Chapter 1: Introduction and Context
This chapter establishes the historical and religious backdrop against which the resurrection of Jesus must be understood. It explains that Second Temple Judaism held complex and varied beliefs about life after death, resurrection, and the coming of God’s kingdom. Wright stresses that resurrection was not a universally accepted concept even within Judaism, but it did have a well-developed presence, particularly in some apocalyptic sects like the Pharisees and Essenes. The chapter clarifies that Jesus’ resurrection claim should be interpreted in light of these expectations—both affirming certain Jewish beliefs while simultaneously surpassing them. The resurrection is therefore not an isolated Christian invention but emerges from a deeply rooted Jewish context.
Chapter 2: The Biblical Witness to Resurrection
Here, Wright explores scriptural foundations for resurrection found in the Hebrew Bible and intertestamental literature. Passages such as Daniel 12:2 and Isaiah 26:19 anticipate a future resurrection of the dead, providing theological groundwork. Additionally, texts like 2 Maccabees show early Jewish reflections on bodily resurrection and divine justice after death. Wright argues that the New Testament writers drew on these traditions but reinterpreted them through the lens of Jesus’ resurrection as a unique event. The chapter highlights how Jesus’ resurrection was understood as the first instance and guarantee of the future resurrection of all believers, fundamentally transforming the Jewish hope into a realised reality.
Chapter 3: The Historical Evidence for Jesus’ Resurrection
Wright systematically assesses the historical credibility of the resurrection accounts, weighing them against alternative explanations such as myth, hallucination, or conspiracy theories. He presents the testimonies found in the Gospels and Pauline letters as based on genuine early experiences of the risen Jesus. Particular attention is given to the empty tomb, the transformation of the disciples from fearful to bold proclaimers, and the specific nature of the resurrection appearances, which involve physical interaction and eating with Jesus. Wright argues that these elements strongly support a bodily resurrection rather than a merely spiritual or metaphorical event. This chapter aims to show that the resurrection claim stands on solid historical grounds.
Chapter 4: Theological Significance of the Resurrection
This chapter explores the implications of the resurrection for Christian belief and doctrine. Wright argues that the resurrection confirms Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and Son of God, validating his teaching and mission. It also represents the decisive defeat of sin, death, and evil—power that had previously seemed insurmountable. The resurrection inaugurates the new creation, signalling God’s restoration of the world and the beginning of a renewed cosmic order. Wright explains that through Jesus’ resurrection, believers are invited into participation in this new life, embodying God’s future in the present. The resurrection is thus the theological cornerstone of Christianity.
Chapter 5: The Resurrection and Christian Hope
Wright elaborates on how the resurrection shapes the Christian understanding of hope—not only for life after death but for the transformation of all creation. He explains that resurrection is both an individual promise of eternal life and a cosmic event heralding the renewal of heaven and earth. This hope empowers Christians to live in anticipation of God’s ultimate victory over death and decay. The resurrection also offers assurance that suffering and injustice are temporary, and that God’s kingdom will be fully realised. Wright stresses that this hope is integral to Christian identity and ethics.
Chapter 6: The Resurrection in Christian Worship and Life
The final chapter connects theological reflection to practical Christian living. Wright shows how the resurrection shapes worship practices, inspiring praise and thanksgiving centred on the risen Christ. It also motivates ethical behaviour, calling believers to embody resurrection power through love, justice, and mission. Christians are encouraged to live confidently in the “already but not yet” tension, where the resurrection has begun God’s new creation, but its fullness is awaited. Wright highlights that the resurrection fuels mission by compelling believers to proclaim this transformative event to the world, inviting others into the hope it offers.