He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
Some people have the false idea that faith is a blind conviction. That Christianity is a Way of life built upon illusion and unproven facts. But when one becomes a Christ-follower, if they did their homework, know their decision is based on forensic and empirical evidence.
When one studies the historical evidence of the resurrection and life of Jesus Christ and those who were his immediate disciples, one walks away from following all the facts with a colossal choice to be made. Either accept Jesus was and is who he claims to be or deny Him.
The foundation of Christianity is built upon the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. If HE did not rise, there would be no Christianity. Yet over 500 eye witnesses saw him over a forty-day period after his death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:6). This was recorded by the apostle Paul some 20 years after the event. If he was exaggerating, we would have written accounts from the other side stating so. But no one in this time period has come out to deny these events did occur.
If we looked at the Bible like any other historical text book, we would agree its authenticity and marvel at its content. But because of the carnal enmity against the Triune God, some have the tenancy to deny or accept such claims.
I always wonder why some accept the gospel message quicker than others. Yet as I get older, I am beginning to wonder how much one’s pride blinds themself from seeing clearly the facts and evidence before them.
If you want to do your own research on the subject, I advocate two books written by an investigative journalist, Mr. Lee Strobel. They are: The Case for Christ and The Case for the Resurrection. Both books walk you through the evidence and confronts the excuses. I recommend both for your study to equip you with the evidence of your faith.
In regards to empirical evidence, you have the combination of yours and others with answered prayers and internal changes of attitude and heart. When you start to pursue the Triune God, you find your prayers being answered in ways that will dumbfound you. As others share similar stories with you, you begin to realize these outcomes are more than just coincidences. The writing of the saints from yesterday and your experiences today all point to a God who cares and is involved in your life.
These results along with the forensic evidence strengthen your confidence and trust in the Almighty God. At times you think you are only imagining these things. But over time, these events repeat themselves so often, you develop the holy swagger of a saint. You know God loves you and cares for you and is preparing you for an eternal home.
Meanwhile as you humbly learn to walk in His presence, sharing your life with HIM as HE shares HIS life with you, your faith is strengthened and you become a living billboard for HIS Kingdom as you live out your life serving HIM and others.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Encourager & Author of e-Books
* Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
* Great Business Emulates a Good God
* Be Radical…Follow Christ!
* Simply The Messenger
* Unequally Married
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