The doctrine of the resurrection is a cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming the belief in life after death and the ultimate victory over sin and mortality. The credibility of the resurrection is underscored by several accounts of individuals being raised from the dead, as recorded in the Scriptures. These instances serve as precursors and affirmations of the ultimate resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promised resurrection of all believers.

Old Testament Resurrections

1. The Widow’s Son at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:17-24): The prophet Elijah is instrumental in the first recorded resurrection in the Bible. The widow of Zarephath's son falls ill and dies, prompting Elijah to pray fervently to the Lord. The Lord hears Elijah's plea, and the boy's life is restored. This miracle demonstrates God's power over life and death and foreshadows the greater works to come.

2. The Shunammite’s Son (2 Kings 4:18-37): Elisha, the successor of Elijah, performs a similar miracle. The Shunammite woman's son dies suddenly, and she seeks Elisha's help. Through prayer and divine intervention, Elisha revives the child. This event further establishes the prophetic authority and the power of God working through His servants.

3. The Man Raised at Elisha’s Tomb (2 Kings 13:20-21): Even after Elisha's death, his influence continues. A man is hastily buried in Elisha's tomb, and upon contact with Elisha's bones, the man is revived. This miraculous event underscores the enduring power of God and the sanctity associated with His prophets.

New Testament Resurrections

1. The Widow’s Son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17): Jesus encounters a funeral procession for the only son of a widow in Nain. Moved with compassion, He approaches the bier and commands the young man to arise. The dead man sits up and begins to speak, and Jesus presents him to his mother. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' authority over death but also His deep compassion for human suffering.

2. Jairus’ Daughter (Mark 5:21-43): Jairus, a synagogue leader, pleads with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Before they arrive, news comes that the girl has died. Undeterred, Jesus enters the house, takes the girl by the hand, and says, "Talitha koum!" (which means "Little girl, I say to you, get up!"). Immediately, the girl rises and walks. This resurrection highlights Jesus' power and the importance of faith.

3. Lazarus (John 11:1-44): Perhaps the most notable resurrection before Jesus' own, Lazarus' return to life is a profound testament to Jesus' divine authority. After being dead for four days, Lazarus is called forth from the tomb by Jesus. This miracle not only prefigures Jesus' own resurrection but also serves as a pivotal moment in His ministry, leading many to believe in Him.

4. Tabitha (Acts 9:36-42): Also known as Dorcas, Tabitha is a beloved disciple in Joppa who falls ill and dies. The apostle Peter is summoned, and after praying, he commands her to rise. Tabitha opens her eyes and sits up, leading many in Joppa to believe in the Lord. This event illustrates the continued power of the resurrection through the apostles.

5. Eutychus (Acts 20:7-12): During Paul's lengthy discourse in Troas, a young man named Eutychus falls from a window and is presumed dead. Paul embraces him and assures the people that he is alive. Eutychus' revival serves as a testament to the life-giving power present in the early church.

These accounts collectively affirm the credibility of the resurrection, showcasing God's sovereign power over life and death. They serve as tangible demonstrations of the hope and promise of eternal life, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20).Matthew 9:25
But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 27:53
And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared to many.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 7:14
And he came and touched the bier: and they that bore him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say to you, Arise.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 11:44
And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave clothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus said to them, Loose him, and let him go.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Hebrews 11:35
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Doctrine of Jesus Christ.
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Why is the truth of the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ so important? | GotQuestions.org

Why is the resurrection of Jesus Christ important? | GotQuestions.org

When will the Resurrection take place? | GotQuestions.org

Resurrection: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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