Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Mary Magdalene
- Observing the Crucifixion
- Preparing the Body of Jesus
- Discovering the Empty Tomb
- Encountering the Resurrected Jesus
- Message for Humanity
- Paul the Apostle
- Early Life as a Pharisee
- Persecuting Christians
- Conversion on the Road to Damascus
- Meaning of the Resurrection
- Final Message
- Saint Peter
- Role Among the Disciples
- Doubting Mary’s Testimony
- Instructions from Jesus
- Perspective on the Resurrection
- Final Message
- Conclusion
Introduction
Barry Strohm and his co-host Connie Strohm introduce the episode of “Channeling History,” focusing on Easter and the resurrection of Jesus. They state that the evening’s discussion will involve channeling with three key figures from Christian history: Mary Magdalene, Saint Paul, and Saint Peter, to explore events surrounding the resurrection.
Mary Magdalene
Observing the Crucifixion
Mary Magdalene recounts being present at the crucifixion of Jesus alongside Mary, the mother of Jesus. She explains that Jesus instructed his male disciples to avoid the crucifixion site for their safety, fearing Roman retaliation. Mary and Mary Magdalene felt safe attending due to their perceived lower risk as women.
Preparing the Body of Jesus
After the crucifixion, Mary Magdalene and others accompanied Joseph of Arimathea to the tomb to lay Jesus’s body to rest. She describes Roman soldiers granting them limited time to prepare the body before sealing the tomb, fearing that followers might attempt to remove it.
Discovering the Empty Tomb
Upon returning to the tomb to complete the burial rituals, Mary Magdalene found the tomb unsealed and the body of Jesus missing. Roman soldiers suggested the body might have been stolen, although they could not explain how it had happened under their guard.
Encountering the Resurrected Jesus
Mary describes seeing Jesus in the days following the crucifixion. In this encounter, Jesus instructed her to inform his disciples of his resurrection, explaining that his soul was no longer bound to a physical form. She describes the disciples’ initial disbelief at her experience, many assuming she was hallucinating due to grief.
Message for Humanity
Mary shares that Jesus’s resurrection symbolizes a chance for new beginnings, emphasizing that individuals can start fresh by following God’s teachings. She encourages people to remain devoted to the original meanings of religious holidays, without succumbing to commercial influences.
Paul the Apostle
Early Life as a Pharisee
Paul introduces himself as a former Pharisee who adhered strictly to Jewish law and supported the Roman authorities. Pharisees feared Jesus’s influence, viewing it as a threat to their authority and their collaboration with the Romans.
Persecuting Christians
Paul admits to participating in the persecution of early Christians, including the stoning of Stephen, whom he identifies as an early Christian martyr. Paul describes his role as an observer and facilitator, motivated by a belief in preserving the authority of the Jewish faith.
Conversion on the Road to Damascus
Paul recounts his transformative experience on the road to Damascus, where he encountered an apparition of Jesus. This encounter, marked by intense light, convinced Paul of Jesus’s resurrection and led him to convert to Christianity.
Meaning of the Resurrection
Paul interprets the resurrection as a testament to God’s miraculous power and an opportunity for personal rebirth. He believes his selection by Jesus exemplifies the possibility of forgiveness and redemption, encouraging others to dedicate their lives to spreading Jesus’s message.
Final Message
Paul encourages people to live with love, forgive others, and embrace the belief in the resurrection, which he regards as a symbol of hope and transformation.
Saint Peter
Role Among the Disciples
Peter describes himself as a close confidant of Jesus, trusted with understanding his teachings and leading the disciples. Jesus foretold Peter’s role in continuing his mission and warned of his eventual death by Roman hands.
Doubting Mary’s Testimony
When Mary Magdalene shared her encounter with the resurrected Jesus, Peter admits he initially doubted her, attributing her vision to grief. Similarly, when Paul approached the disciples to join them, Peter suspected Paul of espionage on behalf of the Pharisees. Over time, however, Peter came to trust Paul and recognize his commitment.
Instructions from Jesus
Peter explains that Jesus instructed his disciples to spread his teachings across the world and establish a church in Rome. Although Peter initially did not aim to found what would become the Roman Catholic Church, his efforts laid foundational beliefs for early Christianity.
Perspective on the Resurrection
Peter interprets the resurrection as evidence of God’s power and a sign that life can be renewed. He views it as a divine act showing that all individuals have the potential for redemption and spiritual renewal.
Final Message
Peter urges listeners to observe religious holidays thoughtfully, advocating for values of love, integrity, coexistence, and humility. He emphasizes that life continues beyond physical death, with each soul having the opportunity to grow spiritually.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with an invitation to the next show, where the hosts will channel three U.S. presidents who faced pivotal moments in history. The Strohms thank viewers for joining and invite them to continue exploring historical and spiritual topics in future episodes.