After his resurrection, Jesus spent 40 days on earth. The gospels record eleven specific appearances, but there may have been more.
First, he is at the tomb with a handful of women, then on a road with two men. Next, we find him at the Sea of Galilee with seven disciples, appearing to his half-brother James and then to five hundred people. Here are three lessons to learn from Jesus’ post-resurrection life.
“He appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles,” (1 Corinthians 15:5–7)
1. We should testify to God’s work in our lives.
Despite hearing Jesus’ prediction of his death and resurrection (Mt 16:21-23, 17:22-23, 20:17-19), the disciples were unprepared to meet their risen Lord. Jesus graciously walked among his followers to comfort them in their fear and commission them for their work.
These early followers then testified of what they had seen. To testify is to give evidence as a witness in a law court. We, too, are called to testify to Jesus’ impact on our lives.
2. We can accept Jesus’ redemption.
One of the most beautiful stories in history is when Jesus met with Peter on the Sea of Galilee. Peter had denied Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted, and was feeling unworthy and full of shame.
When Jesus met him on the beach, he pardoned Peter, the rock of the early church, three times. This story reminds us of Jesus’ incredible power to redeem our stories.
3. We can trust our omnipresent God.
Several years post-resurrection, Jesus appeared to Paul on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9). There is no time limit on when and where Jesus will appear to people on earth.
I love how Jesus is free to be where he wants to be. It makes me realize that because he is fully God, he is omnipresent. He is everywhere. We can sense his presence on the earth today and trust him in the midst of our mess.
Put it into practice.
These appearances can encourage us to embrace our joy in the Lord today.
Today, I pray that you will open your eyes and see Jesus at work in your life.
