The New Testament doesn’t put a lot of emphasis on the “empty tomb.” In fact, that only led to fear and panic. The fact that Jesus rose bodily from the dead–leaving behind an empty tomb–is true and crucial for the Christian story. Indeed, it is necessary for any true encounter with a risen Lord. But it wasn’t the empty tomb that produced hope in the heart of believers; it was their encounter with the risen Christ. The sight of the empty tomb brought fear and panic; but visions or appearances of Jesus brought hope and joy.

“Having a personal experience with Jesus Christ” formed the basis of the first Christian witness. And it should inform our walk and talk as well. For Jesus is alive and well.

The sermon today is titled "Why Christianity Has Appearances." It is the third installment in our "Matters of First Importance" Series. The Scripture reading is from 1 Corinthians 15:1-7. Originally preached at the West Side Church of Christ (Searcy, AR) on October 23, 2022. All lessons fit under one of 5 broad categories: Begin, Discover, Grow, Learn, and Serve. This sermon is filed under Learn: Christian Doctrine.

Click here if you would like to watch the sermon or read a transcript.

Footnotes (Sources and References Used In Today's Podcast):

• William Lane Craig, "Could the Post-Resurrection Appearances of Jesus Be Simply Hallucinations?" Reasonable Faith.
• Matthew Love, "The Empty Tomb Changes Nothing," Beebe Church of Christ bulletin (May 18, 2017).
• Luke Timothy Johnson, The Writings of the New Testament.

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