Luke 24:36 is about Jesus appearing to his disciples after his resurrection, proving the reality of the resurrection and fulfilling the prophecies of Scripture.
36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!”
Setting the Scene for Luke 24:36
In Luke chapter 24, we find the scene where Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection. The disciples are gathered together in a room, filled with fear and confusion after the crucifixion of Jesus. Suddenly, Jesus appears among them, despite the doors being locked, and greets them with the words, “Peace be with you.”
The disciples are startled and frightened, thinking they are seeing a ghost. Jesus then shows them his hands and feet, bearing the marks of the crucifixion, to prove that he is indeed alive. He reassures them, eats with them to show he is not a spirit, and opens their minds to understand the scriptures that foretold his death and resurrection.
The room is dimly lit, with a sense of heaviness and uncertainty lingering in the air. The disciples present include Peter, John, James, and the others who had followed Jesus during his ministry. Their emotions range from disbelief to joy as they witness the miraculous presence of their beloved teacher and friend, now risen from the dead.
What is Luke 24:36 about?
How reassuring it must have been for the disciples to see Jesus in the flesh after his resurrection, dispelling any doubts they may have had about his return. Imagine the joy and relief they must have felt in that moment, seeing their beloved teacher and friend standing before them once again.
This verse underscores the physicality of Jesus’ resurrection, emphasizing that he was not a ghost or a mere apparition, but truly alive in bodily form. It speaks to the tangible reality of Jesus’ victory over death and his continued presence among his followers. Jesus not only reassured his disciples of his resurrection but also affirmed his identity as the Son of God by appearing to them in this way. It serves as a powerful reminder of the faithfulness and power of God, and the promise of eternal life for all who believe in him.
Understanding what Luke 24:36 really means
In Luke 24:36, we find a poignant moment after Jesus’ resurrection, where He appears to His disciples who are gathered together. The disciples, in a state of fear and confusion, had heard reports of Jesus’ resurrection but had not yet fully grasped its significance. This setting is crucial as it sets the stage for Jesus to bring clarity and reassurance to His followers.
One key phrase in this verse is “Jesus himself stood among them,” highlighting the physical reality of Jesus’ resurrection. He is not a mere apparition but truly present in the flesh, emphasizing the miraculous nature of His victory over death. Another significant phrase is “Peace be with you,” a common Jewish greeting that, in this context, carries profound meaning. It serves as a balm for the disciples’ troubled hearts, offering them comfort and calm in the midst of their turmoil.
In John 20:19-21, a parallel account, Jesus again appears to the disciples and repeats the words, “Peace be with you,” reinforcing the message of peace and the reality of His resurrection. Philippians 4:7 further expands on this theme, promising that the peace of God, surpassing all understanding, will guard the hearts and minds of believers in Christ Jesus. These passages connect the peace Jesus offers with the enduring tranquility that believers can experience through faith.
The relevance of this verse to people today is profound. In a world filled with fear and uncertainty, the message of peace that Jesus brings remains incredibly pertinent. Just as the disciples grappled with confusion and fear, individuals today face their own anxieties and doubts. The presence of Jesus and His offer of peace serve as a beacon of hope and solace in turbulent times.
Consider a scenario where someone has recently lost their job and is overwhelmed with worry about the future. They may feel trapped in a room of fear, much like the disciples. However, recalling Jesus’ words, “Peace be with you,” can infuse them with a sense of tranquility and assurance that they are not alone, and that there is a brighter tomorrow beyond their current struggles.
In conclusion, Luke 24:36 encapsulates a powerful reminder of Jesus’ tangible presence and His desire to bring peace into our lives. It encourages us to actively seek and embrace the peace that Jesus offers, especially during life’s most challenging moments. May we find comfort in His words and allow His peace to reign in our hearts, guiding us through every trial and tribulation.
How can we recognize Jesus in our midst today?
We can recognize Jesus in our midst today through His presence in our lives. We can see Jesus in the love, compassion, grace, and peace that He brings to our lives, just as the disciples recognized Jesus by His physical presence among them after His resurrection. When we experience the forgiveness of sins, the comfort in times of trouble, the guidance in moments of uncertainty, and the hope for tomorrow, we can see Jesus working in our lives.
Jesus is also present in the community of believers. When we gather together as a church, whether in person or virtually, we can see Jesus in the unity, fellowship, worship, and service that we share. Through our interactions with one another, we can experience the love of Christ, the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, and the guidance of God’s Word. We can recognize Jesus working through us to bring His kingdom on earth as we live out our faith in community.
Furthermore, we can recognize Jesus in our midst today by looking for His work in the world around us. When we see acts of kindness, justice, mercy, and compassion, we can see Jesus at work through His followers. We can participate in bringing the presence of Jesus into our communities and shining His light in a dark world by being attentive to the needs of others, reaching out in love, and standing up for what is right.
Application
Let us embrace faith like a sturdy umbrella in a storm, shielding us from fear and doubt in our daily battles. In those moments of doubt, remember that His presence is your constant companion, offering peace and reassurance. Will you choose to anchor yourself in His promises, boldly stepping forward with unwavering trust, leaving behind the weight of anxiety? Let us walk this journey of faith together, hand in hand with our Saviour, illuminating our path with courage and grace.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.