Courtney and Melissa talk with New Testament scholar (and Melissa’s husband) Mike Kruger about the excellent evidence that Jesus physically rose from the dead and the difference that makes for our lives.
Dr. Kruger points out that because Jesus predicted his own resurrection, it validates his claims to be the Son of God and the Messiah. Dr. Kruger highlights the resurrection’s transformative effects on early Christians, including their willingness to be martyred for their faith.
Related Resources:
Did the Resurrection Really Happen? (TGC Hard Questions) by Timothy Paul Jones
3 Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection
Why Is the Resurrection Good News?
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think the resurrection continues to be questioned or dismissed in our culture?
2. Why is the resurrection not just one doctrine among many but central to the Christian faith? What would Christianity lose if the resurrection weren’t true?
3. What evidence of Christ’s resurrection is particularly compelling to you?
4. Read 1 Corinthians 15 together. Paul says that if Christ hasn’t been raised, our faith is futile—but if he has been raised, everything changes. As a result, what should change in
our view of suffering?
our courage in evangelism?
our fight against sin?
our hope in death?
5. How does the knowledge that Christ is alive and reigning without rival make a difference in your life right now?
The Gospel Coalition