May 2

PART II.—Luke 24:5—5

WE have noticed the improbable account given by the Roman guard, of the removal of Christ's body. Let us now consider the evidence given by Christ's disciples, as to this matter. Who are the witnesses? They are the friends of Jesus, it must be conceded, but still it is obvious, that their testimony is worthy of all acceptation. They were plain, honest persons; they had no influence to employ, nor riches to bribe, by which they could expect to succeed in establishing such an imposition as that of Christ's resurrection. Besides, they were so influenced by fear and despondency, that only a few days ago, when Christ was apprehended, they all forsook him and fled. Consider their statement, it is as to a matter of fact, they affirm that Christ is risen. And they do so, because they have seen him, heard his voice, and had a full opportunity of minutely surveying his person. Consider the place, and time of this testimony. They declare these things in Jerusalem, where he had been condemned and put to death. Where all his enemies resided. Where the priests were. Where Pilate was. Where dwelt the soldiers, who had watched his tomb. And these things they declare immediately; this is only the third day from his death. Calvary is yet crimsoned with his blood. And yet they publicly affirm that he is risen from the dead. And for forty years after this event, the doctrine of Christ's resurrection is preached in the temple, synagogues, and streets of the city of Jerusalem. Then, what motives could influence these witnesses? In preaching Christ's resurrection, they would be branded as fools and madmen. They would be deserted by friends, hated by enemies, and persecuted by all. And in the defence of this doctrine, they freely sacrificed all earthly goods, and most of them, at last, even life itself. Then observe, these witnesses were numerous. Several women saw Christ, and conversed with him; the two disciples going to Emmaus, saw him. He was seen of the eleven, on several occasions; then of five hundred brethren at once; and last of all, by Saul, the persecutor of the church, as one born out of due time. Finally, consider the effects which the preaching of Christ's resurrection produced. It was the means of breaking the hearts, and converting the souls of three thousand Jerusalem sinners in one day. And in tens of thousands of instances, it has proved the power of God to the salvation of immortal souls. Yes, unnumbered multitudes have felt this doctrine, to be spirit and life to their souls.