Is Jesus Alive Today? Exploring the Evidence and Beliefs

The question “Is Jesus Alive?” is one that holds profound significance, not just for believers, but for anyone exploring the core tenets of Christianity. Jesus’ resurrection is the defining event in Christian history, transforming the way we understand life, death, and the afterlife. But beyond the question of physical life, there’s a deeper inquiry—how is Jesus alive today, and what does that mean for humanity?

In this post, we will explore the spiritual reality of Jesus being alive, looking into His pre-existence, resurrection, ascension, and current state. We will also dive into the promise of eternal life He offers to His followers. Through scriptural insights, we will uncover the truth behind His ongoing life and presence in the world.

Jesus’ Pre-Existence and Eternal Life

Before Jesus walked the earth, He existed eternally with God the Father. His pre-existence is highlighted in the Bible, demonstrating that Jesus is not just a historical figure but part of the divine Trinity. Understanding His eternal nature is key to recognizing why He holds the power over life and death.

Verses:

• John 1:1-2: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.”
• John 8:58: “Very truly I tell you… before Abraham was born, I am!”

Additional Insights:

• Jesus’ eternal existence means He is not bound by time, affirming His divine nature.
• His relationship with God the Father is unique, and His role in creation is foundational to the Christian faith.
• Jesus’ pre-existence supports the concept that He is the unchanging and eternal Savior.
• The idea of eternal life is closely tied to Jesus’ eternal nature, making Him the source of that life.
• His eternal existence also validates His authority over creation and His resurrection.

The Promise of Eternal Life

In John 11:25, Jesus makes a profound promise to all who believe in Him: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” This promise of eternal life is not just about an afterlife, but about a present reality for Christians—a life empowered by Jesus that extends beyond physical death.

Verses:

• John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
• John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

Additional Insights:

• Eternal life begins the moment someone believes in Jesus, transforming their life here on earth.
• Jesus offers more than just existence after death—He offers a life of purpose, meaning, and relationship with God.
• Believing in Jesus is the key to unlocking eternal life, making faith in Him central to Christianity.
• The promise of eternal life assures believers of a future hope beyond this world’s struggles.
• This gift of eternal life is also available to anyone who accepts Jesus as Savior, making the message universally accessible.

The Breath of Life and the Spirit

Jesus’ role as the giver of life is also closely tied to the Holy Spirit, who continues to empower believers today. The breath of life is not just a physical act, but a spiritual reality that Christians experience through the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence.

Verses:

• John 20:22: “And with that, He breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'”
• Romans 8:11: “And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you.”

Additional Insights:

• The Holy Spirit is the ongoing presence of Jesus in the lives of believers.
• Jesus’ breathing on His disciples symbolizes the imparting of spiritual life and empowerment.
• The Holy Spirit helps believers live out their faith, empowering them to reflect Christ’s love and truth.
• Through the Spirit, believers are connected to Jesus, experiencing His presence and guidance in everyday life.
• The Spirit also guarantees eternal life, as He is the seal of God’s promises for the believer.

Messianic Judaism vs. Christianity Differences and Similarities

Jesus’ Death and Resurrection

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the cornerstones of Christian belief. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was necessary for the forgiveness of sins, and His resurrection confirmed His victory over sin and death. This act made possible the eternal life He promised.

Verses:

• Matthew 28:6: “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.”

Additional Insights:

• Jesus’ resurrection was a victory over the power of sin and death, giving believers hope for their own resurrection.
• The resurrection affirms the truth of Jesus’ divine identity and His ability to give eternal life.
• Jesus’ victory over death demonstrated God’s power and His plan for salvation.
• His resurrection is the proof of God’s promises, offering assurance to all who trust in Jesus.
• The resurrection invites believers to live in the power of the resurrected Christ, transforming how they view life, death, and eternity.

Jesus’ Ascension and Current State

After His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, returning to His place of glory with the Father. Though He is not physically present on earth, His presence is continually with His followers through the Holy Spirit, and He is seated at the right hand of God, interceding for believers.

Verses:

• Acts 1:9: “After He said this, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight.”
• Hebrews 12:2: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Additional Insights:

• Jesus’ ascension signifies the completion of His earthly mission and the beginning of His heavenly reign.
• As the intercessor, Jesus continues to advocate on behalf of His people before God.
• The ascension is a promise that Jesus will return in glory, bringing fulfillment to God’s plan.
• Jesus’ current state in heaven assures believers that He is actively working on their behalf.
• The ascension also reminds Christians that their hope is not in earthly things but in heavenly promises.

The Significance of Jesus’ Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it has ongoing implications for Christians today. It confirms Jesus as the Son of God and establishes Him as the source of eternal life. The resurrection is also a promise of hope and victory for those who follow Him.

Verses:

• Romans 6:4: “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
• 1 Peter 1:3: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Additional Insights:

• The resurrection is foundational to the Christian faith; without it, the hope of eternal life would be in vain.
• Jesus’ resurrection assures believers of their own future resurrection.
• The resurrection gives believers a new identity and purpose in Christ.
• It demonstrates the power of God to overcome even death itself, offering hope to all.
• The resurrection empowers Christians to live boldly, knowing that victory over sin and death is already secured.

Why This Matters

Understanding that Jesus is alive impacts every area of a believer’s life. His resurrection offers hope, purpose, and an eternal perspective that transforms daily living. The assurance of eternal life in Jesus is central to the Christian faith, providing the foundation for how believers navigate the challenges of life.

Verses:

• John 11:25-26: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.'”
• 1 John 5:11-12: “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”

Additional Insights:

• Jesus’ resurrection shifts our perspective on death, showing it is not the end but a passage to eternal life.
• The hope in Jesus’ resurrection encourages believers to live with joy, peace, and purpose.
• Understanding Jesus’ life gives Christians a sense of security, knowing that their salvation is secured.
• It provides assurance that Jesus is with His followers through all life’s trials, offering comfort and guidance.
• The truth of Jesus’ resurrection is the anchor of faith, giving believers a solid foundation in an uncertain world.

Think About It

As you reflect on the question “Is Jesus Alive?”, consider the deep spiritual implications for your life. The resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s a living reality that offers hope, transformation, and eternal life. How does this truth shape your understanding of life, death, and eternity? Think about how it impacts your decisions, relationships, and personal faith journey.

Verses:

• Colossians 3:1: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.”
• Revelation 1:18: “I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”

Additional Insights:

• Jesus’ ongoing life is not just a belief but a reality that empowers believers today.
• Reflecting on Jesus’ resurrection helps Christians gain a deeper appreciation for the power of God in their lives.
• This truth encourages believers to live with boldness and confidence, knowing they serve a risen Savior.
• The resurrection gives meaning to daily life, as every moment is an opportunity to live for Christ.
• Ultimately, understanding that Jesus is alive transforms the way believers face challenges, knowing they are never alone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question “Is Jesus Alive?” is not just a theological inquiry, but a life-changing truth that shapes the Christian faith. Through His pre-existence, resurrection, and eternal life, Jesus offers a promise of hope and eternal life for all who believe in Him.

His ascension and current state as our intercessor remind us that He is always with us, guiding and empowering us through the Holy Spirit. The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, providing believers with victory over sin, death, and the assurance of a future hope.

Reflecting on Jesus’ ongoing life helps us live with purpose, peace, and confidence, knowing that the risen Savior is at work in our lives today. As you continue to explore this profound truth, let it inspire you to embrace the transformative power of Jesus’ life and resurrection.