N.T. Wright, one of the most respected biblical scholars of our time, presents a compelling case for the historical and theological significance of Jesus’ resurrection in his book The Resurrection of the Son of God. This work is a deep exploration of early Christian belief in the resurrection, challenging both skeptical interpretations and alternative theological views. Wright argues that Jesus’ bodily resurrection was not a metaphor or vision but a real, physical event that changed the course of history.
This topic explores Wright’s key arguments, his defense of the resurrection as a historical reality, and the implications of his work for Christian theology.
Who Is N.T. Wright?
N.T. Wright, also known as Nicholas Thomas Wright, is a New Testament scholar, historian, and theologian. He has written extensively on Jesus, Paul, and early Christianity, making a significant impact on both academic and religious communities. His scholarship bridges the gap between historical research and Christian faith, providing evidence-based arguments for core Christian beliefs.
His book The Resurrection of the Son of God is part of his larger series, Christian Origins and the Question of God, where he systematically defends the historical foundation of Christianity.
The Central Argument of The Resurrection of the Son of God
1. Resurrection in the Ancient World
Wright begins by examining the concept of resurrection in Jewish, Greek, and Roman thought. He demonstrates that:
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The Greeks and Romans did not believe in bodily resurrection. For them, death was final, and the afterlife was a shadowy existence.
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Second Temple Judaism (the Jewish world of Jesus’ time) had some belief in resurrection, but it was expected to happen at the end of time-not in the middle of history.
By setting this historical context, Wright argues that the early Christian claim of Jesus’ bodily resurrection was unique and unexpected.
2. The Empty Tomb and the Appearances of Jesus
Wright emphasizes two crucial historical facts that must be explained:
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The Empty Tomb – The Gospels record that Jesus’ tomb was found empty by women, an unlikely fabrication given the cultural context (since women’s testimony was not highly regarded in that era).
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Post-Resurrection Appearances – Jesus appeared to His disciples in physical form, eating and speaking with them. The early accounts describe these encounters as real experiences, not hallucinations.
These two facts together form the foundation of Wright’s argument: the resurrection of Jesus was not a spiritual idea but a physical event.
3. The Transformation of the Disciples
One of the strongest arguments Wright makes is the radical transformation of Jesus’ followers. Before the resurrection, the disciples were fearful and scattered. After encountering the risen Jesus:
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They boldly proclaimed that Jesus was alive and Lord over all.
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Many faced persecution and martyrdom, refusing to renounce their belief.
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The early Christian movement rapidly spread across the Roman world, despite intense opposition.
Wright argues that this dramatic change could not have happened unless the disciples had truly seen and interacted with the resurrected Jesus.
The Resurrection and Christian Theology
1. Jesus as the Son of God
Wright explains that the resurrection confirmed Jesus’ divine identity. The early Christians did not merely see Jesus as a great teacher or prophet; they proclaimed Him as the Son of God, equal with the Father.
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Romans 1:4 – Paul states that Jesus ‘was declared to be the Son of God in power… by his resurrection from the dead.’
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Acts 2:36 – Peter declares, ‘God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.’
For Wright, the resurrection was God’s vindication of Jesus, proving that His teachings were true and His authority divine.
2. The Beginning of God’s New Creation
One of Wright’s most significant contributions is his emphasis on the resurrection as the beginning of new creation. He argues that:
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The resurrection was not just about Jesus coming back to life; it was the launch of God’s new kingdom.
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It signaled the defeat of sin, death, and evil.
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Christians, through their faith in Jesus, participate in this new life and are called to work towards renewing the world.
Wright rejects the idea that Christianity is just about going to heaven after death. Instead, he argues that the resurrection means God’s kingdom is breaking into the present world, bringing restoration and hope.
3. The Resurrection and Justification
Another key theological point is how the resurrection relates to salvation and justification. Wright argues that:
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Justification is not just about personal forgiveness but about being declared right in God’s new covenant family.
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The resurrection shows that Jesus’ death was effective in dealing with sin.
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Believers are now united with Christ in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:4-5).
This perspective shifts the focus from individual salvation to God’s larger plan of restoration for all creation.
Challenges to Wright’s View
While Wright’s work is widely respected, some theologians and scholars challenge his conclusions:
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Skeptical scholars argue that the resurrection was a legend or vision rather than a historical event.
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Some conservative theologians feel Wright downplays personal salvation in favor of a broader focus on new creation.
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Others debate his interpretation of Paul, particularly in relation to justification and the role of faith.
Despite these critiques, Wright’s argument remains one of the most well-researched and persuasive defenses of the resurrection in modern scholarship.
The Importance of Wright’s Work Today
1. Strengthening Christian Faith
Wright’s book provides intellectual confidence for Christians who may struggle with doubts about the resurrection. By grounding his arguments in historical evidence, he demonstrates that belief in Jesus’ resurrection is not just blind faith but a rational conclusion based on historical data.
2. Engaging with Skeptics
For those who question Christianity, Wright offers a serious scholarly challenge. His work shows that:
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The resurrection claim cannot be easily dismissed as a myth.
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Alternative explanations (such as hallucinations or conspiracies) fail to account for the evidence.
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The resurrection remains the best explanation for the rise of early Christianity.
This makes his book valuable for both defenders of the faith and those exploring its truth.
3. Renewing Christian Mission
Wright’s emphasis on the resurrection as new creation calls Christians to actively engage in the world:
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Fighting injustice and poverty.
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Caring for creation.
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Bringing hope and transformation to communities.
His perspective shifts the focus from escaping the world to redeeming and restoring it.
N.T. Wright’s The Resurrection of the Son of God is a landmark work that defends the historical and theological reality of Jesus’ resurrection. Through historical evidence, biblical analysis, and theological reflection, Wright makes a compelling case that:
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The resurrection was a real, bodily event, not a legend or vision.
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It confirmed Jesus as the Son of God and Lord of all.
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It inaugurated God’s new creation, calling believers to participate in renewal.
Wright’s work continues to shape contemporary Christian thought, offering both intellectual depth and spiritual encouragement. For anyone interested in the historical truth of Christianity, this book remains a must-read.