On the Shroud of Turin

It was many moons ago when I first heard about it, likely during my seminary days. Initially, I thought it was a total hoax, but I no longer believe that. What am I talking about? The Shroud of Turin—a linen cloth that bears the image of a crucified man, believed by some to be the actual burial shroud of Jesus Christ. While I’m not supportive of relic worship (no Christians should be!), our caution against superstition shouldn’t prevent us from thoughtfully considering the Shroud. 

The Bible teaches that Jesus was wrapped in a shroud: “And Joseph [of Arimathea] took the body [of Christ] and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud” (Matt 27:57). The Shroud of Turin shows the marks of a crucified man, dates around the time of Christ’s death, and contains pollen grains from plants native to Jerusalem. Most strikingly, the Shroud bears the full-body image of a man, somehow transposed onto the cloth. Philosopher of Religion at Liberty University, Gary R. Habermas states, “The evidence reveals that the Shroud of Turin is probably the actual burial garment of Jesus. As such it provides much information concerning both the physical cause of Jesus’s death and also some exciting new evidence for his resurrection.” That’s amazing to consider!

My point in discussing the Shroud isn’t to convince you of its authenticity (I remain undecided but intrigued), but rather to remind you of the vast resources we possess as Christians to argue for the validity of our faith. Christianity is true—history, science, philosophy, archeology, and everything else supports that. Christ literally came, lived, died, rose, and will return again to judge the living and the dead. Therefore, be bold in your faith and share it with others, church family!

Pastor Chance