6. How did the resurrection of Jesus affect his disciples?

⁶ Jesus’ resurrection had a profound impact on his disciples. He was no longer dead, as his enemies believed. Jesus was alive as a mighty spirit person whom no human could harm. His resurrection proved that he was the Son of God, and knowing that fact, the disciples found their spirits lifted from that of profound sorrow to great joy. Furthermore, their fear was replaced by courage. Jesus’ resurrection was central to Jehovah’s purpose and to the good news they boldly proclaimed far and wide.

13. How did the zeal of the disciples show that they were certain that Jesus had been resurrected?

¹³ A third reason why we know that Jesus’ resurrection occurred is the zeal that his disciples showed in proclaiming it. Zealously bearing witness to the resurrection of the Christ exposed them to persecution, suffering, and death. If Jesus had not been raised up​—if it was all a hoax—​why would Peter risk his life to proclaim Christ’s resurrection to the religious leaders, who hated Jesus and had plotted his death? It was because Peter and the other disciples were certain that Jesus was alive and was directing the work that God wanted done. Moreover, Jesus’ resurrection assured his followers that they too would be resurrected. For instance, Stephen died with the conviction that there would be a resurrection of the dead.​—Acts 7:55-60.

15. Why does Jesus’ resurrection give us courage to preach?

¹⁵ The resurrection of Christ gives us courage to preach. For 2,000 years, God’s enemies have used every sort of weapon to put an end to the good news​—apostasy, ridicule, mob violence, bans, torture, and execution. Yet, nothing​—‘no weapon formed against us’—​has stopped our Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work. (Isa. 54:17) We do not fear Satan’s minions, or slaves. Jesus is with us, backing us up, just as he promised. (Matt. 28:20) We have every reason to be fearless, for try as they may, our enemies will never silence us!