“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” – Matthew 28:6
Fulfillment of Prophecy
When we talk about Jesus rising on the third day, we cannot overlook the prophecies that foretold this miraculous event. Being aware of these prophecies strengthens our faith in God’s plan and reminds us of His power. We can trace these promises throughout the Old Testament, expressing the anticipation that led to the resurrection. This was not merely a spontaneous event, but a carefully orchestrated divine plan revealing God’s sovereignty and love for humanity. These foretold events help us to see that even in our hardships, God’s promises remain true and trustworthy, encouraging us, as we trust in His word.
Isaiah 53:5
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” – Isaiah 53:5
Psalm 16:10
“Because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.” – Psalm 16:10
Hosea 6:2
“After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.” – Hosea 6:2
Matthew 12:40
“For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” – Matthew 12:40
Luke 24:46
“He told them, ‘This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day.'” – Luke 24:46
Resurrection as a Foundation of Faith
The resurrection of Jesus provides solid ground for our faith. By rising on the third day, He conquered death and signified the hope we have for eternal life. It assures us that death is not the end but a passageway to something greater. We are reminded of the transformative power of His resurrection, which ignites hope in our hearts. This act assures us that our sins are forgiven, that we are given new life, and it calls us to share this joy with others. It underlines why our relationship with Jesus is crucial, as His victory over death leads us into our own resurrection as believers.
1 Corinthians 15:20
“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” – 1 Corinthians 15:20
John 11:25
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;'” – John 11:25
Romans 1:4
“And who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” – Romans 1:4
Philippians 3:10-11
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.” – Philippians 3:10-11
2 Timothy 1:10
“But it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” – 2 Timothy 1:10
Victory Over Death
In Christ’s resurrection on the third day, we witness the ultimate victory over death. This moment is not merely symbolic, but rather a reality that shapes our everyday lives. Understanding that Jesus conquered death empowers us to face struggles and uncertainties with courage. We can walk confidently, knowing that regardless of the challenges we encounter, we have a Savior who has triumphed over the grave. His resurrection becomes our assurance that we, too, will gain victory over our trials as we trust in Him. It is this victory that encourages us to persevere, trusting in His promises.
1 Corinthians 15:55
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” – 1 Corinthians 15:55
Revelation 1:18
“I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” – Revelation 1:18
Romans 8:37
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” – Romans 8:37
John 14:19
“Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” – John 14:19
Acts 2:24
“But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.” – Acts 2:24
A Call to Live in Resurrection Power
Recognizing that Jesus rose on the third day inspires us to live in a way that reflects His resurrection power. Our everyday choices should echo the new life we have received through Him. Believing in His resurrection means we are called to be agents of transformation in our communities. We embrace the challenge to live out our faith actively. This includes loving our neighbors, helping those in need, and spreading the good news about Christ’s saving grace. Living in this resurrection power reminds us that each day presents an opportunity to operate in the fullness of our faith, showcasing the light of Christ to those around us.
Colossians 3:1
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” – Colossians 3:1
Romans 6:4
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” – Romans 6:4
Ephesians 2:6
“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” – Ephesians 2:6
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
Acts 4:33
“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all.” – Acts 4:33
Hope in a Future Resurrection
Jesus rising on the third day offers us hope not just for today, but for the future. His resurrection foreshadows our own resurrection when we place our faith in Him. Death does not have the final word; instead, it is the beginning of a glorious eternity with our Savior. Understanding this truth fills our hearts with hope, which should motivate us to share this joy with those around us. As we encourage one another, we find strength to press forward, knowing that one day, we will be with Him forever. This eternal perspective helps us navigate the present, providing comfort within life’s challenges.
1 Thessalonians 4:14
“For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:14
Revelation 21:4
“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” – Revelation 21:4
John 5:28-29
“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.” – John 5:28-29
Romans 8:11
“And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” – Romans 8:11
Coiossians 1:18
“And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” – Colossians 1:18
Witnesses of the Resurrection
This incredible event of Jesus rising on the third day was witnessed by many, which provides a strong foundation for our faith. The accounts of Christ appearing to His followers after His resurrection show that God desires to have a personal relationship with us. These testimonies remind us that our faith is rooted in historical events, not just abstract beliefs. When we read about these experiences, we find encouragement in knowing that others have encountered the risen Christ just as we can. Their testimonies invite us to pursue our personal relationship with Jesus, filled with faith and assurance.
Matthew 28:9
“Suddenly Jesus met them. ‘Greetings,’ he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.” – Matthew 28:9
John 20:16
“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means ‘Teacher’).” – John 20:16
Luke 24:34
“And saying, ‘It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.'” – Luke 24:34
1 Corinthians 15:6
“After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.” – 1 Corinthians 15:6
John 21:14
“This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.” – John 21:14
Final Thoughts
The miraculous event of Jesus rising on the third day remains at the heart of our faith as Christians. It assures us that death has been conquered and that we have a Savior who loves us deeply. Filled with hope and encouragement, we are called to live out this resurrection power daily. When we remember the prophecies that foretold His resurrection, the victory over death, the call to transform our lives, and the promises of future resurrection, our hearts rejoice. Together, we can share this good news of hope and love with those around us, encouraging others to explore this relationship with Jesus.
As we reflect on the promises made to us through Scripture, let’s embrace the truth that we are not alone. Jesus has risen, and He lives among us. Through His Spirit, we are empowered to face life’s challenges and walk in His light. I invite you to discover more about friendship with Jesus and how that relationship strengthens our lives.
Let us continue to uplift and inspire one another, fostering a community that embodies the love and hope found in the resurrection of Christ. For more resources, visit Bible Repository or explore Bible verses about friendship with Jesus. May you find peace and encouragement in His word.