Epaggelia

Resurrection is not a mystical vision or a phantom appearance by a ghost. Resurrection is the transforming of matter in this created order. He becomes something new, something unique. The Bible records at least eight appearances of the resurrected Jesus to different people at various times and locations over a 40-day period before He ascended into heaven. In each of these appearances, there is a victory. The price of unbelief brings upon us the rebuke of God, v14.

First, Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene at the tomb (Mark 16:9). Mary was weeping at the tomb, thinking she had lost Jesus forever. Jesus appeared and brought victory over despair.

Second, Jesus appeared to other women as they were leaving the tomb (Matthew 28:9-10). They thought he was dead, but he appeared to them, and they worshiped Him there. Jesus brought victory over death.

Third, Jesus met up with two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-32). These men were talking about all the week’s events surrounding Jesus. They didn’t understand what had happened. Jesus talked with them and stayed with them until they understood. Jesus brought victory over confusion & ignorance.

Fourth, Jesus appeared to 10 disciples who were hiding together (Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-25). These disciples were afraid of what might happen to them since Jesus had been killed. Jesus brought victory over fear.

Fifth, Jesus appeared to all 11 remaining disciples (Mark 16:14; John 20:26-31). Thomas, who had doubted Jesus’ resurrection, was with them this time. Jesus brought victory over prideful insistence.

Sixth, Jesus appeared to seven disciples, including Peter, who had denied Jesus three times (John 21). At this appearance, Jesus puts Peter back into ministry. Jesus brought victory over failure.

Seventh, Jesus appeared to the 11 disciples on a mountain in Galilee (Matthew 28:16-20). There Jesus told them He had been given all power and authority. He gave these disciples the great commission to make other disciples and sent them, now they are apostles! Jesus brought victory over any other power.

Eighth, Jesus finally appeared confirming the completion of His mission and the promise of the Holy Spirit (Luke 22:44-51; Acts 1:3-8). Jesus had victory over the future.

Then Jesus’ followers watched Him ascend to heaven. He disappeared from sight into a cloud. Suddenly two men in white stood before the disciples and told them Jesus would return the same way He was taken up into heaven. The Bible teaches that Jesus will return to judge the earth in His everlasting kingdom, delivering us to the Father, 1st Corinthians 15:24-28.

16:20 , see Jn. 14:11, Both Jesus and his apostles had the same purpose in performing miracles, that is to confirm the message taught as authoritatively from God! Miracles were never isolated events of powerful mercy, Jesus and his apostles had a message connected to each of them! The good news was governed by divine power! Once the Word was established & once for all entrusted to the church, (Jude v3) it remains to this day by the same power of God. We therefore don’t need miracles today, we need faith in his powerful word, Mk. 12:24.