The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a pivotal event in Christianity. The Bible states that Jesus stayed on earth for a while after His resurrection before ascending to heaven. Christians believe that this resurrection is proof of His divinity[1] and offers hope of eternal life.
Understanding Jesus’ actions, appearances, and the significance of the 40 days post-resurrection is crucial to the Christian faith. This reaffirms for believers that Jesus conquered death.
Key Takeaways
- Jesus’ 40-day stay on Earth after His resurrection was a time of preparation and reinforcement of faith, where He taught His disciples about the kingdom of God, provided proof of His resurrection, and prepared them for their future missions.
- During these 40 days, Jesus appeared to His disciples and others, taught about the kingdom of God, commissioned His disciples, performed miracles, and reassured them of eternal life, thereby affirming His resurrection and divinity.
- This period after Jesus’ resurrection reinforces His status as the Son of God and Savior, strengthening the Christian belief in His divinity and the promise of eternal life, offering hope and solace to believers.
Contents
How Long Did Jesus Stay On Earth After His Resurrection?
According to the Bible, Jesus stayed on Earth for 40 days after His resurrection. In this period, He appeared several times to His disciples and others. He gave them undeniable proof of His resurrection, which Luke documented in Acts 1:3.
In addition to proving His resurrection, Jesus used this time to teach about the kingdom of God and to fulfill Old Testament prophecies.
What Did Jesus Do For 40 Days After His Resurrection?
- Appear To His Disciples
After His resurrection, Jesus appeared multiple times to His disciples and once to over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:6). These appearances serve as evidence of Jesus’ resurrection and prepare these witnesses for their great commission.
- Teach About The Kingdom Of God
During His 40 days on Earth, Jesus educated His disciples on the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3).
- Prepare His Disciples For Their Future Mission
Jesus readied His disciples to spread the gospel worldwide. As stated in Acts 1:8, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
- Commission His Disciples
Before His ascension, Jesus shared the Great Commission with His disciples. As stated in Matthew 28:18–20, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. So, make disciples of all nations, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and teach them to obey my commands. I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
- Continue To Perform Miracles
Jesus performed miracles during His 40-day stay on Earth. For instance, He made a miraculous catch of fish when He appeared to His disciples at the Sea of Galilee (John 21:1–14).
- Reassure His Disciples
Jesus confirmed His resurrection for His disciples and assured them of eternal life through faith in Him. As stated in John 20:31, “These are written so that you may believe Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing, have life in His name.”
- Ascend Into Heaven
His disciples witnessed Jesus’ ascension to heaven. As stated in Luke 24:51, “While blessing them, He ascended to heaven.” Jesus’ ascension proves His divinity and origin from God.
Did Jesus Appear To Anyone After His Resurrection?
After His resurrection, Jesus appeared multiple times to His followers, as recorded in the Bible. He first appeared to Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9), then to two disciples on the road to Emmaus, and later to the gathered disciples (Luke 24:13–49).
He also appeared to His disciples at the Sea of Galilee, performing a miraculous catch of fish (John 21:1–14), and to over 500 people and His brother James (1 Corinthians 15:6–7).
Lastly, He appeared to His disciples on the Mount of Olives, imparting the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16–20). These appearances affirmed Jesus’ victory over death and His divinity and strengthened the faith of witnesses, offering hope to future believers.
What Is The Significance Of The 40 Days?
The significance of the 40 days post-resurrection lies in its biblical association with preparation and repentance. This period, crucial in Christianity, represents a time for spiritual growth and strengthening of faith amid challenges.
Notable 40-day events in the Bible include the Great Flood (Genesis 7:4), Moses receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28), and Jesus’ wilderness fasting before His ministry (Matthew 4:1–11).
In these 40 days, Jesus prepared His disciples for their gospel-spreading mission and kingdom of God teachings, testing and training them for a life without His physical presence.
Jesus’ appearances during this time, to His disciples and over 500 people, affirmed His resurrection, bolstered His followers’ faith, and offered hope to future believers.
The 40 days post-resurrection illustrate God’s redemption and salvation plan, affirming the belief in Jesus as the Son of God and Savior sent to redeem mankind from sin.
Summary
The 40 days post-resurrection, significant in Christianity, symbolize preparation, testing, and Jesus’ triumph over death.
During this period, Jesus readied His disciples for their gospel-spreading mission and affirmed His resurrection by appearing to over 500 people, strengthening His followers’ faith and fulfilling biblical prophecies.
Christians find solace in Jesus’ victory over death, promising eternal life through faith in Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Was Jesus On Earth?
According to the Bible, Jesus lived on Earth for about thirty-three years. This includes the time from His birth until His ascension into heaven. His public ministry began when He was about 30 years old and lasted approximately three years. After His resurrection, Jesus remained on Earth for a further 40 days before He ascended into heaven.
Who Was The First Person To See Jesus After His Resurrection?
The first person to see Jesus after His resurrection was Mary Magdalene. This is recorded in the Gospel of John. However, among the apostles, Peter was the first to see the risen Christ. This was a private appearance to reassure him, as he had denied his Lord a few days earlier.
Did Jesus Perform Any Miracles After His Resurrection?
Yes, Jesus performed miracles after His resurrection. Here are some examples:
- The Miraculous Catch of Fish: After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and gave them the miraculous power to catch a large amount of fish. This miracle is also known as the catch of 153 fish.
- Healing and Preaching: Jesus was seen in His restored body by thousands; He healed many; He continued to preach; He continued to love.
These miracles are documented in the New Testament passages in six books: all four gospels, the Book of Acts and 1st Corinthians. These were the last of the miracles that Jesus performed on Earth when he was physically present.