The Epilogue - 13: Jesus Revealed Again
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 4 2024 | John 21:1-14
KEY VERSE:
This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after He was raised from the dead. John 21:14 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
John 20:24-29 recounts Jesus’ second post-resurrection encounter with His disciples. When the others told Thomas, “We have seen the Lord,” he doubted them. Earlier, Mary Magdalene had announced, “I have seen the Lord,” sharing what He said to her (John 20:18). In John 21:7, the beloved disciple exclaimed to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Similarly, the Samaritan woman declared, “Come and see…” (John 4:29).
True encounters with the risen Christ naturally inspire others, often with few words. The second appearance of Jesus addressed Thomas’ doubt. In Previous encounters, the disciples believed through SIGHT alone, while Mary recognised Jesus by His VOICE (John 20:16). Jesus Himself had said in John 10 that His followers would recognise and follow Him. Thomas introduced a new dimension—TOUCH—when he sought physical proof of Jesus’ wounds. Yet, the loving Saviour met Thomas’ need, leading him to exclaim, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus then imparted an eternal truth: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” This timeless teaching affirms that faith is foundational for salvation and daily living (Romans 1:17). Faith goes beyond what we see or touch; it anchors us in God’s eternal truth.
In each of these encounters, Jesus met an immediate need while establishing an eternal truth.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Let’s reflect on two key areas:
Some of us struggle with giving, doubting we can manage what remains after being faithful to God. Yet, withholding from Him robs us of His blessings.
Others avoid full-time Christian ministry out of fear of poverty and deprivation, but such beliefs are misconceptions.
God’s faithfulness ensures we lack nothing when we trust and obey Him.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your faithfulness over the years. Help me remain steadfast in my calling and faithful to Your cause. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: THIRD TIME
The phrase "third time" in John 21:14 comes from the Greek word triton (τρίτον), which is the ordinal form of the number three. In biblical numerology, the number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection. Jesus’ threefold post-resurrection appearances to the disciples underscore the certainty and completeness of His resurrection.
By appearing multiple times, Jesus affirms His bodily resurrection, ensuring no room for doubt among His disciples. The sequence of appearances highlights Jesus' intentional effort to establish His presence, build their faith, and prepare them for their mission. Repetition underscores the fulfilment of Jesus’ promises, reflecting God’s faithfulness.
Reflection:
The "third time" reveals Jesus’ commitment to ensuring our faith is grounded in truth. How often do we overlook God’s repeated efforts to affirm His presence and promises in our lives?
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