What Did Jesus Do After His Resurrection?
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one
of the central events in Christian theology and marks the foundation of the Christian faith. After Jesus’ death on the cross, His resurrection brought forth a new era of hope, salvation, and victory over death. What Jesus did after His resurrection is not only of historical significance but also of deep theological importance. It offers profound lessons on faith, the mission of the Church, and the nature of God’s redemption plan for humanity.
In the Bible, particularly in the Gospels and Acts, we see numerous appearances and actions by Jesus post-resurrection. These moments are not mere historical facts but are deeply symbolic, providing essential insights into Christian doctrine and spirituality.
1. The Appearance to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18)
One of the first recorded appearances of Jesus after His resurrection was to Mary Magdalene. Mary had gone to the tomb early in the morning and found that it was empty. After seeing the tomb empty, she began weeping, thinking that someone had taken Jesus’ body. But when she turned around, she saw Jesus, although she did not immediately recognize Him. It was only when Jesus called her by name, “Mary,” that she realized who He was. This personal encounter with Jesus is significant for several reasons:
- Personal relationship: Jesus’ first appearance to Mary highlights the personal nature of His resurrection. It wasn’t just a theological event; it was an invitation for individuals to have a personal encounter with the risen Lord.
- The calling by name: Jesus calls Mary by name, showing that He knows us intimately. In the resurrection, Jesus is not only a Savior for the world but also for each person.
- Hope for the grieving: Mary’s grief was turned into joy through her encounter with Jesus. This shows how the resurrection brings hope and healing for those who mourn.
2. The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Later on the same day, two disciples were traveling to a village called Emmaus, discussing the recent events of Jesus’ death and the reports of His resurrection. Jesus appeared to them, though they did not recognize Him immediately. He explained to them how the Scriptures pointed to the Messiah’s suffering and resurrection. Only when they sat down to eat with Him did they recognize Him in the breaking of the bread.
This post-resurrection encounter offers several important insights:
- Scriptural fulfillment: Jesus opened their eyes to understand how His death and resurrection were the fulfillment of God’s promises throughout the Scriptures.
- Jesus in the ordinary: The disciples did not recognize Jesus at first because He appeared in an ordinary, unassuming manner. This teaches us that God can be present even in the most ordinary circumstances of life.
- The breaking of bread: The moment when Jesus broke the bread and revealed Himself mirrors the Last Supper. It is a reminder of communion, the sacrament that signifies Jesus’ sacrifice and the fellowship believers share with Him.
3. The Appearance to the Apostles (Luke 24:36-49; John 20:19-23)
Later, Jesus appeared to His apostles. In one instance, He appeared to them in a locked room, showing them His hands and feet to prove that He was not a ghost. Jesus then ate with them and breathed on them, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22).
This event is crucial because:
- Jesus’ physical resurrection: His disciples were able to touch Him, and He ate food in their presence. This demonstrates that Jesus’ resurrection was not a spiritual event alone, but a physical reality. Jesus’ body was transformed, yet still recognizable and tangible.
- The gift of the Holy Spirit: Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit was fulfilled when He breathed on His disciples. The Holy Spirit would empower them to carry on His mission and be witnesses to His resurrection. This event sets the stage for Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all believers.
- Peace and reassurance: Jesus’ greeting, “Peace be with you,” is a message of comfort and reconciliation. In His resurrection, Jesus brought peace to His disciples, reassuring them of His victory over sin and death.
4. Jesus Restores Peter (John 21:15-19)
One of the most poignant post-resurrection events is the restoration of Peter. After denying Jesus three times before His crucifixion, Peter was deeply remorseful. In John 21, after a miraculous catch of fish, Jesus appeared to His disciples on the shore. He asked Peter three times, “Do you love Me?” and each time Peter responded affirmatively. Jesus then instructed Peter to “Feed My sheep,” reinstating him to a position of leadership.
This encounter is deeply significant because:
- Forgiveness and restoration: Peter’s threefold denial is countered by Jesus’ threefold affirmation of love. This teaches us about the power of forgiveness and restoration. No matter how grievous our mistakes may be, Jesus offers us a chance to be restored.
- Leadership in the Church: Jesus’ commission to Peter to “feed My sheep” shows the leadership role Peter was to play in the early Church. This event also affirms the importance of pastoral care and nurturing believers in the faith.
5. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20)
Before His ascension into heaven, Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission. He told them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He had commanded. This commission is not only a command but a promise of His ongoing presence and support.
The Great Commission is significant for several reasons:
- Global mission: Jesus’ instructions extend beyond Israel. He calls His followers to go to all nations, spreading the message of the Gospel worldwide.
- Trinitarian baptism: The command to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit reveals the essential doctrine of the Trinity, which lies at the heart of Christian faith.
- Divine presence: Jesus promises, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This assures Christians of God’s continual presence and guidance as they fulfill the mission.
6. The Ascension of Jesus (Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-11)
After spending forty days with His disciples, teaching them about the Kingdom of God, Jesus ascended into heaven in their presence. As He ascended, two angels appeared and told the disciples that Jesus would return in the same way they saw Him go.
The ascension is a pivotal event because:
- Jesus’ glorification: The ascension marks Jesus’ return to His rightful place at the right hand of God. It is a sign of His victory over death, sin, and the powers of evil. Jesus’ exaltation shows that He is the King, and His rule is eternal.
- The promise of His return: The angels’ declaration about Jesus’ return reminds believers of the Second Coming. It reinforces the hope that Jesus will return to establish His Kingdom fully and bring justice to the world.
Conclusion
The post-resurrection actions and appearances of Jesus are not just historical events but rich theological moments that shape Christian belief and practice. They affirm Jesus’ physical resurrection, His continuing work in the world, and His mission to spread the Gospel. Through His interactions with individuals and His disciples, Jesus demonstrated forgiveness, empowerment, leadership, and the promise of His presence. These appearances were not merely a validation of His resurrection, but a demonstration of His ongoing relationship with His followers.
Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances provide deep insight into the nature of the Kingdom of God, the role of the Church, and the power of the resurrection to transform lives. For Christians today, these events remind us of the hope, peace, and purpose we find in the resurrected Christ.
Meta Description: Discover what Jesus did after His resurrection and the profound theological implications of His post-resurrection appearances. Learn how these events shape the Christian faith today.
Discussion Questions:
- What do Jesus’ interactions with Mary Magdalene and the two disciples on the road to Emmaus teach us about the personal nature of the resurrection?
- How does the Great Commission relate to the mission of the Church today?
- In what ways does the restoration of Peter highlight the power of forgiveness and redemption in the Christian life?
May God’s grace be with you.
