Luke’s gospel contains a unique resurrection account. Two disciples saw and talked with the risen Savior on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). Their testimony is the centerpiece of Luke’s resurrection story!

Jesus first appears to these disciples as a total stranger. This is because they were “prevented” in some way from recognizing Him (Luke 24:16). This allows Jesus to observe their reaction to what had happened to Him in Jerusalem.

The Road to Emmaus

  • Emmaus was about seven miles from Jerusalem (Luke 24:13).
  • These two disciples were traveling to Emmaus from Jerusalem and debating the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord (Luke 24:14-15). They were sad because they believed that the cause of Christ was over (Luke 24:17).
  • They are shocked that the unknown traveler (Jesus) had not heard about what happened in Jerusalem three days prior (Luke 24:18-20).
  • They don’t seem convinced that Jesus had been raised from the dead (Luke 24:21-24). They said, “We were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel.” Many of the Jews were eagerly anticipating redemption from the Messiah (Luke 2:36-38). They believed that Jesus would liberate them from Roman oppression and bring back the glorious days of King David.
  • The Lord used the Old Testament Scriptures to help them understand the truth about the Messiah (Luke 24:25-27). He would also do the same thing with the apostles (Luke 24:44).
  • While having supper with Jesus, the eyes of the disciples were opened, and they recognized Him (Luke 24:28-31). The Lord then miraculously vanishes away!
  • The disciples return to Jerusalem and report to the apostles about their experience (Luke 24:32-35). They all celebrate the risen Lord!

The Lessons about Jesus and the Word of God

  • The word of God is all about Jesus (Luke 24:27, 44-45). The Bible is one continuous story about how God uses His Son to save the world from sin.
  • There is always room to grow in the word of God. These men had the humility to listen, be taught, and better understand Jesus through the Scriptures. The Ethiopian treasurer had a similar attitude (Acts 8:25-35).
  • The word of God is sufficient to produce faith in Jesus (Luke 24:32). Teaching from the Scriptures made their hearts burn within them. It put within them zeal and passion for God!
  • The word of God must be shared (Luke 24:33-35). After being taught by Jesus, the two disciples rushed back to Jerusalem (seven miles) to proclaim the risen Savior. Those truly convicted by Jesus’ resurrection can’t keep quiet about it!

Conclusion:

The resurrection of Jesus changed these disciples. Have you also been changed by it?