AFTER EASTER: POST-RESURRECTION ENCOUNTERS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 24:13-35
“And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.”
Supporting Texts: John 20:11–29; 1 Corinthians 15:3–8; Acts 1:1–3; Matthew 28:9–10
INTRODUCTION:
After the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the story of salvation did not end—it entered a new and powerful phase. The risen Christ began to reveal Himself in unforgettable ways, not just to affirm His victory over death, but to transform and commission His followers for the mission ahead. These post-resurrection encounters were full of meaning, revelation, and empowerment.
Many Christians celebrate Easter without understanding the divine significance of the events that followed. The empty tomb was the beginning of a series of divine appearances designed to restore broken hearts, ignite faith, and prepare the disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the expansion of the Gospel.
This message explores some of the post-resurrection encounters of Jesus and how they still speak to us today. Each appearance was intentional, personal, and transformational. As we examine them, may our hearts burn afresh with passion, purpose, and power.
1. THE ENCOUNTER THAT RESTORES THE BROKEN
Jesus met Mary Magdalene in her sorrow to bring hope.
a) He Calls Us by Name
Jesus addressed Mary personally, restoring her dignity (John 20:16).
b) He Turns Tears Into Testimony
Her mourning turned into a mission (John 20:17-18).
c) He Meets Us at Our Lowest
Mary found Jesus while weeping (Psalm 34:18).
d) He Entrusts the Message of Hope
She became the first herald of His resurrection (Mark 16:9-10).
Biblical Example: Jesus’ appearance to Mary Magdalene at the tomb (John 20:11–18).
2. THE ENCOUNTER THAT IGNITES FAITH
Jesus walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus.
a) He Comes Alongside in Our Confusion
They didn’t recognise Him, yet He stayed near (Luke 24:15-16).
b) He Opens the Scriptures
He explained all things concerning Himself (Luke 24:27).
c) He Rekindles Spiritual Passion
Their hearts burned within them (Luke 24:32).
d) He Reveals Himself in Fellowship
He broke bread with them, and their eyes were opened (Luke 24:30-31).
Biblical Example: The two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35).
3. THE ENCOUNTER THAT REMOVES DOUBT
Jesus confronted Thomas’s unbelief with evidence.
a) He Meets Us in Our Questions
Thomas voiced his doubts, and Jesus responded (John 20:27).
b) He Provides Tangible Proof
Jesus showed His hands and side (John 20:20).
c) He Blesses Future Believers
“Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
d) He Transforms Doubters Into Worshippers
Thomas declared, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28).
Biblical Example: Jesus appears to Thomas and removes his doubt (John 20:24–29).
4. THE ENCOUNTER THAT REINSTATES PURPOSE
Jesus restored Peter after his denial.
a) He Rebuilds What We Ruined
Peter denied Christ three times, but Jesus asked him three times if he loved Him (John 21:15-17).
b) He Looks Beyond Failure
Jesus focused on Peter’s future, not his past (Jeremiah 29:11).
c) He Commissions the Broken
“Feed my sheep” was the call to service (John 21:17).
d) He Trusts Us with His Kingdom
Despite failure, Peter was chosen to lead (Matthew 16:18-19).
Biblical Example: Jesus restores Peter by the Sea of Tiberias (John 21:1–19).
5. THE ENCOUNTER THAT EMPOWERS THE CALLED
Jesus prepared His disciples for the great commission.
a) He Gave Peace
“Peace be unto you” (John 20:21) was His greeting.
b) He Breathed the Spirit
He empowered them with the Holy Ghost (John 20:22).
c) He Confirmed Their Assignment
“As the Father hath sent Me, so send I you” (John 20:21).
d) He Assured His Presence
“Lo, I am with you always…” (Matthew 28:20).
Biblical Example: Jesus commissions the disciples in the upper room (John 20:19–23; Matthew 28:18–20).
CONCLUSION:
The post-resurrection encounters of Christ reveal a God who is deeply personal, powerfully present, and eternally purposeful. He meets us in our pain, strengthens our faith, removes our doubts, restores our identity, and empowers us for His work. These are not just historical accounts—they are patterns for every believer’s experience.
After Easter, the journey continues. Jesus is still drawing near to those who seek Him, still igniting hearts, and still commissioning lives. Let us walk with Him daily, encounter Him deeply, and reflect His glory continually.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to recognise Your presence in every season.
2. Ignite my heart again with passion for Your Word.
3. Remove every doubt and strengthen my faith in You.
4. Restore my purpose and commission me afresh.
5. Empower me to live out the resurrection life boldly.
