After the Resurrection, Jesus had many conversations with his disciples and followers. These conversations were filled with profound teachings and revelations that have continued to shape the Christian faith to this day.
The Great Commission
One of the most well-known post-resurrection conversations that Jesus had was with his disciples on a mountain in Galilee. This is where he gave them what is now known as the Great Commission:
Matthew 28:19-20: “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.”
This commandment has been taken as a call to evangelize and spread the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the world.
The Road to Emmaus
Another significant conversation happened on the road to Emmaus, where two of Jesus’ disciples were walking and discussing his death. Jesus appeared to them, but they did not recognize him at first. He explained to them how all of Scripture pointed towards his coming and suffering.
Luke 24:27: “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.”
This conversation highlights how Jesus saw himself as central to God’s plan for humanity.
Peter’s Restoration
After denying Jesus three times before his crucifixion, Peter was understandably feeling guilty and ashamed. But after Jesus’ resurrection, he sought out Peter specifically for a conversation that would lead to his restoration.
John 21:15-17: “When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ He said to him a second time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’
He said to him, ‘Tend my sheep.’ He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.'”
This conversation shows how Jesus was willing to forgive even the most egregious sins and how he called on his followers to serve and care for others.
The Ascension
Finally, Jesus’ last conversation with his disciples happened just before his ascension into heaven. He reiterated the Great Commission and promised them the Holy Spirit would come upon them.
Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
This conversation marked a turning point for Christianity as it set the stage for the spread of Christianity throughout the world.
In conclusion, Jesus’ post-resurrection conversations were filled with teachings that continue to shape Christianity today. From evangelizing and spreading the good news of Christ throughout the world to serving others with humility and forgiveness. These conversations show us a glimpse into who Jesus was as a person and what he believed was important.