Bible Study- Luke 24: 11-53 Encountering the Risen Jesus

The Ascension

Hello, Bible Nerds! Ryan here, thrilled to continue our journey through the Gospel of Luke. Today, we’re focusing on Luke 24:11-53—the incredible story of Jesus’s appearances after His resurrection, His revelation to the disciples, and His command to share the Good News with the world.

This passage is packed with profound lessons about faith, Scripture, and our mission as followers of Christ. It reminds us that the resurrection isn’t just a historical event; it’s a living reality that changes everything. So, let’s unpack this powerful story step by step.

Verses 11-12: Doubt Amidst Evidence

The story begins with the disciples’ initial disbelief. The women’s report of the empty tomb is dismissed as “nonsense," and Peter, however, runs to the tomb and sees the linen cloths by themselves, marveling at what has happened. This shows us that even with clear evidence—an empty tomb—faith can still be challenging. Sometimes, belief requires divine intervention and trusting in what we cannot yet fully see.

Lesson: Trust in the evidence, and remember that faith often involves wrestling with doubt before understanding.

Verses 13-35: The Walk to Emmaus—Understanding Through Scripture

Two disciples on the road to Emmaus are disheartened, grieving over Jesus’s death. Jesus joins them, though they don’t recognize Him at first. He starts to explain the Scriptures, showing how everything written about Him in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms points to His suffering, death, and resurrection.

When they finally recognize Jesus during the breaking of bread, their hearts burn with newfound understanding and joy. Their journey shows us that Jesus Himself is the key to unlocking Scripture. He reveals Himself through His Word and our spiritual walk.

Lesson: Spend time in Scripture—Jesus speaks through His Word today, just as He did then. Let Him open your eyes to His truth.

Verses 36-43: The Risen Jesus Confirms His Identity

Suddenly, Jesus appears among the disciples—startled and frightened, they think they’re seeing a ghost. But Jesus reassures them with His words: "Peace be with you." To prove He’s truly alive, He shows His hands and feet, and even eats a piece of fish.

This is critical—Jesus isn’t a spirit; He’s risen bodily. His physical resurrection is proof of His victory and the foundation of our faith.

Lesson: Our faith rests on the bodily, physical resurrection of Jesus. He’s alive and at work in our lives today.

Verses 44-49: Scripture Fulfilled & The Great Commission

Jesus then opens their understanding to see how the Scriptures foretold everything about His suffering and resurrection. He reminds them of His words: "Repentance and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."  

He commissions the disciples: "Stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." The Holy Spirit is coming soon, empowering them to be His witnesses.

Key Point: The resurrection isn’t just a past event; it’s the beginning of Jesus’s mission for His followers today. We are called to share this victorious hope.

Verses 50-53: The Ascension and Response

Jesus leads His disciples outside Bethany, blesses them, and ascends into heaven. Their response? Worship and joy—knowing Jesus reigns in glory, and their mission has just begun.

This act of ascension reminds us that Jesus now reigns in heaven and will return someday. Our job is to live with hope, empowered by the Spirit, sharing the love of Christ until His return.

Key Themes and Takeaways

• Encounter and Revelation: Jesus reveals Himself to us through Scripture and Spirit. We walk by faith, trusting His promises.

• The Power of the Resurrection: It’s the foundation of our faith—proof that death has been defeated.

• Mission and Empowerment: As followers, we are commissioned to share the Gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

• Worship and Joy: In knowing Christ is alive, our hearts overflow with worship and hope.

Practical Applications

1. Seek Jesus in Scripture: Allow Jesus to open your eyes through His Word. Spend daily time in Scripture and ask Him to reveal Himself to you.

2. Trust in His Power: Even amid doubts and difficulties, trust that Jesus’s resurrection secures your victory over sin and death.

3. Live Missionally: Remember, you are called to be a witness. Share the hope of the Gospel with those around you—through words, actions, and every opportunity God gives you. The risen Christ has commissioned us to spread His love to all nations.

4. Worship with Joy: Let the realization that Jesus is alive fill your heart with joy and worship. No matter what circumstances you face, the resurrection guarantees victory and hope.

Final Reflection

Luke 24 isn’t just an account of the disciples’ encounter with the risen Jesus—it's a call for us to believe, trust, and participate in God's ongoing redemptive plan. Jesus is alive today, reigning in glory, and His power is available to transform your life.

As you meditate on this passage, remember: the resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith. It’s the reason Christians celebrate Easter and live with hope every day. The tomb is empty—death is defeated—victory is ours in Christ.

Thank you for nerding out with me on this powerful passage today. I pray it encourages your faith, fuels your witness, and deepens your love for Jesus. If this blog blessed you, please like, share, and subscribe. And I invite you to read Luke Chapter 24 for yourself—pause, pray, and let the truth of the resurrection fill you anew.

Visit BibleN3rd.com or search BibleN3rd on Facebook and YouTube for more resources, reflections, and community. I love studying Scripture with you, and I am excited to continue exploring the Gospel, Acts, and more.

Until next time, may the power of the risen Jesus fill your day with hope, purpose, and joy. Keep trusting Him—He is alive!