Dr. Gary R. Habermas highlights three significant events that most scholars universally acknowledge. Our Savior laid down His life on the cross. (2) His followers had faith that He triumphed over death, and (3) even those who opposed Him acknowledged His resurrection. One of the commonly discussed perspectives regarding resurrection that seeks to clarify all three of these points is the swoon theory. A limited number of scholars find it credible. The belief posits that Jesus did not fully perish but was near death and subsequently regained life after a brief period in the tomb. One perspective on this theory suggests that He may have been administered a substance that led to the appearance of death.
The challenge with this perspective is that complete crucifixion invariably resulted in death. Throughout the annals of time, there is but one individual noted for having endured a partial crucifixion and emerged alive. Soldiers might bear the consequences of their captive’s escape. That is the reason the legs were broken, to confirm that the individual had truly passed away. Jesus had already passed away. The seasoned warrior ensured this by piercing His heart with a spear.
Many scholars who approach these matters with skepticism find themselves at a loss to explain these three facts. However, they remain unwilling to entertain the notion of resurrection, as they do not hold a belief in the miraculous. Our Savior triumphed over death! The grave could not contain Him. He embodies both resurrection and life (John 11:25). When He assures us of life, His ability to fulfill that promise is unwavering!
Reflect on this: The world was devoid of a solution for death. Let us proclaim the truth we hold dear, that others may experience the profound joy of liberation from the chains of the fear of death.
John 19:34
34 But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water.
