After Jesus was crucified and buried, his disciples were heartbroken and scared. However, on the third day after his death, something miraculous happened – Jesus rose from the dead!
But where did he first appear to his disciples after resurrection? Let’s explore the various accounts in the Bible.
The Resurrection of Jesus
Before we dive into where Jesus appeared to his disciples, let’s take a closer look at the resurrection itself. According to the Gospel of Matthew, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to visit Jesus’ tomb on the third day after his death.
Suddenly, there was a great earthquake and an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled back the stone blocking the entrance to the tomb, and sat on it. The guards who were stationed there were so frightened that they became like dead men.
The angel then said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said.
Come, see the place where He was lying.” (Matthew 28:5-6)
Appearances in Jerusalem
After this incredible event, Jesus began appearing to his disciples in various locations. According to Luke 24:13-35, two disciples were walking along a road to Emmaus when they encountered a man who was actually Jesus in disguise. They didn’t recognize him at first but eventually realized who he was when he broke bread with them.
Later that same day, Jesus appeared to ten of his disciples (Judas Iscariot had betrayed him and Thomas was not present) while they were gathered together in Jerusalem. According to John 20:19-23, he appeared before them despite having locked doors. The disciples were understandably frightened but Jesus reassured them by showing them his wounds and breathing on them, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Appearance in Galilee
In Matthew 28:16-20, Jesus appeared to his disciples on a mountain in Galilee. This is where he famously gave them the Great Commission, telling them to go and make disciples of all nations.
The Importance of the Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus is one of the most important events in Christianity. It represents the ultimate victory over death and sin and serves as a powerful symbol of hope for believers.
As 1 Corinthians 15:14 states, “And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain.”
In conclusion, Jesus appeared to his disciples multiple times after his resurrection – first in Jerusalem and later in Galilee. These appearances served as proof of his miraculous resurrection and provided comfort and guidance to his followers.