What Old Testament events support the belief in resurrection mentioned in Acts 26:8? Paul’s Challenge, Rooted in Scripture Acts 26:8: “Why would any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” Paul’s question assumes his hearers already know the Hebrew Scriptures record God’s power to restore life and promise future resurrection. Early Hints in the Patriarchs • Genesis 22 – Abraham and Isaac – 22:5, “we will return to you,” shows Abraham expected Isaac back alive. – Hebrews 11:19 explains the logic: God “was able even to raise him from the dead.” • Genesis 37–50 – Joseph’s bones – Joseph made Israel swear to carry his bones to Canaan (50:25). He expected God’s future redemption of the body. Life Returned through the Prophets • 1 Kings 17:17-24 – Elijah and the widow’s son – 17:22, “the child’s life returned to him, and he lived.” • 2 Kings 4:18-37 – Elisha and the Shunammite’s son – 4:35, “the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.” • 2 Kings 13:20-21 – A man revived by Elisha’s bones – “the man revived and stood on his feet.” Real people returned from death, proving God can reverse it. Wisdom and Worship Expecting Life after Death • Job 19:25-27 – “I know that my Redeemer lives… yet in my flesh I will see God.” • Psalm 16:10 – “You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay.” David’s words point to Messiah’s resurrection (Acts 2:24-31) and to the believer’s hope. Prophetic Declarations of a Coming Resurrection • Isaiah 25:8 – “He will swallow up death forever.” • Isaiah 26:19 – “Your dead will live; their bodies will rise.” • Ezekiel 37:1-14 – Vision of dry bones – 37:5, “I will cause breath to enter you, and you will come to life.” • Daniel 12:2 – “Many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake.” • Hosea 6:2 – “After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up.” Summary Truth to Carry Forward From Abraham’s expectation to Daniel’s prophecy, the Old Testament repeatedly shows and promises resurrection. Paul therefore asks with confidence, “Why consider it incredible that God raises the dead?”—a question still answered by these same Scriptures. |
    |