The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in Christian history. After his crucifixion on the cross, he rose from the dead three days later, as prophesied in the scriptures.
But when exactly was Jesus first seen after his resurrection? Let’s dive into the details.
The Resurrection
According to the Bible, on the third day after his crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead. Mary Magdalene and some other women went to visit his tomb early in the morning and found it empty. An angel appeared to them and told them that Jesus had risen from the dead.
Mary Magdalene Sees Jesus
After visiting the empty tomb, Mary Magdalene encountered Jesus himself. According to John 20:14-16, she initially mistook him for a gardener and asked him where he had taken Jesus’ body. But then, Jesus spoke her name, and she recognized him.
The Disciples See Jesus
Later that same day, while two disciples were walking on a road to Emmaus, they encountered a stranger who began walking with them. They didn’t recognize this person as being Jesus until he broke bread with them at dinner.
Then, in Luke 24:36-43, we learn that while these two disciples were recounting their experience to others in a room, suddenly Jesus appeared among them. They were frightened at first because they thought they were seeing a ghost. However, he showed them his hands and feet to prove that he was not a ghost but had risen from the dead.
Thomas Sees Jesus
One disciple named Thomas was not present when Jesus appeared to the others. He famously declared that he would not believe until he saw with his own eyes the nail marks in Jesus’ hands and put his fingers where those nails had been.
A week later, Jesus appeared to Thomas and the other disciples again, as recorded in John 20:26-29. This time, Thomas was present, and Jesus invited him to touch his wounds. Thomas then declared his faith in Jesus as Lord and God.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jesus was first seen after his resurrection by Mary Magdalene. Later that same day, he appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus and then to the rest of his disciples in a room. A week later, he appeared again when Thomas was present.
The resurrection of Jesus is a cornerstone of Christian faith and belief. The fact that he rose from the dead is evidence that he is who he claimed to be – the Son of God.