The Resurrection – Proven by Jesus’ Enemies
Jim Connell • April 12, 2023
The Jewish leaders had good reason to have Jesus’ body taken down from the cross before sundown on Friday. The next day was the Passover Sabbath, the holiest day of all the Jewish calendar. They surely wanted to eliminate the attention that would otherwise be focused on Jesus Christ.
The Jewish leaders were also acutely aware that Jesus had predicted He would be raised on the third day, so they took extra precautions to guard against that possibility. They didn’t believe He would rise from the dead, but they were afraid His disciples might take the body to keep the movement going. So, they asked Pilate to command that the grave be made secure until the third day.
In accordance with God’s plan, Pilate agreed to give them the security over the grave that they requested. The Roman guards were then assigned to ensure that nothing would disturb the grave until the third day. The guards knew that failure to do so could cost them their lives.
After Jesus had risen, an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled back the stone and sat on it. This caused a violent earthquake and struck such fear in the guards that they shook and became like dead men. (The stone was moved to let the eyewitnesses in, not to let Jesus out.)
As the women left the tomb on Easter morning, some of the guards reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. Then the chief priests met with the elders and devised a plan to explain why the body was missing. Rather than admitting that Jesus had risen, they bribed the guards to lie by saying “His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were sleeping” (Matthew 28:13).
The guards would have naturally been fearful of what the governor would do to them if he heard that they had failed to carry out their duty. So, the chief priests assured the guards that if the governor ever heard about it, they would cover for the guards and satisfy the governor.
There are three convincing proofs of the resurrection that the enemies of Christ unwittingly provide.
First, the disciples weren’t expecting Jesus to be literally raised. And rather than planning such a bold move to take the body, they were hiding in fear that the authorities would be coming after them next. Secondly, it wasn’t possible for the disciples to steal the body with all the security that had been in place to prevent this from happening. Thirdly, the lie being told by the guards assumes the impossible -- that the guards knew that Jesus’ disciples stole His body while they were all asleep.
By Jim Connell
Jim is the founder and retired director of the Lexington Rescue Mission and author of JesusIsLordBlog.com.
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Fear and Doubt
An Unexpected Answer
Calm in the Chaos
A Long Silence
Reminders from the Heart of God I’m always honored to be asked to write a Saturday devotion, and my process is pretty straightforward. I pray and ask God what He wants me to say to people, and the devotion pretty much writes itself. Simple, right? This time was different. I prayed. He didn’t answer. I prayed a LOT. No response. Then late one night, He told me that this devotion is not what He wants me to tell others; it is what He wants to tell me. He knew I have been struggling with a situation and wanted to remind me of some things. My particular situation involves a prodigal. We have recently had some good developments, but also some setbacks and I was getting discouraged wondering if I was doing enough or even doing the right thing at all. Here is what God reminded me: · He’s got this · He loves them even more than I do · It is not my responsibility to “fix” anyone · I just have to keep loving them · His timing is perfect · My responsibility is to God and following His Will Maybe you have been struggling with a situation and wondering if you are doing enough or the right thing. It doesn’t really matter if it involves a prodigal or something completely different; I think my feelings are fairly universal when we struggle. Maybe His words to me will help you, too. If you are not part of a Community Group at IBC, I highly recommend that you find one. Our group has prayed for my prodigal and me for years and it is such a blessing to know that we are not alone in our struggles. And I get the honor of praying for them in their struggles and in their joys. By Jennifer Preston Jennifer and her husband, David, lead the Rural Kings Community Group from IBC Georgetown.
The Eternal Impact of Generosity “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21) When we think about generosity, it’s natural to focus on the blessings that unfold here and now—the help we provide, the joy we feel, the changes we see in the lives of others. But Scripture teaches us that true generosity carries an eternal significance. Every gift, every act of kindness, and every moment spent in selfless service leaves a mark that goes far beyond this life. Jesus Himself encouraged us not to store up treasures on earth, but to invest in “treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20). In other words, the impact of what we give in faith and love never fades away but continues to bear fruit for eternity. Paul reminded the Corinthians that generosity “produces thanksgiving to God” and brings glory to Him (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). Our giving not only meets practical needs but points people to the reality of God’s love and faithfulness. Sometimes, a simple gift or a helping hand can open someone’s heart to the hope of Christ. In this way, our generosity becomes part of God’s great story of redemption and transformation. It’s easy to underestimate the significance of what we offer or to think that only extravagant gifts matter to God. But our Savior noticed and honored the widow who gave two small coins, affirming that her giving was of great worth in God’s eyes (Mark 12:41-44). God sees the heart behind every sacrifice, however small, and promises that nothing done in His name is ever wasted. Reflect today on the eternal impact your generosity can have. When we invest in God’s Kingdom—by supporting ministries, encouraging others, or giving our time to serve—we are planting seeds whose harvest will only be fully revealed in eternity. Imagine the lives touched, the faith strengthened, and the praises offered to God because of your willingness to give. Ask God to help you live with an eternal perspective, seeing your resources as opportunities to participate in His ongoing work. Trust that your generosity, no matter its form or size, is meaningful, powerful, and part of something far greater than yourself—an impact that will last for eternity. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)
The Ripple Effect of Generosity “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38) When we think about the impact of our generosity, it's easy to focus only on the person directly receiving our gift or act of kindness. However, God’s way of working is so much broader and deeper than what we can initially see. Every generous act, no matter how small it may seem, sends ripples outward, touching lives far beyond the first recipient, much like a stone tossed into still water creates widening circles that move beyond the point of impact. One encouraging aspect of generosity is that it is contagious. When we step out to care for someone else—whether with our resources, our time, or our talents—we often inspire others to do the same. Our actions can remind others of God’s love and faithfulness, and sometimes, our willingness to help becomes an invitation for a whole community to get involved. This multiplying effect means that what starts as a single act of giving can quickly grow into a wave of kindness, encouragement, and support that impacts many people. Scripture is full of examples of this “ripple effect.” One person’s generosity often leads to unexpected blessings for others. In John 6, the boy who shared his small lunch witnessed Jesus multiply it to feed thousands. His simple act of sharing didn’t just satisfy his own hunger or that of a couple of friends. Through Jesus, his gift touched the lives of an entire crowd, with food to spare. God specializes in using what we give—even when it feels small or inadequate—and blessing it far beyond our expectations. As we consider the ripple effect of generosity, it’s important to remember that the ultimate results may never be fully seen in this lifetime. Sometimes, our kindness plants seeds that will bear fruit in ways we may never know. We can trust that God takes what we offer, multiplies it, and uses it to write stories of hope, healing, and transformation. This week, reflect on ways your acts of generosity might set new ripples in motion. Even the smallest acts matter. Ask God to help you see the wider impact of your generosity and to trust Him to use your gifts to reach far beyond yourself. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)
Generosity Beyond Money “Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’” (Acts 3:6) Most of us, when we hear the word “generosity,” immediately think of financial giving or charitable donations. But when we look at the teachings and example of Jesus, it becomes clear that generosity is about far more than money—it’s a posture of the heart that touches every area of our lives. In fact, some of the greatest gifts we can give may not cost us a cent, but they can make a world of difference to those around us. Consider the way Jesus gave his time to people who were overlooked or despised by society, like Zacchaeus, the tax collector, or the woman at the well. He listened to their stories, offered compassion, and spoke words of hope. He allowed interruptions to become opportunities for ministry, showing that our time and presence can be powerful acts of generosity. When we are willing to really see and value others, to give them our attention and care, we mirror the heart of Jesus in everyday moments. Generosity can also be expressed through acts of service. When we help a neighbor with chores, deliver a meal to someone who is sick, or volunteer our skills and talents for the benefit of others, we are living out Christ-like generosity. Sometimes the most significant gifts are a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a willingness to carry someone’s burden through prayer or practical support. In Galatians 6:2, Paul calls us to “bear one another’s burdens,” a command that speaks to the power of generous friendship and community. Words, too, can be a gift. A thoughtful note, a sincere compliment, or a prayer offered in faith can lift someone’s spirits and renew their strength. In a world that often leaves people feeling unseen or unappreciated, our words can bring healing and hope. As you reflect today, ask God to open your eyes to the many ways you can be generous, beyond simply opening your wallet. Perhaps He will prompt you to invest your time in someone who is lonely, to offer your abilities where there’s a need, or to share encouraging words with those who are discouraged. True generosity flows from a heart shaped by God’s love and is limited only by our willingness to respond. May we be known as people who give freely and joyfully—not just financially, but in every part of our lives. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)
God’s Provision Through Generosity “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) It’s easy to hold tightly to what we have when resources feel limited. We worry about running out—of money, time, energy, or even emotional strength. This anxiety can quietly shape our attitudes, making us more cautious or even hesitant to give, for fear that if we let go, there won’t be enough left for us. But in Philippians 4:19, Paul reminds us that we serve a God of abundance, not scarcity. He wrote these words to the Philippian church after they chose to give sacrificially to support his ministry, even though their own resources were hardly overflowing. Despite their own needs, they gave to bless others. Paul reassures them—and us—that God sees every sacrifice and is faithful to meet every need. Generosity often requires trust before it reveals its reward. If we look only at our current circumstances—our bank account, our schedules, our energy levels—it’s natural to want to hold back. But Scripture challenges us to place our confidence not in what we can see, but in God’s character and faithfulness. Our acts of generosity don’t “earn” God’s provision; rather, they open our eyes to a greater reality: God is already caring for us in countless ways. So often, when we step out in faith and give, we find our needs met in surprising, creative, and often humbling ways. Sometimes this provision is material; other times, it’s encouragement, community, or a strengthened faith. God’s economy is different from the world’s. In His design, generosity is never wasteful or foolish—it’s the way grace multiplies. What we give, God uses and multiplies far beyond our imaginations, blessing others and, in turn, enriching us in unexpected ways. Paul’s confidence in God’s provision wasn’t theory; it was grounded in experience. He knew that as he and the Philippians trusted God and practiced generosity, God would continue to supply every need—out of the limitless riches of Christ. Whatever your means, remember that God’s hands never run empty, and neither do the hands of those who trust in Him. Ask God to give you wisdom and courage to live generously. Consider: How can you practice generosity today—not just financially, but with your time, your encouragement, your presence? Trust that as you give, He will provide for you, often in ways you could not have anticipated. By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)
