Tag: empty tomb

Previewing the Minimal Facts Critique of the Resurrection

kevingdrendel2 Comments

canstockphoto18553034

If Jesus Christ was not raised from the dead, Christians are to be pitied above all people. These are not my words, or even the words of a famous pastor or teacher. These are the words of Paul right out of his letter to the Corinthians:

[I]f Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we testified [concerning] God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise…. and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.  If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied. (1 Cor. 15:14-15, 17-19)

Christianity, far from being closed to reason, invites investigation. The importance of reason is built into the greatest commandment: love God with all your heart, soul and mind! Continue reading “Previewing the Minimal Facts Critique of the Resurrection” →

Women and the Resurrection Story

The centrality of women in the resurrection story unmistakable, and at least two very significant points flow from that point.

kevingdrendel1 Comment

lightstock_79956_xsmall_user_7997290

Women have suffered under the dominion and control of males since the beginning of recorded history (and before no doubt). The culture in the US today, though, is much different than at any other time in history. Women have gained status they have never before had, As an example, about 65% of all college students in the US are women. The political, cultural and societal winds have shifted toward equality.

Most of the world, however, is not even close to that benchmark yet. In Muslim countries, in particular, women continue to be treated in ways that more “western” sensibilities consider backward and even barbarian. But, the historical subjugation of women is not just a Muslim thing; it has been very widespread and pervasive going far back in time.

This may seem like an odd backdrop to the resurrection story, but women and the resurrection story are forever intertwined in one of the most progressive and remarkably dignified ways in ancient literature.

Continue reading “Women and the Resurrection Story” →