How should John 20:6 inspire us to investigate and strengthen our beliefs? Setting the Scene “Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there” (John 20:6). Why Peter’s Action Matters • Peter does not linger outside; he steps in. • He confronts the evidence—empty tomb, orderly linens—showing that faith is never blind but grounded in reality (cf. 2 Peter 1:16). • His example instructs believers to move beyond hearsay and personally engage with the facts of Christ’s resurrection. Biblical Pattern of Careful Investigation • Luke researched “everything carefully from the beginning” so Theophilus would “know the certainty” (Luke 1:1-4). • The Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true” (Acts 17:11). • Proverbs 25:2 commends searching matters out; God invites diligent study. • John later writes, “That which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes… we proclaim” (1 John 1:1-3), reinforcing eyewitness credibility. Seeing the Evidence Strengthens Faith • The neatly placed linens ruled out grave robbery, underscoring a bodily resurrection. • Peter’s inspection prepared him for bolder witness (Acts 2:32). • Investigated truth transforms skepticism into conviction, just as “the other disciple… saw and believed” (John 20:8). Practical Ways to Investigate Today • Read Gospel resurrection accounts side-by-side, noting harmonies and fulfilled prophecies (Isaiah 53; Psalm 16:10). • Study historical data: empty tomb testimony, martyrdom of eyewitnesses, early creeds (1 Corinthians 15:3-7). • Compare Scripture with credible archaeology and manuscript evidence. • Memorize key resurrection passages to anchor the heart in truth. • Discuss findings in fellowship, sharpening one another (Proverbs 27:17). Strengthening Belief Through Ongoing Engagement • Regular exposure to Scripture renews the mind (Romans 12:2). • Honest questions met with biblical answers fortify assurance (Jude 1:20). • Living out discovered truth—obedience and proclamation—cements conviction (James 1:22-25). Conclusion: Moving Forward Like Peter Step into the “tomb,” inspect the evidence Scripture provides, and let informed faith fuel steadfast devotion and courageous witness. |
    |