The Mystery of Jesus' Rest: Was It on the Sabbath or After?
Jesus did not rest in his tomb on the Sabbath or after the Sabbath; He was dead. While He lay in the tomb, He experienced a profound silence and absence of consciousness. This raises several questions, including the nature of the soul and its immortality. This article will explore these questions through a recent Bible translation and notable passages from the New Testament.
The Silent Tomb and the Silent Soul
According to Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 (New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures [Study Edition]):
Ecclesiastes 9:5-6: For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing at all. Nor do they have any more reward, for all memory of them is forgotten.
Also, their love and their hate and their jealousy have already perished, and they no longer have any share in what is done under the sun.
The Bible provides insight into the human experience of death, indicating that those who are dead do not know or remember, and they no longer have any part in what transpires on Earth. As a result, while Jesus lay in the tomb, He was absent from all earthly occurrences.
The Importance of Life
In contrast to the silence of the dead, Ecclesiastes 9:9-10 teaches us about the importance of life.
Ecclesiastes 9:9-10: Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days of your futile life which He has given you under the sun all the days of your futility for that is your lot in life and in your hard work at which you toil under the sun.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do with all your might for there is no work, nor planning, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the Grave that is the common grave of mankind where you are going.
These verses underscore the transient nature of life and the need to make the most of it. Here, the Bible emphasizes the fleeting nature of life on Earth and the importance of being engaged in actions while still alive.
The Soul: Mortal or Immortal?
For those who believe in the immortality of the soul, it is crucial to examine the concept of the soul in the Bible.
Ezekiel 18:4: Look! All the souls—to me they belong. As the soul of the father so also the soul of the son—to me they belong. The soul who sins is the one who will die.
This passage from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures [Study Edition] confirms that the soul is not immortal but belongs to God. The soul of a person is connected to their actions and sins, and ultimately, it is the soul that will die, as stated, "the soul who sins is the one who will die."
Who Resurrected Him?
The Bible clearly mentions that Jesus was raised from the dead by God, not by any other entity.
Acts 2:22-24: Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs which He did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know—Him being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands have crucified and put to death; whom God raised up having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.
According to the New King James Version, God raised Jesus from the dead, not any divine figure other than Himself. This passage clarifies that Jesus was resurrected by the power of God, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of His resurrection.
The Consequences of Belief
Understanding the nature of Jesus' resurrection and the concept of the soul can have significant implications for our beliefs and actions.
By recognizing the truth of the Bible, we can come to terms with the reality of death and the importance of life. We can make the most of our time on Earth, engage in meaningful activities, and strive to live righteously. The resurrection of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder of the hope that lies beyond death and the power of God to overcome even the most formidable challenges.
Remember, the soul you possess is yours and yours alone, and it is under the judgment of God. In following His teachings and beliefs, we can prepare ourselves for the truths beyond the earthly grave.
Conclusion
Jesus' resurrection offers a profound lesson about the nature of human life and its purpose. By examining the Bible and its teachings, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationship with God. The Bible provides clear answers to questions about the soul and immortality, affirming the transient nature of life and the eternal promise of resurrection.
Through faith and understanding, we can find hope and guidance in the face of life's challenges. Let us embrace the teachings of the Bible and live our lives with purpose and meaning.