As I look at the account in the gospels, I see a process of embellishment. It is not a simple progression, I suspect the authors of Luke and Matthew were working separately, so embellished in different directions. Here are some examples, in no particular order. The Resurrection Mark's account is clearly the least elaborate. In the later gospels, we can see bits that look to have been added to counter specific objections: Jesus was merely a ghost: Luke 24:39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish,[b] 43 and he took it and ate before them. The disciples stole the body: Matthew 27:64 Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disci...