Yes, in fact he was dead for sure.  Romans were known historically as being great executioners.  They made sure they got the job done.   He was whipped 39 lashes from a flog (a whip with bone on it to tear the skin). 39 lashes was how many the jews were allowed to give according to their law.  Usually people pass out after 10.  He was beat,  "Then they spat  in His face and beat Him with their fists; and others slapped  Him, and said, "Prophesy to us, You Christ;  who is the one who hit You?""(Matthew 26:67-68).  He died on a Roman Cross, and on a cross you die of suffocation, you suffocate.  He Died, for sure!!!  He also raised again, 500 wittnesses saw him over a 40 day period, and a epiphany (dream) usually doesn't last 40 days.  The apostles died because they would not denounce their faith in Christ.  12/13 died and one escaped miraculously from God's grace, it is historical.  Look into it. Someone may die for what they believe, but no one would die for what they know to be a lie, It is truth!!!     Click here for more...