Witnesses of the Risen King
“After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.” — 1 Corinthians 15:6
One of the most astonishing claims of the Christian faith is not simply that Jesus rose from the dead — but that He appeared to many witnesses. Not in secret. Not to just one or two. But to more than five hundred believers at once.
Paul boldly reminds the Corinthians of this truth, adding that most were still alive at the time of his writing. In effect, he is saying: “You can go and ask them yourself!” The resurrection was a public reality, not a private vision.
Matthew Henry beautifully explains why Jesus appeared to so many: “Christ showed himself alive, not only to one or two, but to multitudes; for He would leave no room for fair doubt concerning it.” Henry’s words remind us that Jesus’ many appearances were an act of mercy — strengthening the faith of His followers and establishing an unshakable foundation for generations to come.
Today, we live by faith and not by sight. Yet our faith rests on the sturdy testimony of those who saw, touched, and heard the risen Lord. The empty tomb is not the end of the story. It is the beginning of a new creation, testified to by hundreds, proclaimed to billions, and still transforming hearts today.
When doubts and fears arise, we can stand firm, remembering the great cloud of witnesses who saw Jesus alive and never turned back, even when it cost them their lives.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the great cloud of witnesses who saw You alive and shared the Good News at the cost of everything. Strengthen my faith today. Help me to live boldly, knowing that my faith is not built on myth, but on the unshakable reality of Your resurrection. Amen.
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