Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is the single most transformative event since creation. How can a dead man return to life, walk through walls, eat, disappear, yet appear perfectly normal? How could a doubtful disciple, Thomas, put his hand into Jesus’ side and touch the piercing on Jesus’ resurrected body? How could Jesus ascend to heaven? How did terrified disciples become bold witnesses of Jesus? I have more questions than answers, but if I could explain everything I would not need to worship. There is mystery here.

The context of Acts 2:29-33 is the day of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples and the church was born. Pentecost excited and empowered the disciples. Pentecost confused and bewildered outsiders (they thought the disciples were drunk). The cowardly denier, Peter, who had feared arrest as a follower of Jesus, became a new man. Full of the Holy Spirit, he preached the first sermon in the history of the church. Peter explained the good news. When asked what they could do, Peter said, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself” (Acts 2:38-39).