*Luke 24:44-53
Jesus explains his suffering and resurrection to his disciples, commissions them to spread the message of repentance and forgiveness, and ascends into heaven.
- Jesus’ Explanation of Scripture:
- Jesus opens the minds of his disciples to understand the Scriptures, particularly the prophecies concerning his own suffering, death, and resurrection.
- He emphasizes how everything written about him in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.
- Commissioning of the Disciples:
- Jesus reminds his disciples that they are witnesses of these things, referring to his life, death, and resurrection.
- He instructs them to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins in his name, starting from Jerusalem and extending to all nations.
- Promise of Power from on High:
- Jesus tells his disciples to stay in the city until they have been clothed with power from on high, referring to the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
- Ascension of Jesus:
- Jesus leads his disciples out to Bethany, blesses them, and then ascends into heaven.
- The disciples worship him and return to Jerusalem with great joy.
24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 24:46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
24:48 And ye are witnesses of these things.
24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
24:50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
24:51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
24:52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: 24:53 And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.