Introduction to the Contention

In the biblical text, Jude 9 provides an interesting insight into the actions of Michael the archangel regarding the body of Moses. The verse states, 'Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!”' (New King James Version, NKJV).

The Scriptural Context

According to the Deuteronomy 34, Moses, the servant of the Lord, died in the land of Moab. The text clearly indicates that the Lord Himself buried Moses: 'So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab... And He buried him in a valley in the land of Moab opposite Beth Peor, but no one knows his grave to this day.' (Deuteronomy 34:5-6, NKJV)

The Resurrection and the Biblical Views

The burial of Moses in an unknown location raises questions about his post-mortem existence and resurrection. It is significant to note that prior to the birth of Jesus, the scriptures suggest that Moses was resurrected. This is evident in his appearance with Elijah and Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration, as recorded in Luke 9:30-31:

And behold, two men talked with Him who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.

Additionally, Michael, the archangel, is seen taking a prominent role in this event, emphasizing the involvement of divine forces in the handling of Moses' body.

Michael the Archangel’s Contention

In Jude 9, Michael is described as taking action in contending with the devil, disputing over the body of Moses. However, his method was not one of confrontation but of divine authority. Michael’s response, 'The Lord rebuke you!' (NKJV), showcases his reliance on divine intervention rather than human or heavenly conflict.

The Importance of Resurrection in the Bible

The concept of resurrection is a critical aspect of the Christian faith. Resurrection in the biblical sense means not just returning to life, but returning in a transformed, immortal body. This is further emphasized by the story of Jesus’ resurrection (Luke 24:39), and the legacy of Moses and Elijah, as they appear in bodily form after their deaths.

Further Biblical Insights

Additional support for the idea of bodily resurrection can be found in the prophecy of Daniel 12:1-2, which speaks of Michael, the great prince who watches over the people of God:

Michael shall stand up, the great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, every one who is found written in the book. And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt.

This passage confirms the necessity of a resurrection that follows death, as those who sleep in the earth are to awaken, some to eternal life, and some to judgment.

Conclusion

The account of Michael’s action in contending for Moses’ body sheds light on the biblical understanding of bodily resurrection. It indicates that resurrection is the divine act through which souls return to physical form, fulfilling the promise of immortality and eternal life. The stories of Moses, Elijah, and Jesus all point towards the importance of a physical, resurrected existence and serve as models for believers.