Belief and the Defeat of Death

Published April 7, 2007 IN THEORY Belief and the Defeat of Death Q: Two Thousand years after Christ's death, people still debate the resurrection. Many remain steadfast that it was a historical event, but others, even Christians, believe that such a Biblical story can't be taken as historical fact, but rather as metaphorical. What do you think? A: No question about it. Unequivocally, yes. The resurrection is a historical fact. I know that it's a bizarre concept especially for us in Glendale; we're surrounded by two Forest Lawns on both sides of the city. Not one body going in has ever come back out of those green hills. And as much as Grandview has dominated headlines, it hasn't been because of rejuvenated corpses. So what does this say about Jesus' Resurrection? Absolutely nothing. You either accept it or you don't. One of the strongest arguments for the resurrection comes from my tradition. The Apostle Thaddeus came to Armenia proclaiming Jesus' resurrection. He was executed for his belief. The Apostle Bartholomew came five years later in 46A.D. They killed him as well for the same reason: claiming that Jesus had resurrected. People don't give up their lives for hoaxes. They don't submit themselves to flaying, flogging and other tortures just to maintain a lie; especially when they're alone and could easily change their story. In fact, all of the Apostles were martyred for their belief in the resurrection, except for John, who ended up in prison. But for all the proofs and arguments there are (and there are many), I find they are not necessary. You either accept it or you don't. Jesus rose because good always wins out over evil. The resurrection happened because love is more powerful than hate, life is more enduring than death. This is the basis of our faith as Christians. It is built upon the victory found in the Resurrection. Happy Easter. FATHER VAZKEN MOVSESIAN Armenian Church In His Shoes Mission