Jesus Christ Is Risen Today: History, Faith, and Hope

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Jesus Christ is risen today”—especially around Easter time. It’s not just the title of a well-known hymn sung in churches around the world; it’s also a powerful statement of faith for millions of Christians. These words celebrate one of the most important beliefs in Christianity: that Jesus Christ rose from the dead after his crucifixion.

For Christians, the resurrection isn’t just a miracle—it’s the foundation of their faith. It represents victory over death, the promise of eternal life, and the hope that even in the darkest times, new life is possible. This belief has shaped Christian teachings, traditions, and the way many people view life and death.

In this article, you’ll learn what the phrase “Jesus Christ is risen today” really means, where it comes from, and why it matters so much. Whether you’re curious about the Christian faith or just want to better understand one of its core ideas, this guide will help explain the history, meaning, and hope behind these powerful words.

I. Background: Who Is Jesus Christ?

To understand why “Jesus Christ is risen today” is so important, you first need to know who Jesus Christ is. Jesus of Nazareth lived over 2,000 years ago in what is now modern-day Israel. He was a Jewish man born in a small town called Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth. Most of what we know about his life comes from the Bible, especially the New Testament.

Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God, sent to Earth to teach people about love, forgiveness, and truth. He spent about three years traveling from town to town, healing the sick, helping the poor, and sharing messages about God’s kingdom. His teachings focused on loving your neighbor, showing mercy, and trusting in God.

Even though Jesus did many good things, he faced opposition from religious leaders at the time. Eventually, he was arrested, put on trial, and sentenced to death by crucifixion—a painful and public form of execution used by the Romans. He died on a Friday, now remembered as Good Friday by Christians.

But the story doesn’t end there. Christians believe that three days later, on Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead. This event, known as the resurrection, is what makes Jesus the central figure in Christianity. His life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the Christian faith and have influenced billions of people around the world. If you’re exploring Christianity, knowing who Jesus is will help you understand why he matters so much.

II. What Does “Risen” Mean in Christian Belief?

When Christians say “Jesus is risen,” they’re talking about something very important called the resurrection. In simple terms, resurrection means coming back to life after being truly dead. But in Christian belief, it’s more than just coming back—it’s being raised to a new kind of life by God.

You might have heard of ideas like reincarnation, where a person is reborn into another life, or a spiritual afterlife, where only the soul lives on after death. The resurrection is different from both of these. In reincarnation, a person might come back as someone else, or even as an animal. In a spiritual afterlife, the body stays in the grave while the soul goes on.

But in Christianity, Jesus’ resurrection was unique. Christians believe that Jesus came back to life in his physical body, not just as a spirit. His tomb was empty. People saw him, touched him, and even ate with him after he rose. At the same time, his resurrected body was also different—he could appear suddenly in locked rooms and wasn’t limited by the same things as before.

For Christians, this shows that Jesus truly defeated death in a way no one else ever has. His resurrection wasn’t just a symbol or a story—it was a real event that changed everything. If you’re new to these ideas, understanding what “risen” means helps you see why Easter is such a big celebration and why Jesus’ return to life is so central to Christian faith.

III. The Easter Story: What Happened According to the Bible?

To understand why Christians say “Jesus Christ is risen today,” it helps to know the full Easter story as told in the Bible. This story takes place during a special time called Holy Week, which includes the days leading up to Easter Sunday.

It begins with Palm Sunday, when Jesus entered Jerusalem and was welcomed by crowds of people waving palm branches. Later in the week, on Thursday, Jesus shared a final meal with his closest followers, called the Last Supper. That night, he was betrayed by one of his disciples, arrested by soldiers, and taken to be judged by religious and Roman leaders.

On Good Friday, Jesus was sentenced to death and crucified—a painful way of dying on a wooden cross. Christians call it “Good” Friday because they believe Jesus died to take away the sins of the world. He was buried in a tomb, and a large stone was rolled in front to seal it.

But the story doesn’t end there.

Early on Easter Sunday morning, a group of women—including Mary Magdalene—went to visit the tomb. When they arrived, they were shocked to find the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. An angel told them that Jesus was not there because he had risen.

Soon after, Jesus began appearing to people—first to Mary Magdalene, then to his disciples, and later to many others. These weren’t just visions or dreams. People talked with him, touched him, and even ate meals with him. The Bible says he spent about 40 days appearing to different groups of people before ascending to heaven.

If you’re exploring Christianity, this part of the story is at the heart of the faith. Christians believe the resurrection really happened—and that it shows Jesus has power over death and offers new life to everyone who believes.

IV. Theological Significance: Why the Resurrection Matters

You might be wondering why the resurrection of Jesus is such a big deal for Christians. The truth is, it’s not just an amazing story—it’s the foundation of the Christian faith. The resurrection shows who Jesus really is, fulfills promises made long ago, and gives Christians hope that goes beyond this life.

First, the resurrection is seen as proof that Jesus is the Son of God. Many people saw Jesus die on the cross, but when he came back to life, it showed that he had power over death—something only God can do. For Christians, this is a clear sign that Jesus was not just a good teacher or a kind man. He is divine, and his resurrection confirms everything he taught.

Second, the resurrection connects to Old Testament prophecies. Long before Jesus was born, the Bible contains messages from prophets who said that a Savior would come, suffer, and rise again. Christians believe that Jesus perfectly fulfilled these promises. His resurrection wasn’t a surprise to God—it was part of a bigger plan that had been unfolding for centuries.

Finally, the resurrection means that Jesus has won the victory over sin and death. Christians believe that through his death on the cross, Jesus took the punishment for all human sin. And by rising again, he showed that death doesn’t have the final word. This gives Christians great hope. If Jesus defeated death, then they believe they too can have eternal life through him.

So, when you hear “Jesus Christ is risen today,” it’s more than just a happy phrase. It’s a powerful reminder that Jesus is alive, that God’s promises are real, and that there is hope for a new life—both now and forever.

V. Historical Context and Early Christian Belief

To understand why “Jesus Christ is risen today” became such a powerful message, it helps to look at how the early Christians responded to the resurrection. If you had lived during that time, you would have seen something amazing: a small group of followers suddenly filled with courage, going out to tell the world that Jesus had risen from the dead.

Right after the resurrection, Jesus’ disciples—the same people who were scared and hiding after his death—started boldly telling others what they had seen. They said Jesus was alive, and they shared this news everywhere they went. For them, the resurrection wasn’t just a nice idea—it was something real that had changed their lives forever.

Many of the early Christians were willing to face jail, beatings, and even death rather than deny what they believed. They weren’t just repeating a story—they believed they had seen the risen Jesus with their own eyes. This strong belief helped the message of Christianity spread quickly throughout the Roman Empire and beyond.

Historians have looked at this event closely. While not everyone agrees on what happened, most agree that something important must have taken place. The tomb was found empty, and many people claimed to have seen Jesus alive. Even people who didn’t believe in him at first—like Paul, who became one of the most famous Christian leaders—changed their minds after encountering what they believed was the risen Christ.

Because of this powerful belief in the resurrection, the Christian church began to grow rapidly. Within a few decades, communities of believers were forming in cities all over the ancient world. They gathered to worship, share meals, and tell others the good news: Jesus is risen.

If you’re exploring Christianity today, it’s helpful to know that this message has been at the heart of the faith from the very beginning. It’s not just a tradition—it’s the reason why Christianity exists at all.

VI. The Hymn: “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

When you hear the words “Jesus Christ is risen today,” you’re not just hearing a statement of faith—you’re also hearing the title of one of the most famous Easter hymns in the Christian tradition. If you’ve ever been to an Easter Sunday church service, there’s a good chance you’ve heard this joyful song.

This hymn has a long history. It was originally written in the 14th century as a Latin hymn called “Surrexit Christus Hodie.” In the early 1700s, it was translated into English and added to by a man named Charles Wesley, who helped spread Christian music across churches in England. Over the years, it became a favorite song for Easter morning, sung by Christians around the world.

No matter what type of church you visit—Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox—you might hear this hymn during Easter celebrations. It brings people together to celebrate the most important part of the Christian faith: the resurrection of Jesus. The music is joyful and powerful, and it helps everyone feel the excitement of Easter.

If you’re new to the hymn, here’s a simple explanation of what it says:

• “Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia” – This means Jesus rose from the dead today, and alleluia is a joyful word meaning “praise the Lord.”
  
• “Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia” – Easter is a day of victory, a holy celebration.
  
• “Who did once upon the cross, Alleluia” – Jesus died on the cross in the past…
  
• “Suffer to redeem our loss, Alleluia” – …and he suffered to save us from sin and bring us back to God.
  

Each line usually ends with “Alleluia” to express joy and thankfulness.

When you sing this hymn, you’re joining with millions of Christians throughout history and around the world in celebrating the hope and joy of the resurrection. It’s more than just a song—it’s a message of faith, love, and victory.

VII. Symbolism and Imagery Associated with the Resurrection

When you hear the phrase “Jesus Christ is risen today,” you might also see or think of certain images and symbols—especially around Easter. These symbols help people understand and remember what the resurrection means. Even if you’re new to Christianity, learning about these symbols can help you connect with the message in a deeper way.

One of the most powerful symbols is the empty tomb. According to the Bible, when Jesus’ followers went to his tomb on Easter morning, they found it open and empty. For Christians, the empty tomb is a clear sign that Jesus has risen and is no longer dead. It’s a symbol of new life, hope, and victory over death.

The cross is another key symbol. Even though Jesus died on a cross, Christians don’t see it as a symbol of defeat. Instead, they see it as a symbol of love and sacrifice, because Jesus gave his life for others. After the resurrection, the cross also represents forgiveness and the start of something new.

You may also notice white garments in Easter art and celebrations. White often stands for purity, joy, and new life. In stories about the resurrection, angels and even Jesus himself are sometimes described as wearing white. This reminds Christians that the resurrection brings a fresh start and a clean heart.

Light is another important image. You’ll often see candles or sunrises used in Easter services. Light stands for Jesus as the light of the world, showing the way in times of darkness. The resurrection is seen as the moment when light overcame darkness and brought hope to the world.

And then there are lilies, the white flowers you often see at Easter. Lilies are a symbol of new beginnings and resurrection. They grow from bulbs buried in the ground—just like Jesus was buried—but then they bloom beautifully, reminding people of life after death.

Artists and musicians have used these symbols for centuries. In paintings, stained glass windows, hymns, and songs, you’ll often see the empty tomb, shining light, or Jesus in white robes. These works of art and music help tell the story of the resurrection in ways that words alone sometimes can’t.

As you explore the meaning of “Jesus Christ is risen today,” pay attention to these symbols. They’re more than decorations—they carry deep meaning and help you feel the message of Easter in your heart.

VIII. How Christians Celebrate the Resurrection Today

If you’ve ever seen people dressed in their best clothes, carrying baskets, or going to church early in the morning around springtime, you’ve probably witnessed an Easter celebration. For Christians, Easter Sunday is the most important holiday of the year. It’s the day they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ—the moment they believe Jesus rose from the dead and brought hope to the world.

On Easter Sunday, many Christians start the day by going to a church service. These services are filled with joyful music, special readings from the Bible, and prayers of praise. People sing songs like “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today” to express their happiness and faith. Churches are often decorated with flowers, candles, and bright colors, especially white and gold, to show that it’s a time of celebration.

During the service, many churches also hold sacraments, like Holy Communion (also called the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist). This is a special moment where believers remember Jesus’ death and resurrection by sharing bread and wine (or grape juice), which represent Jesus’ body and blood.

Some churches begin the day with a sunrise service, held outside in the early morning. This is to remember that Jesus rose from the tomb at sunrise. It’s a beautiful way to start the day with prayer, music, and the rising sun as a symbol of new life.

There are also fun cultural traditions that many people take part in, even if they’re not very religious. Easter eggs, for example, are a popular symbol of new life and rebirth. Children often enjoy Easter egg hunts, where colorful eggs are hidden for them to find. In some places, there are also Easter bunnies, special meals, and sweet treats like chocolate eggs.

Easter celebrations vary around the world, but the heart of it stays the same: Christians everywhere gather to remember that Jesus is alive. In the United States, the UK, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, people may celebrate in different ways—through music, processions, feasts, or dancing—but the message is the same: Jesus Christ is risen today, and that gives hope to everyone.

Whether you’re just learning about Easter or you’ve seen these traditions before, understanding how Christians celebrate can help you see why this day means so much to so many people.

IX. Personal and Spiritual Impact for Believers

When Christians say “Jesus is risen,” they’re not just talking about something that happened long ago. They believe it still has meaning for you and your everyday life. The resurrection of Jesus gives personal hope, strength, and purpose to those who follow him.

First, it reminds believers that death is not the end. Christians believe that because Jesus rose from the dead, they too can have eternal life with God. This gives comfort when facing hard times, loss, or even death. If you’ve ever felt afraid of what happens after this life, the message of the resurrection says there is hope beyond the grave.

The resurrection also gives people hope when they go through suffering or difficult times. Knowing that Jesus went through pain, died, and then rose again helps Christians believe that God can bring good out of bad situations. It reminds you that even when life feels dark, light and new beginnings are still possible.

On a day-to-day level, believing that Jesus is alive changes how many Christians live. It encourages them to follow his teachings—like loving others, forgiving, being honest, and caring for those in need. The resurrection shows that love is stronger than hate and life is stronger than death. This shapes Christian values and inspires people to live with kindness, courage, and faith.

So, when you hear someone say “Jesus Christ is risen today,” know that it’s not just a tradition—it’s a message of hope, peace, and new life that many people carry in their hearts every day.

X. Resurrection in Different Christian Traditions

If you’ve ever visited different churches or heard people talk about Easter in different ways, you might wonder how Christians from various backgrounds understand the resurrection. While all Christians believe that Jesus rose from the dead, different traditions may celebrate and talk about it in slightly different ways.

Let’s start with the Catholic Church. Catholics place a strong focus on the resurrection of Jesus during their worship, especially at Easter. They also talk about it every Sunday at Mass, during prayers called the Creed. For Catholics, the resurrection is not just something to remember once a year—it’s part of daily life and worship. The Easter Vigil, held on the night before Easter Sunday, is one of the most beautiful and important services of the year, full of light, music, and scripture readings.

Protestant churches, which include many different groups like Baptists, Methodists, Lutherans, and others, also celebrate the resurrection with great joy. Most Protestants focus on the idea that Jesus’ resurrection brings personal salvation and forgiveness of sins. They often emphasize a personal relationship with Jesus, made possible because he is alive. Easter services in Protestant churches are filled with joyful music, Bible readings, and messages of hope.

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the resurrection is the heart of their faith and worship. Their celebration of Easter—called Pascha—is full of powerful traditions. For example, they often start the service late at night with candles in a dark church. Then, when midnight comes, the church fills with light, and everyone joyfully says, “Christ is risen!” The Orthodox Church also emphasizes how Jesus’ resurrection defeated death not just for individuals, but for all of humanity.

Even though there are differences in how they celebrate, all three traditions—Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox—agree on the same powerful truth: Jesus rose from the dead. The resurrection is at the center of their worship (liturgy) and their beliefs (theology). It shapes how they pray, sing, and live their daily lives.

So no matter what kind of church you visit, you’ll see that the message “Jesus Christ is risen today” is at the heart of Christian faith all around the world.

XI. Misunderstandings and Clarifications

If you’re learning about the resurrection for the first time, you might come across some common questions or misunderstandings. That’s okay! It’s normal to be curious, and it’s important to look at what Christians actually believe—and what they don’t.

One misunderstanding is thinking that the resurrection is just a metaphor or a symbol. Some people believe “Jesus is risen” simply means his message lives on or that he lives in the hearts of his followers. While this idea may sound nice, it’s not what Christians mean when they talk about the resurrection.

Christians believe in a literal resurrection—that Jesus really, physically rose from the dead. His body didn’t stay in the tomb. According to the Bible, people saw him, touched him, and even ate with him after he rose. He wasn’t a ghost or a memory—he was truly alive in a new and powerful way. This belief is key to Christian faith because it shows that death was not the end for Jesus, and it gives hope to others as well.

You might also have heard skeptical views—maybe you’ve wondered yourself—about whether the resurrection could have actually happened. That’s a fair question. Some people think the disciples were confused, or that it was just a story made up over time. Christians respond to these doubts by pointing out that many eyewitnesses said they saw Jesus alive, and their lives changed dramatically afterward. These early believers were even willing to suffer and die for what they believed they saw.

Of course, not everyone accepts this, and Christians understand that. But they also believe the resurrection is something that goes beyond what we can fully explain. It’s not just about facts—it’s about faith, history, and personal experience coming together.

If you’re exploring these ideas, it’s okay to ask questions and take your time. Just remember: when Christians say “Jesus Christ is risen today,” they really do mean that he came back to life—not just in spirit, but in a real and physical way that continues to bring hope to millions of people around the world.

XII. Broader Influence Beyond the Church

Even if you’re not a Christian or don’t go to church, you’ve probably come across the message “He is risen” or the idea of new life and fresh beginnings. That’s because the message of the resurrection has spread far beyond church walls and has become part of art, culture, and everyday thinking all around the world.

For centuries, the story of Jesus rising from the dead has inspired literature, paintings, music, and films. You’ll find themes of hope, sacrifice, and rebirth in books, movies, and plays—even when they’re not directly about Jesus. Writers often use the idea of someone being “reborn” or starting over after a time of suffering, which comes from the Christian idea of resurrection and new life.

The resurrection has also influenced how people think about right and wrong, even outside of religion. Ideas like forgiveness, second chances, and redemption have shaped the way many societies understand justice and morality. These values are deeply connected to the belief that no one is ever too far gone to change, grow, or be forgiven.

You can also see the concept of renewal in nature and in secular celebrations, like spring festivals. Just like Easter, many of these traditions celebrate the end of winter and the start of new life. Flowers bloom, the days get longer, and people feel a sense of hope. This reflects the resurrection theme—life returning after death, light overcoming darkness.

The phrase “He is risen” has even made its way into popular culture and everyday language. You might see it on signs, cards, or social media posts during Easter time. Sometimes, it’s used seriously, and other times it’s said more casually. But either way, it shows how deeply the message has spread—even to people who may not fully know where it comes from.

So, whether you’re religious or not, you’ve probably been touched in some way by the message of the resurrection. It’s a story that continues to inspire people to believe in hope, change, and the power of new beginnings.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

Now that you’ve learned more about the resurrection, you can see why the message “Jesus Christ is risen today” is so important to Christians. It’s not just a line from a hymn or a tradition that happens once a year—it’s the heart of Christian faith. The resurrection shows that Jesus is alive, that death is not the end, and that there is always hope for new life.

This message has inspired faith, brought comfort during hard times, and created strong communities of people who try to live with love, kindness, and purpose. It reminds you that no matter what you’re going through, there is always a chance to begin again.

Whether you’re someone who believes, someone who is curious, or someone who simply wants to understand more, you’re invited to reflect on what the resurrection means. You don’t have to have all the answers right away. Take your time to learn, ask questions, and explore—and do so with an open and respectful heart.

The story of Jesus rising from the dead has been shared for over 2,000 years—and it still speaks to people today. Maybe it will speak to you, too.