Resurrection Miracles of Jesus
Quick Summary
Jesus performed several resurrection miracles, not only rising from the dead Himself, but also raising others to life. These events offer deep theological meaning about His power over death, the nature of eternal life, and the inauguration of God's kingdom on earth.
Introduction
Among all the miracles attributed to Jesus, the resurrection miracles are perhaps the most awe-inspiring and theologically significant. These events aren't just displays of divine power. They are signs of hope, demonstrations of Jesus' identity as the Son of God, and previews of the resurrection promise extended to all who believe.
This post will outline the specific resurrection miracles of Jesus recorded in the Gospels, highlight their meaning, and provide links to explore related miracles and theological themes.
Resurrection Miracles Performed by Jesus
1. Raising of Jairus’ Daughter (Mark 5:21–43; Matthew 9:18–26; Luke 8:40–56)
Jairus, a synagogue leader, pleaded with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Before they could reach her, she died. Jesus told the mourners, "She is not dead but sleeping," and raised her by taking her hand and saying, "Little girl, get up!" (Mark 5:41, NRSV).
This miracle demonstrated Jesus' compassion and authority even over death, offering hope to grieving families and foreshadowing future resurrections.
2. Raising of the Widow's Son at Nain (Luke 7:11–17)
This is the only Gospel account of this miracle. As Jesus approached the town of Nain, he encountered a funeral procession for a young man, the only son of a widow. Moved by compassion, Jesus said, "Do not weep." Then He touched the bier and commanded, "Young man, I say to you, rise!" (Luke 7:14, NRSV).
The crowd was filled with awe, declaring, "A great prophet has risen among us!" This miracle highlighted Jesus' deep empathy and his power to restore life in moments of despair.
3. Raising of Lazarus (John 11:1–44)
Perhaps the most well-known resurrection miracle apart from Jesus' own, this story centers on Lazarus of Bethany, the brother of Mary and Martha. Jesus intentionally delayed his arrival, arriving four days after Lazarus had died. Standing at the tomb, He wept, then prayed and cried out, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43, NRSV).
Lazarus walked out of the tomb, still bound in burial clothes. This miracle foreshadowed Jesus' own resurrection and became a pivotal moment leading to the plot against His life (John 11:45–53).
The Resurrection of Jesus Himself
The resurrection of Jesus is the climactic miracle in all of Scripture. All four Gospels affirm that after being crucified and buried, Jesus rose on the third day (Matthew 28:1–10; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–18). The empty tomb, post-resurrection appearances, and transformation of His disciples are central to Christian belief.
Unlike the other resurrections He performed, Jesus' resurrection is permanent and glorified. It marks the defeat of sin and death and inaugurates new creation. Paul calls Christ "the first fruits of those who have died" (1 Corinthians 15:20, NRSV), indicating that His resurrection is a promise of what's to come for all believers.
Post-Resurrection Appearances
Though not resurrection miracles in the same sense, Jesus’ appearances after His resurrection confirmed the reality of His victory. He appeared to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, Thomas, two followers on the road to Emmaus, and more than 500 people at once (1 Corinthians 15:6).
These appearances helped establish the early church’s conviction and mission. They are essential to understanding the scope and consequence of resurrection in the biblical witness.
Resurrection as a Sign of the Kingdom
Each resurrection Jesus performed was a sign pointing beyond itself. They demonstrated that death does not have the final word. In each case, Jesus turned mourning into joy, revealing the heart of God for restoration and life. The resurrection miracles are not just isolated wonders—they are previews of the full redemption to come.
Academic Citations
Wright, N. T. The Resurrection of the Son of God. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2003. A comprehensive theological and historical examination of Jesus' resurrection.
Allison, Dale C. Resurrecting Jesus: The Earliest Christian Tradition and Its Interpreters. Bloomsbury T&T Clark, 2005. Focuses on the New Testament witness to resurrection and its interpretive history.
FAQs
How many resurrection miracles did Jesus perform?
Jesus raised three people from the dead during His ministry: Jairus' daughter, the widow's son at Nain, and Lazarus. He also rose from the dead Himself, the ultimate resurrection miracle.
Is the resurrection of Jesus different from the others?
Yes. The others were temporary restorations to life. Jesus' resurrection was eternal and glorified, marking the defeat of death itself.
Why are these miracles important today?
They serve as signs of God's power and promise. They offer hope that death is not the end and point to the future resurrection promised to believers.
