Introduction

Question 1

Whare are 4 reasons why the resurrection is important?

Answer 1

1. Belief in it is required for salvation (Rom 10:9)
2. If it did not occur we are lost (1 Cor 15:17)
3. What Jesus used to validate his teachings (Matt 12:38-40)
4. It was the chief evidence provided by the apostles that Christianity is true (Acts 17:2-3)

Question 2

What are 3 reasons supporting the likelihood that Jesus predicted his resurrection?

Answer 2

1. Embarrassing testimony concerning the disciples and the women regarding the resurrection. An invented story would not include such things. (Mark 8:31-33, Luke 24:10)
2. Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man” in connection to his predictions of his resurrection (Mark 8:31)
3. Jesus’ predictions are multiply attested to (Matt 12:38-40, Mark 8:31-32, Luke 9:22, John 2:18-21, Mark 14:58, Luke 11:29-30)

Question 3

What is the “Minimal Facts Approach?”

Answer 3

Considers only those facts that strongly supported by the evidence and conceded by almost every scholar, including skeptics. There are 4+1 minimal facts.

Question 4

What are the 4+1 minimal facts?

Answer 4

1. Jesus died by crucifixion.
2. The disciples believed that Jesus rose from the dead.
3. Conversion of the church persecutor Paul.
4. Conversion of the skeptic James.
   +1. The tomb was empty