Attempting to Discredit the Resurrection

ATTEMPTING TO DISCREDIT THE RESURRECTION

Matthew 28:11-15

I. The Concern 11

   A. The Absent Body

   B. The Account of the Guards

II. The Conspiracy 12-14

   A. The Persuasion Procured 12

   B. The Perfidious Ploy 13

   C. The Protection Promised 14

III. The Communication 15

   A. The Guards Comply

   B. The Message Communicated

IV. The Contradictions

   A. Chief Priests

   B. Disciples

   C. Guards

   D. Missing Body

ATTEMPTING TO DISCREDIT THE RESURRECTION

Matthew 28:11-15

1. What are some of the theories proposed to explain away the resurrection and what are the problems with those theories? [introduction]

2. What was the concern of Jesus’ enemies? 28:11

3. What was the alternative story concocted by the elders? How did they get the soldiers on their side? 28:12-14

4. What was the response of the guards? 28:15

5. What are the contradictions in this story?