded in fact. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul reminds us that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures. He then lists eyewitnesses who saw the risen Christ. Peter saw Him. The disciples saw Him. Over 500 people saw Him at one time.
This is not a weak claim. In any courtroom, eyewitness testimony strengthens a case. One witness may raise interest, but hundreds of witnesses establish certainty. The resurrection was not hidden in secrecy. It was witnessed publicly and confirmed repeatedly. Even critics and enemies could not produce the body of Jesus. The tomb was empty because He had risen.
We must understand that Christianity stands or falls on this truth. If the resurrection did not happen, then our faith is empty. But because it did happen, our faith is secure. The resurrection is a fact that has withstood attacks, criticism, and doubt throughout history.
2. The Resurrection is a Sacred Truth
Paul uses the phrase “I delivered unto you” to describe the gospel. This was not a casual statement. It was a language used to pass on something sacred, something that could not be altered or changed. The resurrection is not just factual. It is holy.
The gospel tells us that Christ died, was buried, and rose again. This truth addresses our greatest problem, which is sin. The Bible says that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. No matter how hard we try, we fall short. Just as no one can throw a ball across the country in one attempt, no one can reach God through their own effort.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Our sin separates us from God, and the penalty for sin is death. But God, in His love, sent Jesus Christ to be the sacrifice for our sins. Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission. Jesus took our place on the cross.
To believe in Jesus means to trust that He is who He says He is, that He did what He said He did, and that He will do what He promised to do. He is God in the flesh. He died for our sins. He rose again. And He promises that whosoever calls upon Him shall be saved.
This is not just a truth to admire. It is a truth to accept.
3. The Resurrection is a Transforming Truth
Paul makes it clear that if Christ is not risen, then our faith is vain. Everything would be empty without the resurrection. But because Jesus is alive, everything changes.
The resurrection is not meant to stay in our heads. It is meant to transform our lives. Too many believers live as though Jesus is still in the tomb. They have trusted Him for salvation, but they are not living in the power of His resurrection.
The resurrection brings hope where there was despair. It brings life where there was death. It changes how we live, how we think, and how we face each day. When we truly understand that Jesus is alive, it affects everything.
Imagine the joy of someone who thought their loved one was dead, only to find out they were alive. The grief would turn into overwhelming joy. That is the reality of the resurrection. The disciples were filled with sorrow, but that sorrow was replaced with joy when they saw the risen Christ.
Because He lives, we have hope. Because He lives, our sins can be forgiven. Because He lives, our lives can be changed.
Reflection Question
Are you living as though Jesus Christ is alive, or are you living as though He is still in the tomb?
