Who Saw Jesus After Resurrection
Today we will talk about who saw Jesus after resurrection. Many Christians do not know what this means. When Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to a number of people, and each encounter teaches us something valuable about faith and hope. These appearances are important not only as historical events, but also as spiritual lessons. They show us that Jesus is truly alive and offers us a relationship, even after His physical departure. As we meditate on these encounters, let’s keep our hearts open to the truths and implications that arise from seeing who encountered the risen Christ.
1. Mary Magdalene’s Encounter
Mary Magdalene is often remembered as one of the first and most devoted followers of Jesus. After His resurrection, she became a key witness to the miracle of the empty tomb. According to John 20:11-18, Mary went to the tomb early in the morning and discovered it empty. She wept as she thought someone had taken Jesus’ body away. But then, she had a powerful encounter with the risen Christ. He called her name, and in that moment, everything changed for her. The name “Mary” (Hebrew: Miriam) means “wished for child” or “rebellion,” representing her life journey marked by despair before meeting Jesus. The Greek word for “see” (ὁράω, horao) she experienced refers to understanding —she saw Jesus both physically and spiritually.
In this encounter, Jesus not only addresses her by name (John 20:16), but He also commissions her with the task of telling others about His resurrection, illustrating the importance and honor placed on women in His ministry (Matthew 28:10). Her witness to the disciples marks a turning point in the message of resurrection, as Mary is faithful to share the good news, showcasing how personal encounters with Jesus transform lives and empower us to evangelize (Mark 16:9-10).
2. The Other Women at the Tomb
In addition to Mary Magdalene, other women played a vital role in the resurrection story. Matthew 28:1-10 mentions Mary the mother of James and Salome. When these women came to the tomb, they encountered an angel who proclaimed that Jesus had risen. The Greek word for “angel” (ἄγγελος, angelos) means “messenger,” which highlights how God uses these women as messengers of hope. Like Mary Magdalene, their joy at seeing the angel reinforces the importance of sharing the good news.
The act of women witnessing the resurrection is considered a significant cultural element; in one of the least likely settings for an authoritative proclamation, women were the first to encounter and announce the resurrection (Luke 24:1-10). This underscores the biblical principle that God often chooses the humble and unexpected to fulfill His purposes, as demonstrated throughout scripture (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
3. Peter’s Encounter
Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, had his own encounter with the risen Lord. In Luke 24:34 and 1 Corinthians 15:5, we read that Jesus appeared to Peter specifically. The name “Peter” (Greek: Πέτρος, Petros) means “rock,” which speaks volumes about the leadership role Peter was to play in the early Church. His sighting of the risen Christ reinstated him after his previous denial of Jesus (John 18:15-27).
The significance of Peter’s encounter illustrates the profound grace of God. Despite Peter’s failure, Jesus sought him out, highlighting that no one is beyond redemption (John 21:15-19). Peter’s experience serves as a reminder to all of us: we may wander or falter, but God graciously invites us back into relationship with Him. Through this revelation, we learn about forgiveness, restoration, and the vastness of God’s mercy.
4. The Road to Emmaus
Another remarkable encounter occurred on the road to Emmaus, found in Luke 24:13-35. Two of Jesus’ followers were discussing the events that had transpired, feeling a mix of confusion and sorrow, when the risen Christ joined them without them recognizing Him. The Greek word used for “know” (γινώσκω, ginōskō) illustrates the idea of understanding, implying they did not grasp who He was until later.
As Jesus walked with them, He explained the Scriptures regarding His suffering and glory. Only when He broke bread with them did they realize the truth of His resurrection (Luke 24:31). This encounter shows how Jesus intimately engages in our misunderstandings, providing clarity and revelation that leads to deeper faith. Their experience serves as a powerful reminder of how Jesus meets us in our doubts and despair — prompting us to seek Him in the Scriptures for understanding and hope (Hebrews 11:6).
5. The Disciples’ Encounter in the Upper Room
Jesus appeared to His disciples in the upper room, as noted in John 20:19-23. They were gathered behind locked doors, filled with fear and uncertainty. The Hebrew word for “peace” (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) that Jesus proclaimed to them not only means the absence of conflict but carries a sense of wholeness and well-being. His greeting indicates His desire to calm their fears and assure them of His presence.
One key aspect of this encounter is Jesus showing His wounds to the disciples (John 20:20). The scars of His sacrifice serve as a powerful testament to His love and the reality of His resurrection. This encounter emphasizes the importance of community — being together as believers during challenging times allows for the encouragement and sharing of faith (Matthew 18:20). When Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit upon them (John 20:22), it signifies the empowering of the Church, commissioning them to carry forth His message into the world.
6. Thomas’ Doubt and Faith
One of the most famous encounters after Jesus’ resurrection is with Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas.” In John 20:24-29, Thomas expresses his doubts, insisting he will not believe unless he can see and touch Jesus’ wounds. When Jesus returned and invited Thomas to do just that, He addressed his doubts directly.
The Greek term for “believe” (πιστεύω, pisteuo) reveals its deeper meaning of placing trust and reliance upon Him. This encounter reminds us that it’s natural to have doubts. Jesus does not chastise Thomas but instead meets him where he is, inviting him to believe (John 20:29). Jesus blesses those who believe without seeing, showing that faith can flourish in the hearts of those who trust in Him even without physical evidence. This recounting captures the essence of belief and the significance of Jesus’ resurrection in affirming our faith in unseen realities (Hebrews 11:1).
7. The Great Commission
After revealing Himself to His disciples, Jesus shared the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:16-20. This moment is crucial, as He entrusts the responsibility of spreading the Gospel to them. He reassures them of His presence, promising to be with them always, even to the end of the age.
The word “Go” (πορευθέντες, poreuthentes) implies an active movement; it’s a directive to not only stay put in a comfort zone but to actively engage in sharing the good news. What’s remarkable is that He empowers His disciples, providing them with a mission and purpose — to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to observe all that He commanded (Matthew 28:19-20). This commission reminds us that witnessing the risen Christ transforms our purpose, leading us into action as we share the love and truth of Jesus with others.
8. The Ascension
Jesus’ final appearance occurred during His ascension, recorded in Acts 1:9-11. After giving instructions to His disciples, He ascended into heaven in their sight. The Greek word for “ascend” (ἀναλήμψεως, analempsis) symbolizes His exaltation and rightful position at the right hand of God. His ascension was not just an exit, but an affirmation of the fulfillment of His earthly ministry.
Excitingly, the angelic message “This same Jesus” (Acts 1:11) emphasizes that in the same way He left, He will return. This promise fuels our hope and expectation as believers, reminding us of the ultimate reality that Jesus is triumphant over death and is actively involved in our lives. Even as we wait for His return, we have the assurance of His presence by the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18). This encounter emphasizes that the resurrection leads to a continuing relationship with Christ that is alive and engaged.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the individuals who encountered Jesus after His resurrection enriches our understanding of His victory over death. From Mary Magdalene to Thomas, each encounter allows us to understand the transformative power of faith in the face of doubt and fear. We see how the risen Christ reached out to validate relationships with His followers and to empower them to share their experiences and the good news of His love.
Ultimately, these stories remind us of the hope we have as Christians. Jesus’ resurrection is not merely a historical event but a living reality that connects us with God today. As we journey in our faith, we can find courage to share our testimonies and to trust in the promises He offers, knowing that just as He was present then, He is present with us now. Living in the light of this truth can dramatically shape our perspective and purpose, compelling us to extend that same grace to others. We stand as witnesses to the power of the resurrection in our lives and communities.
May we carry the message of hope and resurrection into every corner of our world, sharing the joy and love we’ve experienced through Christ. Amen.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4