After Jesus Was Crucified What Happened

The air hung heavy with sorrow and disbelief as the sun dipped below the horizon on that fateful Friday. The earth had trembled, the sky had darkened, and the veil in the Temple had torn in two, marking the earth-shattering moment when Jesus of Nazareth, whom many believed to be the Messiah, breathed his last on the cross. "It is finished," He had declared, and with those words, a new chapter in history began. But what happened after Jesus was crucified? What unfolded in the days, weeks, and years following that pivotal event?

The immediate aftermath of the crucifixion was a whirlwind of activity, fear, and uncertainty. The disciples, who had pledged their loyalty to Jesus, were now scattered, their hopes seemingly dashed. The religious authorities, who had orchestrated Jesus's execution, breathed a collective sigh of relief, believing they had extinguished a dangerous movement. Yet, unbeknownst to them, the story was far from over. The events that followed the crucifixion of Jesus are not just a historical account but the cornerstone of Christian faith, influencing billions across the globe.

Main Subheading

The narrative immediately following the crucifixion is crucial to understanding Christian doctrine. The Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, offer detailed accounts of the days that followed. These texts, combined with historical context, help paint a clearer picture of what happened after Jesus was crucified.

The execution itself was a brutal affair, a common Roman practice designed to inflict maximum suffering and deter dissent. Jesus was crucified between two criminals, a public spectacle meant to humiliate and break the spirit of any who dared challenge Roman authority. But even in death, Jesus's followers believed there was something extraordinary about Him. They witnessed signs and portents that indicated this was no ordinary execution. The centurion present at the crucifixion, a Roman officer, famously declared, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39). This declaration underscores the profound impact Jesus had, even on those tasked with carrying out His execution.

Comprehensive Overview

The Burial

Following the crucifixion, Jewish custom dictated that the body be buried before sundown, especially since it was the eve of the Sabbath. Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and respected member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish ruling council), and a secret follower of Jesus, stepped forward. He sought permission from Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, to take Jesus’s body down from the cross. Pilate, surprised that Jesus had died so quickly (crucifixion often took days), granted Joseph's request.

Joseph, along with Nicodemus, another secret disciple, carefully took the body down and prepared it for burial. They wrapped it in linen cloths with spices, according to Jewish burial customs. The Gospels emphasize the care and respect shown to Jesus’s body, highlighting the love and devotion His followers had for Him. The tomb itself was a new tomb, hewn out of rock, located in a garden near the site of the crucifixion. This detail is significant because it meant the tomb had not been previously used, thus avoiding any confusion about its occupant. A large stone was rolled in front of the entrance to seal it. This was a common practice for tombs in that era, intended to protect the body from animals and grave robbers.

The Guard

Despite the burial, the religious authorities remained uneasy. They remembered Jesus's prophecies about rising from the dead and feared His disciples might steal the body and claim He had resurrected. Therefore, they approached Pilate and requested a guard to be stationed at the tomb. Pilate granted their request, and a contingent of Roman soldiers was assigned to guard the tomb, ensuring no one tampered with it. The presence of the guard is a significant detail because it acknowledges the fact that the tomb was secured, and any subsequent claims of resurrection would have to account for the Roman guard's presence.

The religious leaders also took the precaution of sealing the stone with the Roman seal, further preventing any unauthorized access. Breaking the seal was a serious offense, punishable by Roman law. These measures highlight the authorities' determination to prevent any claims of resurrection and maintain the status quo.

The Discovery

Early on the first day of the week, Sunday, several women, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, went to the tomb to further anoint Jesus’s body with spices. They were concerned about how they would move the large stone blocking the entrance. However, when they arrived, they found the stone had already been rolled away. The Gospels describe the scene differently, but they all agree that the tomb was open.

Inside the tomb, the women found it empty. Some accounts mention angels appearing to them, declaring that Jesus had risen from the dead and instructing them to tell the disciples. The women, filled with fear and amazement, hurried away from the tomb to deliver the message. Their initial reaction was one of disbelief and confusion, but they were obedient to the angelic instruction.

The Resurrection

The central event after Jesus was crucified is, without a doubt, His resurrection. The Gospels unequivocally state that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion. This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith, validating Jesus's claims of divinity and offering hope for eternal life to believers. The resurrection is not merely a resuscitation of a corpse; it is a transformation, a new kind of existence. The resurrected Jesus possessed a glorified body, capable of appearing and disappearing, passing through walls, and transcending the limitations of earthly existence.

While the Gospels provide accounts of the empty tomb and angelic appearances, they do not offer a detailed description of the resurrection itself. This absence suggests that the resurrection is beyond human comprehension, a miraculous event that transcends the natural order. The emphasis is placed on the results of the resurrection: the empty tomb, the appearances of Jesus to His disciples, and the transformation of their lives.

The Appearances

Following His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and other followers on multiple occasions over a period of forty days. These appearances were not fleeting glimpses but sustained encounters, during which Jesus interacted with His disciples, taught them, and commissioned them to spread the Gospel to all nations. The accounts of these appearances vary slightly in the Gospels, but they all share common themes. Jesus often appeared unexpectedly, sometimes in familiar settings, and sometimes in disguise. He ate with His disciples, allowing them to touch Him, reassuring them that He was not a ghost or an illusion.

One of the most significant appearances was to Thomas, who initially doubted the resurrection. Thomas declared that he would not believe unless he could see the nail marks in Jesus’s hands and put his finger where the nails had been. Jesus appeared to Thomas and invited him to do so. Thomas, overwhelmed by the reality of the resurrected Christ, confessed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). This encounter is a powerful testament to the tangible reality of the resurrection and its transformative effect on those who encountered the risen Christ.

The Great Commission

Before His ascension into heaven, Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission, instructing them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He had commanded. This commission was not merely a suggestion but a mandate, a call to action that would shape the course of history. The disciples were tasked with spreading the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, to the ends of the earth.

The Great Commission is a central tenet of Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of evangelism and discipleship. It is a call to share the love and grace of God with others and to invite them into a relationship with Jesus Christ. The disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, embarked on this mission with courage and determination, facing persecution and hardship but ultimately transforming the world with the message of the Gospel.

Trends and Latest Developments

In modern scholarship, various perspectives exist regarding the events after Jesus was crucified. Some scholars focus on the historical context, examining the political, social, and religious factors that influenced the events. Others delve into the theological implications, exploring the meaning and significance of the resurrection for Christian faith. Still others analyze the literary aspects of the Gospels, examining the narratives and their development over time.

One significant trend in recent years is the increased emphasis on the Jewish context of Jesus's life and ministry. Scholars are exploring the ways in which Jesus's teachings and actions were rooted in Jewish tradition and how His followers initially understood Him within a Jewish framework. This perspective sheds new light on the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection, helping to understand the early Christian movement's relationship with Judaism.

Another trend is the growing interest in the historical reliability of the Gospels. While some scholars question the accuracy of the Gospel accounts, others argue that they contain historically reliable information. They point to the archaeological evidence, the consistency of the narratives, and the willingness of early Christians to suffer and die for their beliefs as evidence of the Gospels' credibility.

Tips and Expert Advice

Understanding what happened after Jesus was crucified requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some tips for gaining a deeper understanding:

Read the Gospels carefully: The Gospels are the primary sources for understanding the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection. Read them thoughtfully and critically, paying attention to the details and the different perspectives offered by each Gospel writer.
Study the historical context: Understanding the political, social, and religious context of first-century Palestine is essential for interpreting the Gospel narratives accurately. Research the Roman occupation, Jewish customs and beliefs, and the various religious factions that existed at the time.
Consider different perspectives: Be aware that there are different interpretations of the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection. Read scholarly articles and books that present different viewpoints and consider the evidence and arguments for each.
Engage with theological discussions: The resurrection is a central theological concept in Christianity. Explore the theological implications of the resurrection, its significance for Christian faith, and its relevance to contemporary issues.
Visit historical sites: If possible, visit the historical sites in Jerusalem and the surrounding area associated with the crucifixion and resurrection. Walking in the footsteps of Jesus and His disciples can provide a deeper appreciation for the events that took place there.

FAQ

Q: What is the significance of the empty tomb?

A: The empty tomb is a crucial piece of evidence for the resurrection. It suggests that Jesus's body was not simply stolen or misplaced but that something extraordinary happened.

Q: Why did Jesus appear to His disciples after the resurrection?

A: Jesus appeared to His disciples to reassure them that He was truly alive, to teach them, and to commission them to spread the Gospel.

Q: What is the Great Commission?

A: The Great Commission is Jesus's command to His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands.

Q: How did the events after Jesus was crucified affect His followers?

A: The events after the crucifixion transformed Jesus's followers from a group of frightened and disillusioned individuals into courageous and determined witnesses of the Gospel.

Q: What is the Christian view of salvation?

A: Salvation is the belief that through Jesus Christ's sacrifice, humanity can be saved from sin and death and receive eternal life. The events after Jesus was crucified are essential to this view.

Conclusion

The events after Jesus was crucified are the foundation upon which Christian faith is built. The burial, the empty tomb, the resurrection, and the appearances of Jesus to His disciples are not just historical events but transformative moments that changed the course of history. These events offer hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life to all who believe. By understanding the historical context, engaging with theological discussions, and reading the Gospels carefully, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the profound significance of these events.

Now, consider what these events mean for you. How does the story of the crucifixion and resurrection impact your life, your beliefs, and your actions? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below, and let us continue the conversation about the enduring legacy of Jesus Christ.