After Jesus’ resurrection, he spent an additional 40 days on earth, providing his disciples with important directions and words of encouragement. During this period, Jesus ensured that his disciples understood their mission and purpose moving forward.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus’ post-resurrection instructions were crucial in guiding his disciples’ mission.
- He promised them his authority and assured his presence with them always.
- Jesus encouraged his disciples, strengthening them in their faith.
- He appeared to many, establishing the reality of his resurrection and the truth of his message.
- Upon his ascension, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with joy and confidence.
Jesus’ Promise to the Disciples
In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus made a profound promise to his disciples. He assured them that he had been given all authority in heaven and on earth. This promise bestowed upon Jesus an extraordinary level of power and influence.
With this authority, Jesus instructed his disciples to embark on a crucial mission. He commanded them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Furthermore, he urged them to teach these new disciples to obey everything he had commanded them.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
– Jesus
This promise encapsulated Jesus’ vision for the expansion of his teachings and the establishment of a global community of believers. It emphasized the disciples’ role as ambassadors of his message, spreading the good news throughout the world.
Furthermore, Jesus reassured his disciples of his constant presence. He promised to be with them always, strengthening and guiding them as they fulfilled their mission.
This promise from Jesus not only empowered the disciples but also served as an enduring source of inspiration for generations of believers. Even today, Christians draw upon this promise to find reassurance and courage as they continue to share the message of Jesus and his transformative power.
Jesus’ Encouragement to the Disciples
Despite the disciples’ sadness and fear after Jesus’ death, he encouraged them during his 40 days on earth after resurrection. His presence and teachings provided them with strength and guidance. He assured them that they would not be alone in their mission.
As Jesus walked alongside his disciples, their spirits were lifted, and their hearts were filled with hope. His words of encouragement reminded them of their purpose and the impact they would have on the world. They were no longer just a group of followers; they were chosen and empowered to carry on Jesus’ mission of spreading the good news.
Through his powerful presence, Jesus instilled confidence in his disciples. He reminded them of the miracles they had witnessed and the teachings they had received. He assured them that they were equipped with everything they needed to fulfill their calling.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20
In these words, Jesus promised his disciples that he would be with them always. His presence would never be far from them, even though he would soon ascend to heaven. This promise brought comfort and reassurance. It reminded the disciples that they were not alone, that Jesus would guide and strengthen them in their journey.
With Jesus’ encouragement, the disciples took on their mission with renewed fervor. They boldly proclaimed the message of salvation, fearlessly facing challenges and persecution. The presence of Jesus in their lives gave them the courage to step out in faith and fulfill their purpose.
Jesus’ Encouragement Through His Teachings
Jesus not only encouraged his disciples through his physical presence but also through the teachings he imparted during his time on earth after resurrection. His words served as a source of wisdom and direction, guiding his disciples in their mission.
Through parables, Jesus taught his disciples about faith, love, forgiveness, and the kingdom of God. He shared profound truths that would shape their beliefs and actions. His teachings encouraged them to live a life worthy of their calling and to serve others with humility and compassion.
- The importance of faith: Jesus emphasized the significance of having faith in God’s power and promises. He encouraged his disciples to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties.
- The power of love: Jesus taught his disciples to love one another as he had loved them. He encouraged them to extend love and grace to all people, regardless of their background or status.
- The practice of forgiveness: Jesus emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. He encouraged his disciples to forgive others, just as they had been forgiven by God.
- The establishment of God’s kingdom: Jesus taught his disciples about the coming of God’s kingdom and their role in bringing it to fruition. He encouraged them to proclaim the good news of salvation and to make disciples of all nations.
Jesus’ teachings served as a constant source of encouragement and guidance for his disciples. They empowered them to carry out their mission with confidence, knowing that they were equipped with divine wisdom.
| Key Points: | Impact on the Disciples: |
|---|---|
| Jesus’ comforting presence | Brought assurance and renewed hope |
| Jesus’ promise of continual presence | Instilled confidence and courage |
| Jesus’ teachings on faith, love, forgiveness, and the kingdom of God | Provided wisdom and direction for the disciples’ mission |
Appearance and Teachings of Jesus
During the 40 days after his resurrection, Jesus made several appearances to his disciples, solidifying the reality of his resurrection and reinforcing his teachings. These encounters were essential in establishing the foundation of the early Christian faith. Jesus’ appearances were not mere fleeting moments; they were purposeful interactions that conveyed profound messages.
Teaching and Sharing the Good News
Jesus utilized these appearances to impart his teachings and ensure that his disciples understood the significance of his death and resurrection. He expounded on the Scriptures, revealing how they testified about him and his redemptive work (Luke 24:27). Through these lessons, Jesus equipped his disciples with the knowledge and understanding they needed to share the good news of salvation with the world.
Moreover, Jesus used his appearances as opportunities to demonstrate the physical reality of his resurrection. He ate with his disciples, allowing them to witness his bodily presence and dispelling any doubts or misconceptions they may have had (Luke 24:36-43). Jesus made it clear that he was not a mere apparition or an illusion but a living, breathing embodiment of hope and redemption.
Commissioning the Disciples
In addition to teaching, Jesus commissioned his disciples during these appearances. One of the most significant commissions is commonly known as the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20. Jesus instructed his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He emphasized the importance of teaching these new disciples to obey everything he had commanded. This command became their mission and directive for spreading the message of salvation.
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Through these appearances and teachings, Jesus prepared his disciples to carry the torch of his ministry and continue the work he had started. He instilled in them the confidence and conviction they needed to boldly proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Return to Jerusalem Rejoicing
After witnessing Jesus’ ascension into heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and confidence. They had personally witnessed the resurrected Jesus and knew that he was alive in heaven, as he had promised. This knowledge filled their hearts with courage and excitement for the mission that lay ahead.
The disciples understood that Jesus, despite physically leaving their presence, would be with them always, providing guidance and support. Their faith in his continued presence fueled their enthusiasm and determination to carry out his teachings.
In Jerusalem, the disciples found themselves surrounded by the city that held significant spiritual and historical importance. It was the place where Jesus had been crucified, buried, and ultimately triumphed over death. The very streets of Jerusalem resonated with the echoes of Jesus’ ministry and the fulfillment of God’s plan of redemption.
The disciples’ rejoicing in Jerusalem served as a visible testament to the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection. Their joy was not merely an emotion but a deep-rooted conviction in the truth and promises of Jesus. They were compelled to spread the good news of salvation to all who would listen.
As they gathered together with fellow believers in Jerusalem, the disciples basked in the unity of purpose and shared passion for proclaiming the message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. They found strength in their community and support from one another as they embarked on the great mission that Jesus had entrusted to them.
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” – John 15:11
The Disciples’ Rejoicing in Jerusalem:
- Deep sense of joy and confidence after witnessing Jesus’ ascension
- Understanding of Jesus’ continued presence and assurance;
- Awareness of Jerusalem’s spiritual significance;
- Rejoicing as a testament to the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection;
- Passionate conviction to spread the good news;
- Strength and support found in their community of believers;
- Shared purpose and unity as they embarked on their mission.
Jesus’ Leadership After Resurrection
After his resurrection, Jesus exhibited remarkable leadership qualities that continue to inspire and guide leaders today. He demonstrated a deep understanding of his disciples’ needs, met them where they were, and empowered them to fulfill their mission.
Jesus involved his disciples in miracles, allowing them to witness and participate in incredible acts of divine power. This not only strengthened their faith but also instilled in them a sense of purpose and significance. It showed them that Jesus valued their partnership and believed in their abilities.
Moreover, Jesus served his disciples selflessly. He washed their feet, a powerful symbol of humility and servant leadership. Through this act, he taught them the importance of putting others’ needs before their own and encouraged them to follow his example.
Jesus also restored those who were broken and in need. He forgave Peter for denying him and restored him to a position of leadership. This act of grace and redemption exemplified Jesus’ compassion and his belief in the transformative power of forgiveness.
Additionally, Jesus challenged his disciples to commit their entire lives to him. He asked them to leave everything behind and follow him wholeheartedly. This call to radical discipleship required them to let go of personal ambitions and surrender to Jesus’ leadership completely.
Lastly, Jesus empowered his disciples to continue his mission. He bestowed upon them the authority to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. By entrusting them with this responsibility, Jesus showed his confidence in their ability to carry forward his message of salvation.
These characteristics of Jesus’ leadership have timeless relevance and offer valuable insights for leaders today. Leaders can learn from Jesus’ example by meeting their followers’ needs, involving them in meaningful work, serving them selflessly, restoring those who are broken, challenging them to commit wholeheartedly, and empowering them to fulfill their purpose.
Significance of Meeting in Galilee
After his resurrection, Jesus specifically instructed his disciples to meet him in Galilee. This choice of location held great significance as it was where a remarkable event took place. Over five hundred followers witnessed Jesus at once, solidifying the authenticity of his resurrection and the magnitude of his presence.
This gathering in Galilee served as a pivotal moment in the disciples’ journey. It clarified the purpose of a Christ-honoring life, reaffirming their commitment to follow Jesus and spread the Gospel to all nations. The disciples recognized the significance of this meeting, which provided them with a clear understanding of their mission and the power of their testimonies.
Jesus’ decision to meet his disciples in Galilee highlighted the geographical and historical importance of the region. Galilee was the place where Jesus began his ministry, called his first disciples, and performed many miracles. It was also where Jesus displayed his authority over nature, sickness, and even death. By returning to Galilee, Jesus emphasized the continuity of his mission and the fulfillment of God’s plan.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.”
The gathering in Galilee not only reinforced the disciples’ faith but also served as a platform for Jesus to commission them to continue his work. This commission, commonly known as the Great Commission, involved spreading the Gospel, baptizing believers, and teaching them to follow Jesus’ teachings.
| Significance of Meeting in Galilee |
|---|
| Verification of the resurrection |
| Clarification of the purpose of a Christ-honoring life |
| Emphasis on the commission to spread the Gospel |
| Connection to the historical significance of Galilee |
| Platform for Jesus’ commission to the disciples |
The significance of meeting in Galilee cannot be understated. It solidified the disciples’ conviction, deepened their understanding, and emboldened their commitment to fulfill the mission entrusted to them by Jesus. Today, believers can draw inspiration from their example and recognize the enduring relevance of Jesus’ instructions to share the good news of his resurrection with the world.
The Message in Galilee
In Galilee, Jesus delivered an important message to all his disciples, not just a select few. He emphasized that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to him and commissioned them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe his commandments.
This commission from Jesus is famously known as the Great Commission and is found in Matthew 28:18-20:
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'”
This message and commission from Jesus remains relevant for believers today. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility to share the teachings of Jesus with others and to lead them to become disciples who follow his commandments.
Jesus’ words in Galilee signify the global reach and impact of his disciples’ work. They were not limited to a specific region or group of people but were meant to spread the good news of Jesus’ resurrection to all corners of the world.
Conclusion
Jesus’ post-resurrection instructions to his disciples were of utmost significance, providing them with clear guidance and purpose for their mission. He not only assured them of his abiding presence but also bestowed them with the power to carry out his work. By commissioning them to proclaim the good news of his death and resurrection, Jesus entrusted them with the task of spreading his message to the ends of the earth.
Today, believers can find unwavering confidence in serving the risen Lord, Jesus, who conquered death and continues to be present among his followers. His resurrection validates the truth of his teachings and the eternal significance of his mission. With Jesus as their example and guide, disciples are empowered to fulfill their mission with conviction, knowing that they have a divine calling and the ongoing presence of their Savior.
The disciples’ obedience to Jesus’ command initiated the establishment and growth of the early Christian Church. Their unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Great Commission set the foundation for believers throughout history to continue proclaiming the gospel and making disciples. The resurrection of Jesus remains the cornerstone of Christian faith, and his disciples’ mission is an enduring legacy that inspires believers to boldly share the transformative message of salvation to a broken world.
FAQ
What did Jesus tell his disciples to do after resurrection?
Jesus instructed his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything he had commanded them (Matthew 28:18-20).
What was Jesus’ promise to the disciples?
Jesus promised his disciples that he had been given all authority in heaven and on earth. He assured them that he would be with them always (Matthew 28:18-20).
How did Jesus encourage his disciples after resurrection?
During his 40 days on earth after resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples, teaching, touching, and eating with them. His presence and teachings provided them with strength and guidance.
Did Jesus physically appear to people after resurrection?
Yes, during the 40 days after his resurrection, Jesus appeared to many people, proving that he was physically present and not just a figment of their imagination or a story.
How did the disciples react after Jesus’ resurrection?
After Jesus ascended to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with joy and confidence, knowing that Jesus was alive in heaven and had promised to be with them always.
What were some of Jesus’ leadership traits after resurrection?
Jesus demonstrated leadership traits such as meeting his disciples where they were, involving them in miracles, serving them, restoring those who needed it, challenging them to commit their lives, and empowering them to continue his mission.
Why was the meeting in Galilee significant?
The meeting in Galilee was significant as it was where over five hundred followers saw Jesus at once. This gathering clarified the purpose of a Christ-honoring life and emphasized the commission to spread the Gospel to all nations.
What was Jesus’ message in Galilee?
In Galilee, Jesus delivered an important message to all his disciples, commissioning them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe his commandments (Matthew 28:18-20).
What guidance did Jesus’ instructions provide for his disciples after resurrection?
Jesus’ instructions provided guidance and purpose for his disciples’ mission. He promised his presence, empowered them, and commissioned them to spread the good news of his death and resurrection.
Source Links
- https://kidscorner.net/bible-stories/jesus-appears-to-his-disciples
- https://ericgeiger.com/2016/03/29/six-ways-jesus-led-his-disciples-after-the-resurrection/
- https://www.airportchristianfellowship.org/2018/04/01/why-did-jesus-tell-his-disciples-to-meet-him-in-galilee-after-his-resurrection-from-the-dead/
I’m Benjamin, a passionate spiritual seeker and creator of Verses and Prayers. Alongside my girlfriend Emma and our pet lizard Mulle, I cherish family life, enjoy exploring new places, and am deeply involved in my church community. My love for reading and singing biblical verses inspires every aspect of my journey.