How Christianity understands the death and resurrection of Jesus
1. Explain how Christianity understands the death and resurrection of Jesus to be at the heart
of the Gospel message. Identify and explain important elements from the Gospels about
these events. Identify and explain important elements of the Old Testament which are
related to these events.
2. Explain the importance of the Exodus event in Jewish history. Explain how Christianity
views the Exodus as symbolic for the liberation which Jesus can bring to all human
beings.
3. Explain how the teachings and miracles of Jesus together give clarity about the nature of
His ministry. Explain why the Church’s understanding that Jesus is both fully God and
fully man makes His life, death, and resurrection unique.
4. Explain how Christianity sees continuity in God’s act of creation, covenant with the
Jewish people, Incarnation, and establishment of the Church.
Sample Solution
In Christianity, the death and resurrection of Jesus is essential to understanding the Gospel message. According to the Gospels, Jesus’ death was a result of his acts of rebellion against the oppressive Roman rule and Jewish religious authorities (Mark 15:1-41). He was seen as a threat to their power, so they conspired to have him crucified as punishment for challenging their authority. This event serves as an example of how even in times of great suffering, one can keep faith with God and remain steadfast in one’s beliefs.
However, Christianity also believes that Christ overcame death by rising on Easter Sunday which is celebrated every year around the world (John 20: 1-18). In this way it symbolizes hope that no matter what troubles or difficulties one may experience throughout life there will eventually be redemption. It also signifies renewal for Christians who look forward each Easter season for spiritual awakening and rejuvenation.
The Old Testament contains several references related to these events. For instance Isaiah 53 speaks about a “suffering servant” who will suffer unjustly yet ultimately prevail over evil forces through resurrection (Isaiah 53:3-12). Similarly Psalm 22 foreshadows Christ’s crucifixion with its vivid description of being forsaken by God while still clinging onto faith despite all odds (Psalm 22: 1-31).
In conclusion, Christianity sees Jesus’s death and resurrection at the heart of its gospel message since it provides evidence of salvation through faithfulness and perseverance even during times when all seems lost. Moreover, these events are supported by passages from both Old and New Testaments which serve as prophetic warnings about Christ’s coming martyrdom yet ultimate triumph over sin leading faithful believers towards eternal life in Heaven.
