Convinced by witnesses

Jason Nelson

The resurrection wasn’t proved by forensic science. The empty tomb gave up only so many clues. Those on the scene came to different conclusions when they saw the evidence. Mary Magdalene thought the tomb was empty because a gardener moved the body to clean up the place. The presence of angels didn’t establish the fact for others. Thomas had to see it for himself. But over time many came to believe Jesus rose from the dead because the testimony of witnesses was so convincing.

That is the irony of Easter. The pretext for killing Jesus was based on just enough false testimony by a few witnesses to make the case against him. But it was the convincing testimony of a growing number of witnesses that established the fact he was alive. It was the only case the apostles needed to make. “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it” (Acts 2:32).

That is also the legacy of Easter to us. The case for Jesus never rests. Many are still not convinced. We are called to testify by Jesus himself who lives on high and in our hearts. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). 

I’m ready. Jesus is alive and well. I have seen it myself.

Devotion used by permission of Time of Grace®. For more information, visit timeofgrace.org