The Disciples

While they were still talking about this,

Jesus Himself stood among them…

Luke 24:36

Jesus appeared to the disciples while they were still talking about Jesus appearing to Cleopas.  Even after digesting the vivid story relayed by the Emmaus men, these men are frightened by their Master’s presence among them and think “they saw a ghost.”  Jesus invites them to look at His hands and His feet, and touch him, for a ghost “does not have flesh and bones, and you see I have.”

Jesus asked for something to eat, and then sat these men down for a history lesson, similar to the one He had with Cleopas and his friend.  The Bible says He opened their minds to the Law of Moses (the Pentateuch), the prophets, and the Psalms.  The disciples were to be sent out to the rest of the known world, carrying the message of a risen Savior to any who would listen,  It was imperative that they know the Scriptures upon which their message was built.  Then Jesus admonished them to stay in Jerusalem until they received the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle John  tells the story of Thomas, who apparently was not present at this first visit by Jesus after the resurrection.  When told of this wonderful miracle, Thomas dug his heels in and refused to believe their story.  He demanded personal proof, and Jesus graciously provided it.  There is no length that Jesus will not go to strengthen the faith of His children.