| Series | The Gospel of Luke |
|---|---|
| Theme | 3. Resurrection - Toetu |
| Colour | Lanu Pa’epa’e |
Scripture Focus: Luka 24:36-43
As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace be to you.” But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. He said to them, “Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn’t have flesh and bones, as you see that I have.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While they still didn’t believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. He took them, and ate in front of them.
- Luke 24:36-43 (WEB)
Study:
This passage describes the resurrected Jesus appearing to his disciples. Their initial reaction isn't one of immediate belief, but fear and disbelief – they think they’re seeing a ghost! Jesus patiently addresses their fear and doubt, inviting them to physically interact with him. He invites them to see his hands and feet, to touch him, and even shares a meal with them. This is a powerful demonstration of the reality of his resurrection. It wasn't a spiritual apparition, but a physical reality. The disciples’ stunned joy and wonder underscore the magnitude of the event. Jesus doesn't rebuke their initial doubt, but gently guides them to faith through tangible proof and shared humanity.
Application:
We often struggle with doubt, even when presented with evidence of God’s presence and power. Just like the disciples, we can find it hard to reconcile what we believe with what we experience. This passage reminds us that Jesus meets us in our doubts and fears. He offers reassurance and invites us to encounter him personally. The act of sharing a meal further emphasizes intimacy and fellowship. Jesus not only offers proof of his resurrection but also desires connection with us. This passage challenges us to look for Jesus in the everyday, to seek him out in moments of doubt, and to open our hearts to experience his peace.
Reflection Questions:
- How do I typically react when faced with something that challenges my beliefs?
- In what areas of my life do I struggle most with doubt?
- How can I actively seek evidence of Jesus’ presence in my daily life?
- What does it mean to experience “joyful disbelief,” and how might that apply to my faith journey?
- How do I feel about the image of the resurrected Jesus eating a meal with the disciples? What does this say about the nature of his resurrection?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for appearing to your disciples and revealing yourself as the resurrected one. Forgive us for our moments of doubt and fear. Help us to trust in you and to seek you with an open heart. Reveal yourself to us in the everyday, and fill us with your peace. Amen.
Tags: resurrection, luke, gospel of luke, peace, doubt, faith, disciples, jesus appears, post-resurrection, belief, toetu, lanu pa’epa’e