After the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, His followers were devastated. However, their sorrow turned into joy when they saw Him alive again.
According to the Bible, Jesus appeared to His disciples and various other people after His resurrection. But how many times did He appear? Let’s take a closer look.
Appearances of Jesus After Resurrection
According to the New Testament scriptures, Jesus appeared to different people on several occasions after His resurrection. Here are some of the recorded instances:
1. Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene was the first person to see Jesus after His resurrection.
She went to the tomb early in the morning but found it empty. As she wept outside the tomb, Jesus appeared to her and spoke with her (John 20:11-18).
2. The Disciples on the Road to Emmaus
Two disciples were walking on a road to Emmaus when Jesus appeared and walked with them.
They didn’t recognize Him at first, but later realized it was Him when He broke bread with them (Luke 24:13-35).
3. The Eleven Disciples
Jesus appeared to His eleven disciples in a room where they were hiding after His crucifixion.
He showed them His hands and feet and ate fish with them (Luke 24:36-43).
4. Thomas
Thomas was not present when Jesus appeared to the other disciples, so he doubted their claims of seeing Him alive again.
A week later, Jesus appeared again in front of Thomas and allowed him to touch his wounds (John 20:24-29).
5. Seven Disciples by the Sea of Galilee
Jesus appeared to seven disciples who were fishing by the Sea of Galilee.
He helped them catch fish and ate breakfast with them (John 21:1-14).
6. Five Hundred Followers
Jesus appeared to over five hundred followers at once in Galilee and spoke with them about the Kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:6).
7. James
Jesus appeared to James, His half-brother, after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7).
Conclusion
The Bible records at least seven different appearances of Jesus after His resurrection. These appearances brought hope and encouragement to His followers, proving that He had risen from the dead just as He had promised. The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, and Jesus’ appearances after it solidify that belief even more.