After Jesus’ resurrection, he appeared multiple times to his followers before ascending to heaven. The Bible provides accounts of these appearances, giving us insight into the events that took place during this time. In this article, we’ll explore how many post-resurrection appearances Jesus made to his followers.
Appearance to Mary Magdalene
The first recorded appearance of Jesus after his resurrection was to Mary Magdalene. According to John 20:14-17, Mary went to the tomb and found it empty.
She was weeping outside the tomb when she saw Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him at first. When he called her by name, she realized who he was.
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene after his resurrection.
Appearance to Two Disciples on the Road to Emmaus
The next recorded appearance of Jesus was to two disciples who were walking on the road to Emmaus. According to Luke 24:13-35, these disciples didn’t recognize Jesus at first either. However, as they walked and talked with him, their eyes were opened and they realized who he was.
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared to two disciples while they were walking on the road to Emmaus.
Appearance to Eleven Disciples (excluding Thomas)
Jesus’ next appearance was to eleven of his disciples (excluding Thomas) in a locked room in Jerusalem. According to John 20:19-23 and Luke 24:36-49, Jesus appeared suddenly in their midst and showed them his hands and side. He then breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared suddenly in a locked room in Jerusalem and showed himself alive to eleven of his disciples (excluding Thomas).
Appearance to Thomas and Seven Disciples by the Sea of Galilee
After Jesus’ appearance to the eleven disciples, he appeared again to Thomas and seven other disciples by the Sea of Galilee. According to John 21:1-14, Jesus performed a miracle by helping the disciples catch a large number of fish. He then cooked breakfast for them on the shore.
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared to Thomas and seven other disciples by the Sea of Galilee and performed a miracle.
Appearance to Over 500 Disciples
The Apostle Paul records that Jesus also appeared to over 500 disciples at one time. This is mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:6, where Paul states that most of these people were still alive at the time of his writing.
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared to over 500 disciples at one time.
Appearance to James
The final recorded appearance of Jesus after his resurrection was to James. This is mentioned in passing in 1 Corinthians 15:7, but we don’t have any further details about this appearance.
Key takeaway: Jesus appeared to James after his resurrection.
In Conclusion
In total, there are six recorded appearances of Jesus after his resurrection. These appearances provide powerful evidence not only for Jesus’ resurrection but also for his divine nature and mission. As we reflect on these accounts, may they deepen our faith and strengthen our resolve to follow Christ wholeheartedly.