The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
Week 13: Part Three, Chapters 13–14 — The Appearance Evidence and the Circumstantial Evidence
Read Part Three, Chapters 13 and 14 of The Case for Christ. Key interviews: Dr. J.P. Moreland (philosopher) on the circumstantial evidence for the resurrection.
Previewing Week 13 of The Case for Christ
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 15-week guide when you’re ready.
No single piece of evidence proves the resurrection — it is the convergence of many independent lines that makes the case. This week, Strobel pulls the threads together and asks what the whole body of evidence demands.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Dr. J.P. Moreland presents what he calls "circumstantial evidence" for the resurrection — evidence that doesn't directly prove the event but is best explained by it. What are the five key pieces of circumstantial evidence he offers? Which do you find most surprising or underappreciated?
2.Moreland points to the rapid growth of the early church in Jerusalem — in the very city where Jesus was crucified — as a piece of circumstantial evidence. Why would it be extraordinarily difficult to sustain a resurrection movement in the location of the alleged tomb if the tomb were not empty?
3.The early church changed its day of worship from Saturday (the Jewish Sabbath) to Sunday — the day of the resurrection. Moreland argues this is a significant change that requires a significant explanation. Do you find this argument compelling? Why or why not?