"it is true!" (lk 24:34)
"Next He was seen by James; then by all the apostles." —1 Corinthians 15:7
The risen Christ "was seen by Cephas, then by the Twelve. After that He was seen by five hundred brothers at once, most of whom are still alive, although some have fallen asleep. Next He was seen by James; then by all the apostles. Last of all He was seen by" Paul (1 Cor 15:5-8). These are only a few of many eyewitnesses who saw Jesus risen from the dead. Moreover, well over a billion people from all nations for about two thousand years have believed in Jesus' resurrection. His resurrection is one of the most confirmed facts in history.
Furthermore, the works of the risen Christ testify that He is risen from the dead (see Jn 14:11). Anything we ask in Jesus' name He will do (Jn 14:14). Jesus' works in response to our asking show He is alive.
Throughout Christian history, the lives of millions of people have been dramatically changed by meeting the risen Christ. For example, how can we explain the change in Philip, James, the other apostles, and countless other saints and martyrs? Fearful, selfish men and women suddenly became fearless, self-sacrificing servants of God who even gave their lives for the Lord. Why would anyone give his life for someone he does not even know? They must have met the risen Christ.
Jesus is risen (Lk 24:6). To deny this is to deny reality. Therefore, believe in the risen Christ, live and die for Him, and be His witness.
Prayer: Father, may I live as though I saw a dead Man come out of the grave.
Promise: "I solemnly assure you, the man who has faith in Me will do the works I do, and greater far than these." —Jn 14:12
Praise: "Philip sought out Nathanael and told him, 'We have found the One Moses spoke of in the law — the prophets too — Jesus, Son of Joseph, from Nazareth' " (Jn 1:45).
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 23, 2007
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