UNDERSTANDING LUKE 24

The Risen Savior and Our Mission to the World

Early on the first day of the week, the women who followed Jesus return to His tomb with spices they have prepared. Instead of finding His body, they discover that the stone has been rolled away and the tomb is empty. Two men in dazzling clothing announce that Jesus is not there because He has risen. They remind the women that Jesus had already foretold His suffering, death, and resurrection. The women hurry to tell the apostles, but their report is initially met with disbelief.

Later that day, two disciples travel toward the village of Emmaus, discussing everything that has happened. Jesus Himself joins them, although they do not recognize Him. As they walk, He explains how Moses and the Prophets pointed toward the Messiah’s suffering and glory. When Jesus breaks bread with them, their eyes are opened, and they recognize Him. They immediately return to Jerusalem to share what they have experienced. Their encounter reminds us that the death and resurrection of Jesus are central to understanding the message of Scripture.

Jesus then appears to the gathered disciples, offering them peace and showing them that He is truly alive. He invites them to see His hands and feet and even eats in their presence, confirming the reality of His bodily resurrection. Jesus opens their minds to understand the Scriptures and explains that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. He commissions His followers to proclaim repentance for the forgiveness of sins in His name to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem. After promising the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus blesses His disciples and is taken up into heaven. They respond with worship and great joy. As you read, consider how the resurrection of Jesus changes your understanding of Scripture, strengthens your hope, and calls you to share the good news with others.