Going Out with Convincing Proofs

In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.  Acts 1:1-3

When it comes to our health, we want proof. We trust medications that have been tested and procedures supported by solid evidence. We don’t want someone experimenting with something as important as our lives.

Luke was a doctor. He understood the importance of evidence. And when he wrote about Jesus’ resurrection, he emphasized that Jesus “gave many convincing proofs that he was alive” (Acts 1:3).

Jesus invited his disciples to touch his wounds. He ate in their presence. He appeared repeatedly over forty days, once to more . . . . than five hundred believers at the same time. This was no wishful thinking. Jesus had truly risen from the dead!

Even the most audacious people won’t claim to have risen from the dead, because it’s so obvious whether it’s true or not. Jesus left the proof.

Luke hadn't personally witnessed those appearances. But he carefully investigated the testimony of those who had. And the Holy Spirit inspired him to record these truths so that generations of Christians could share that certainty.

We walk by faith, not by sight. But our faith isn't built on imagination. It's built on the historical reality of a Savior who lived, died for our sins, and rose again. And because Jesus lives, we know his sacrifice was accepted. Our sins are forgiven. Eternal life is ours.

Go out with confidence! The same Lord who provided convincing proofs of his resurrection has given you a message worth sharing. You don't have to convince people by your own cleverness. Simply share the good news of the risen Savior. The Holy Spirit works through that message to bring others to faith.