Resurrection of Jesus: Events & Theories

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'first fruits' in relation to Christ's resurrection imply?

Christ's resurrection is purely metaphorical

Resurrection is a common event for all humans

Christ was the only one to be resurrected

Christ's resurrection precedes and guarantees the resurrection of others (correct)

Which theory suggests that Jesus did not actually die on the cross but rather fainted?

The Wrong Tomb Theory

The Visionary Development Theory

The Theft Theory

The Swoon Theory (correct)

The Wrong Tomb Theory suggests what about the women's discovery of an empty tomb?

They fabricated the story for attention

They were at the correct tomb but misunderstood the events

They were guided there by angels

They were confused and found the wrong tomb (correct)

Which rationalistic theory holds that the disciples stole Jesus' body to convince others of his resurrection?

The Theft Theory Signup and view all the answers

What does the Visionary and Legendary Development Theory claim about the resurrection narratives?

They arose from early visions experienced by disciples Signup and view all the answers

What is widely accepted regarding Jesus' crucifixion?

He was crucified under orders from Pontius Pilate around AD 30 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes why many modern critical scholars reject the earlier resurrection theories?

They favor the idea of legendary development over literal resurrection Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'in Adam all die' signify in the context of resurrection?

All humans face spiritual death due to sin Signup and view all the answers

What does the resurrection of Christ primarily confirm?

Jesus' claims regarding His person and work Signup and view all the answers

According to Romans 10:9, the resurrection provides assurance of what?

Salvation Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of Christ's resurrection concerning death?

It provides power over sin and death. Signup and view all the answers

What promise is associated with Christ's resurrection related to believers who have died?

They will rise first at the coming of the Lord. Signup and view all the answers

What does Paul indicate about faith in relation to the resurrection?

Faith without evidence of the resurrection is worthless. Signup and view all the answers

What does the resurrection demonstrate about God's promises?

They are trustworthy and true. Signup and view all the answers

What implication does the resurrection have for the concept of grief according to 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18?

Grief is unnecessary for the believers in Christ. Signup and view all the answers

What would Jesus' death represent without the resurrection?

A defeat. Signup and view all the answers

What criterion supports the claim that Jesus was buried in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathaea?

Criterion of multiple attestation Signup and view all the answers

Which event is central to the church’s proclamation regarding Jesus?

The discovery of the empty tomb Signup and view all the answers

Who were the initial witnesses of the empty tomb according to the Gospels?

Mary and other women Signup and view all the answers

What evidence suggests the early church likely did not fabricate the resurrection appearances to women?

Women were not viewed as reliable witnesses. Signup and view all the answers

Which significant claim does Paul make in his early account regarding the resurrection?

Over five hundred people saw Jesus alive. Signup and view all the answers

What transformation did the apostles undergo after the resurrection, according to the text?

They transformed into a fearless community. Signup and view all the answers

How does the claim that Jesus’ body was stolen relate to the evidence of the empty tomb?

It presupposes the existence of an empty tomb. Signup and view all the answers

What is an implication of Paul noting that many witnesses of the resurrection were still alive?

It allows critics to challenge the resurrection claims. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Feast of Passover symbolize in the context of Jesus's resurrection?

His crucifixion Signup and view all the answers

Which biblical event is paralleled with the Feast of Passover?

Abraham’s sacrifice Signup and view all the answers

How is leaven used symbolically in the context of the Feast of Unleavened Bread?

As a representation of sin Signup and view all the answers

What does Jesus represent in relation to the Feast of Firstfruits?

The Firstfruit from the dead Signup and view all the answers

Which commandment is associated with the Feast of Unleavened Bread?

To remove leaven from their homes Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the resurrection, what is the significance of the torn temple curtains?

They indicate a new beginning in worship Signup and view all the answers

Which Old Testament book outlines the commandments for the Feast of Firstfruits?

Leviticus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary theme of the events leading towards Jesus's resurrection?

Redemption and salvation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Events Going Towards His Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is symbolized by three Old Testament feasts: Passover, Unleavened Bread and Firstfruits.
Passover represents the crucifixion of Jesus, who was God's Passover Lamb, fulfilling rituals established in the Old Testament.
The feast of Unleavened Bread, observed immediately after Passover, symbolizes the burial of Jesus, emphasizing themes of "quick rescue" and the removal of sin.
The Feast of Firstfruits, a celebration of the first harvest fruit offered to God, symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus, who is the "firstfruits" of a new creation.

Theories About the Resurrection

The Swoon Theory suggests Jesus did not actually die on the cross but merely fainted and remained in a comatose state until revived in the tomb and subsequently escaped.
The Wrong Tomb Theory proposes that the women who visited the tomb on Easter were confused about Jesus' burial location and encountered an empty tomb, leading to the belief of resurrection.
The Theft Theory, an early rationalistic explanation, alleges that Jesus' apostles stole the body.
The Visionary and Legendary Development Theory argues the resurrection narratives were not historical events but developed from visionary experiences and legends over time.

Evidence of His Resurrection

Jesus' crucifixion around AD 30 is widely accepted, with no credible scholar denying his existence or crucifixion.
The burial of Jesus is confirmed through multiple independent sources: Mark, John, Acts and the early statement cited by Paul.
The discovery of an empty tomb on the third day is confirmed by all Gospels.
The resurrection was central to the early church's preaching and an empty tomb is a pre-requisite for the resurrection claim.
The resurrection is supported by the testimonies of many witnesses, including the women who were considered less reliable in that culture.
The remarkable transformation of the disciples from defeated followers to courageous preachers is considered a significant piece of evidence.

Significance of His Resurrection

The resurrection confirms Jesus' claims about his person and work, validating his divinity.
The resurrection assures salvation, offering hope of eternal life through Jesus.
Jesus' resurrection demonstrates the power over sin and death, offering victory over these forces.
The resurrection of Jesus assures our own future resurrection, promising a reunion with Jesus for believers.

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Description

Explore the significance of the Old Testament feasts in relation to the resurrection of Jesus, including Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Firstfruits. Additionally, learn about various theories surrounding the resurrection, such as the Swoon Theory and the Wrong Tomb Theory, to gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal event in Christianity.