Doubts & Questions Do you, in some quiet dark moments, ever wonder if this thing called Christianity is real?

Have you ever prayed for something, hoped for something, needed something so much only to find the worst thing that could happen actually did?

Have you ever been confused, trying to figure out the best course of action? Have you prayed for help, claimed the promises and found God distant and silent?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone – we all have those moments.

For the disciples of the weekend of His arrest and death was one of those times. Their worst nightmare had come true. Their hopes were dashed. They were wondering how they could have been so wrong about Jesus being the Messiah.

The Story of Cleopas It was Sunday afternoon. Cleopas and an un-named companion, perhaps his wife, were walking home from trying to make sense of everything going on. Let’s read their story – it’s found in beginning with verse 13.

That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of , seven miles from Jerusalem. As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. But God kept them from recognizing him.

This is the only time we hear about these two. They were not a part of the inner circle but seemed to enjoy close fellowship with them. Jesus chose them to receive information beneficial to all the believers over one of the twelve. God can and will communicate with any of us – it doesn’t matter how unimportant we may feel.

He asked them, “What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?”

They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, “You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days.”

“What things?” Jesus asked.

“The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth,” they said. “He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.

“Then some women from our group of his followers were at his tomb early this morning, and they came back with an amazing report. They said his body was missing, and they had seen who told them Jesus is alive! Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.”

Did you catch their pain and confusion?

Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared!

They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, who said, “The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter.”

Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. (Luke 24:13-36, NLT)

Wouldn’t you have loved to be a part of this conversation? It would have been an incredible experience to hear from Jesus Himself how the Scriptures, our Old Testament, pointed to Him and predicted His life and ministry.

For these two, it must have been like a breath of fresh air. I can imagine there were a number of “A ha” moments that afternoon. The conviction that Jesus really was the Messiah must have grown throughout

the conversation as point after point was made. Later they said “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?”

I have often thought it was a shame this discussion was not written down – This would have been great information to have. Wouldn’t you love to read a transcript of that conversation?

But, as I have been thinking about this story during the past few weeks, a realization has dawned on me – I think much of it is written down!

It’s inconceivable that the conversation was not shared with the others. I’m sure the points were listened to and discussed at great length and became engrained in the Apostle’s thinking. And we see evidence of this in the frequent references to Old Testament prophecies as we read the – in places like Matthew 1 where it says:

All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet: “Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” (Matthew 1:22-23, NLT – quoting Isaiah 7:14)

So what can we piece together? What might that conversation have sounded like?

Survey of O.T. References to Jesus The story tells us that “Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” This was a conversation that probably took a couple of hours. We don’t have that much time, but we will do a quick survey of a few specifics Jesus likely touched on.

 From Numbers 21:4-9 – Jesus used the snake that was lifted up on a bronze pole, the one people who had been bitten by a snake were to look at to find healing, as a symbol of Himself (John 3:14-15)

 Psalm 22:18 – They divided my garments among them and for my clothing they cast lots. (Matthew 27:35, Luke 23:34, & John 19:23-24)  From Psalm 41:9 – prophesying about Judas: The one who eats my food has turned against me. (John 13:18-30)  From Psalm 78:2 – The Messiah’s use of parables is highlighted: I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world. (Matthew 13:34-35)

 Isaiah 42:1-4 describes Jesus’ work as the Messiah: Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. And his name will be the hope of all the world. (Matthew 12:15-21)

 All of Isaiah 53 describes Jesus’ mission and His suffering: “… He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.

 Hosea 11:1 tells about the Messiah and Egypt, where Jesus spent some time as a baby: I called my Son out of Egypt. (Matthew 2:14-15)  Zechariah 9:9 tells about the Messiah coming to Jerusalem on a donkey: Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey – riding on a donkey’s colt.’ (Matthew 21:4-5 & John 12:12-16) And there are several others – many of them are listed in the copy of my sermon and notes which will be posted on line with a link to it in my next blog and in the Church’s weekly e-mail newsletter.

The point is this: The Old Testament paints a picture of the Messiah – through symbols and prophecies – that is fulfilled completely in Jesus.

Why is this Important to Us? You did notice as we read the story that Jesus didn’t reveal Himself to them right away, right? Why do you think that was?

I think it was because He wanted their faith in Him to be deeper than just an experience. Experience is critical, but the memory of our experiences tend to dull and fade over time. And, one bad experience can often ruin the memory of the good ones.

He wanted their faith to be based on evidence – evidence they could go back to and reexamine. Evidence that would give direction and serve as a foundation to their experience.

By comparing Jesus’ life to the prophecies of the Messiah they would have solid evidence of who He was. Together with their experience with Jesus, it would provide a compelling story keeping them moving the right direction as well as drawing others to Him.

This is important for us too. In those dark moments

 When you are tempted to doubt the reality of your Christian experience

 When God has said no to something you really thought you needed  When you have begged for God’s guidance and He seems distant and silent  When your experience and your senses are suggesting that Jesus is somehow inadequate and cannot really deal with your life,

You can find hope in Jesus’ story. Knowing how Jesus’ life lined up with prophecies written hundreds of years before He showed up, can give you the courage you need to keep trusting and following Him. It can give us confidence that Jesus is who He said He was. In following Him we are not falling for a well- designed hoax, but we are following the One who is “… the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NLT).

This also helps us understand that the Scriptures really are all about Jesus! It reminds us that our spirituality – our lives – must also be all about Jesus. If it is about anything else, it is a counterfeit and will only lead us and those we influence away from Him. And all paths away from Jesus lead to .

It is not really about which day of the week we worship on. It is not about what happens to us after we die. It is not about the judgement, the Sanctuary, end-time events, or tithing.

All these things can give us a beautiful picture of who Jesus is and what He does. However, if Jesus is not central to all our beliefs they will only lead us down the path of legalism, not to a better version of Christianity. They will become one of those paths leading us away from Jesus.

The book of Hebrews explains Jesus’ ministry in terms of the Sanctuary services of the Old Testament. It contains several beautiful passages about Jesus. This one from chapter four is especially powerful:

So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (Hebrews 4:14-16, NLT)

If you are in need of grace and mercy, and who doesn’t? Don’t put off coming to the One who understands what it is like to live and die here in this world. Put your trust in the One who loves you more than He loved His own life and comfort – the One who has the wisdom to know what you need and the power to make it happen! The One who is the real Messiah of the world said:

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens …

 All you who have doubts and questions.  All you who don’t know how to keep moving on.

 All you who are sick.  All you who are sick and tired of the direction this world is headed.  All you who are suffering rejection, loneliness, grief, and despair.

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest!” (Matthew 11:28, NLT) ______

Other Sermons in this Series by Pastor T: Click on the title to view or download

 A Resolution Worth Re-Making (Intro - Feb. 21, 2015)  Where did You Come From? (Week 1 – Feb. 28, 2015)  How Fast are You? (Week 2 – Mar. 7, 2015)  My Son! (Week 4 – Mar. 21, 2015)  Forgiven! (Week 6 – April 4, 2015)  Why Not Judge? (Week 8 – April 18, 2015)  Why Worry? (Week 9, April 25, 2015)  Come Unto Me! (Week 10, May 2, 2015)  You Feed Them! (Week 13, May 23, 2015)  Crumbs for the Dogs (Week 15, June 6, 2015)  The Rock (Week 16, June 13, 2015)  Wake Up! (Week 21, July 18, 2015)  Impossible? (Week 22, July 25, 2015)  & (Week 25, August 15, 2015)  The Widow’s Mite (Week 26, August 22, 2015)  Coming Again! (Week 27, August 29, 2015)  Empowered to Serve (Week 28, September 5, 2015)  Judas (Week 30, September 19, 2015)  It Is Finished! (Week 31, September 26, 2015)

Scripture References

Genesis 3:14-21 (NLT): Then the LORD God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, you are cursed more than all animals, domestic and wild. You will crawl on your belly, groveling in the dust as long as you live. 15 And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.”

16 Then he said to the woman, “I will sharpen the pain of your pregnancy, and in pain you will give birth. And you will desire to control your husband, but he will rule over you.”

17 And to the man he said, “Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat, the ground is cursed because of you. All your life you will struggle to scratch a living from it. 18 It will grow thorns and thistles for you, though you will eat of its grains. 19 By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return.”

20 Then the man – Adam – named his wife Eve, because she would be the mother of all who live. 21 And the LORD God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife. (Genesis 3:14-21, NLT)

Psalm 22 (NLT): My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help? 2 Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night I lift my voice, but I find no relief.

3 Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. 4 Our ancestors trusted in you, and you rescued them. 5 They cried out to you and were saved. They trusted in you and were never disgraced.

6 But I am a worm and not a man. I am scorned and despised by all! 7 Everyone who sees me mocks me. They sneer and shake their heads, saying, 8 “Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!”

9 Yet you brought me safely from my mother’s womb and led me to trust you at my mother’s breast. 10 I was thrust into your arms at my birth. You have been my God from the moment I was born.

11 Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me. 12 My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in! 13 Like lions they open their jaws against me, roaring and tearing into their prey. 14 My life is poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me. 15 My strength

has dried up like sunbaked clay. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead. 16 My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. 17 I can count all my bones. My enemies stare at me and gloat. 18 They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing.

19 O LORD, do not stay far away! You are my strength; come quickly to my aid! 20 Save me from the sword; spare my precious life from these dogs. 21 Snatch me from the lion’s jaws and from the horns of these wild oxen.

22 I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among your assembled people. 23 Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! 24 For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help.

25 I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. 26 The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. 27 The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. All the families of the nations will bow down before him. 28 For royal power belongs to the LORD. He rules all the nations.

29 Let the rich of the earth feast and worship. Bow before him, all who are mortal, all whose lives will end as dust. 30 Our children will also serve him. Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord. 31 His righteous acts will be told to those not yet born. They will hear about everything he has done. (Psalm 22, NLT)

Isaiah 53:1-12 (NLT): Who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm? 2 My servant grew up in the LORD’s presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. 3 He was despised and rejected – a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care.

4 Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! 5 But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. 6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all.

7 He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth. 8 Unjustly

condemned, he was led away. No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream. But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people. 9 He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone. But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave.

10 But it was the LORD’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants. He will enjoy a long life, and the LORD’s good plan will prosper in his hands. 11 When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. 12 I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels. (Isaiah 53:1-12, NLT)

Matthew 1:22-23 (NLT): All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet: 23 “Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” (Matthew 1:22-23, NLT – quoting Isaiah 7:14)

Matthew 2:3-6 (NLT): King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. 4 He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?”

5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: 6 ‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’” (Matthew 2:3-6, NLT – quoting Micah 5:2)

Matthew 2:14-15 (NLT): That night Joseph left for Egypt with the child and Mary, his mother, 15 and they stayed there until Herod’s death. This fulfilled what the Lord had spoken through the prophet: “I called my Son out of Egypt.” (Matthew 2:14-15, NLT – quoting Hosea 11:1)

Matthew 2:17-18 (NLT): Herod’s brutal action fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet Jeremiah: 18 “A cry was heard in Ramah – weeping and great mourning. Rachel weeps for her children, refusing to be comforted, for they are dead.” (Matthew 2:17-18, NLT – quoting Jeremiah 31:15)

Matthew 3:3 (NLT): The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said, “He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the LORD’s coming! Clear the road for him!’” (Matthew 3:3, NLT – quoting Isaiah 40:3-5; See also Luke 3:4-6 & John 1:23)

Matthew 4:13-16 (NLT): He went first to Nazareth, then left there and moved to Capernaum, beside the Sea of Galilee, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. 14 This fulfilled what God said through the

prophet Isaiah: 15 “In the land of Zebulun and of Naphtali, beside the sea, beyond the Jordan River, in Galilee where so many Gentiles live, 16 the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light. And for those who lived in the land where death casts its shadow, a light has shined.” (Matthew 4:13-16, NLT – quoting Isaiah 9:1-2)

Matthew 8:16-17 (NLT): That evening many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed all the sick. 17 This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, “He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases.” (Matthew 8:16-17, NLT – quoting Isaiah 53:4)

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT): Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NLT)

Matthew 12:15-21 (NLT): But Jesus knew what they were planning. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them, 16 but he warned them not to reveal who he was. 17 This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah concerning him: 18 “Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. 20 He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. 21 And his name will be the hope of all the world.” (Matthew 12:15-21, NLT – quoting Isaiah 42:1-4)

Matthew 13:11-17 (NLT): He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not. 12 To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them. 13 That is why I use these parables,

For they look, but they don’t really see. They hear, but they don’t really listen or understand.

14 This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says, ‘When you hear what I say, you will not understand. When you see what I do, you will not comprehend. 15 For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes – so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.’

16 “But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. 17 I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it. (Matthew 13:11-17, NLT – quoting Isaiah 6:9-10; see also Mark 4:11-12, Luke 8:9-10, & John 12:37-43)

Matthew 13:34-35 (NLT): Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. 35 This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: “I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world.” (Matthew 13:34-35, NLT – quoting Psalm 78:2)

Matthew 15:7-9 (NLT): You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote, 8 ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9 Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’” (Matthew 15:7-9, NLT – quoting Isaiah 29:13; see also Mark 7:6-8)

Matthew 21:4-5 (NLT): This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said, 5 “Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey – riding on a donkey’s colt.’” (Matthew 21:4-5 – quoting Zechariah 9:9; see also John 12:12-16)

Matthew 26:31-32 (NLT): On the way, Jesus told them, “Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say, ‘God will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’

32 But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.” (Matthew 26:31-32 – quoting Zechariah 13:7; see also Mark 14:27-28)

Matthew 27:6-10 (NLT): The leading priests picked up the coins. “It wouldn’t be right to put this money in the Temple treasury,” they said, “since it was payment for murder.” 7 After some discussion they finally decided to buy the potter’s field, and they made it into a cemetery for foreigners. 8 That is why the field is still called the Field of Blood. 9 This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah that says, “They took the thirty pieces of silver – the price at which he was valued by the people of Israel, 10 and purchased the potter’s field, as the LORD directed.” (Matthew 27:6-10 – quoting Jeremiah 32:6-9)

Matthew 27:35 (NKJV): Then they crucified Him, and divided His garments, casting lots, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet: “They divided My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.” (Matthew 27:35 – quoting Psalm 22:18; see also Luke 23:34 & John 19:23-24)

Matthew 27:46 (NLT): At about three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, [a] lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” (Matthew 27:46 – quoting Psalm 22:1; see also Mark 15:33-34)

Mark 1:1-4 (NLT): This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. It began 2 just as the prophet Isaiah had written: “Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way. 3 He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the LORD’s coming! Clear the road for him!’”

4 This messenger was . He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. (Mark 1:1-4 – quoting Malachi 3:1 & Isaiah 40:3; see also Matthew 11:10)

Mark 16:12-13 (NLT): Afterward he appeared in a different form to two of his followers who were walking from Jerusalem into the country. 13 They rushed back to tell the others, but no one believed them. (Mark 16:12-13, NLT)

Luke 23:46 (NLT): Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46 – quoting Psalm 31:5)

Luke 24:13-36 (NLT): That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. 16 But God kept them from recognizing him.

17 He asked them, “What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?”

They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 18 Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, “You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days.”

19 “What things?” Jesus asked.

“The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth,” they said. “He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. 20 But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. 21 We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago.

22 “Then some women from our group of his followers were at his tomb early this morning, and they came back with an amazing report. 23 They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive! 24 Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.”

25 Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. 26 Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” 27 Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

28 By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, 29 but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. 30 As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. 31 Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared!

32 They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” 33 And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. There they found the eleven disciples and the others who had gathered with them, 34 who said, “The Lord has really risen! He appeared to Peter.”

35 Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. 36 And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. (Luke 24:13-36, NLT)

John 2:16-17 (NLT): Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!”

17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.” (John 2:16-17 – quoting from Psalm 69:9)

John 3:14-15 (NLT): And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. (John 3:14-15 – referring back to Numbers 21:4-9)

John 13:18-30 (NLT): “I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. But this fulfills the Scripture that says, ‘The one who eats my food has turned against me.’ 19 I tell you this beforehand, so that when it happens you will believe that I AM the Messiah. 20 I tell you the truth,

anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.”

21 Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”

22 The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean. 23 The Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table. 24 Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?” 25 So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”

26 Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot. 27 When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.” 28 None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant. 29 Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor. 30 So Judas left at once, going out into the night. (John 13:18-30 – quoting Psalm 41:9)

John 15:23-25 (NLT): “Anyone who hates me also hates my Father. 24 If I hadn’t done such miraculous signs among them that no one else could do, they would not be guilty. But as it is, they have seen everything I did, yet they still hate me and my Father. 25 This fulfills what is written in their Scriptures: ‘They hated me without cause.’” (John 15:23-25 – quoting Psalms 35:19 & 69:4)

John 19:28-30 (NLT): Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” 29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. 30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and released his spirit. (John 19:28-30 – see Psalms 22:15 & 69:21)

John 19:34-37 (NLT): One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out. 35 (This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account. He speaks the truth so that you also may continue to believe.) 36 These things happened in fulfillment of the Scriptures that say, “Not one of his bones will be broken,” 37 and “They will look on the one they pierced.” (John 19:34-37 – see Exodus 12:46, Numbers 9:12, Psalms 34:20, Zechariah 12:10)

Hebrews 4:14-16 (NLT): So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (Hebrews 4:14-16, NLT)

E.G. White References Desire of Ages, pages 795-801: Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus, a little town eight miles from Jerusalem. These disciples had had no prominent place in 's work, but they were earnest believers in Him. They had come to the city to keep the Passover, and were greatly perplexed by the events that had recently taken place. They had heard the news of the morning in regard to the removal of Christ's body from the tomb, and also the report of the women who had seen the angels and had met Jesus. They were now returning to their homes to meditate and pray. Sadly they pursued their evening walk, talking over the scenes of the trial and the crucifixion. Never before had they been so utterly disheartened. Hopeless and faithless, they were walking in the shadow of the cross.

They had not advanced far on their journey when they were joined by a stranger, but they were so absorbed in their gloom and disappointment that they did not observe him closely. They continued their conversation, expressing the thoughts of their hearts. They were reasoning in regard to the lessons that Christ had given, which they seemed unable to comprehend. As they talked of the events that had taken place, Jesus longed to comfort them. He had seen their grief; He understood the conflicting, perplexing ideas that brought to their minds the thought, (Page 796) Can this Man, who suffered Himself to be so humiliated, be the Christ? Their grief could not be restrained, and they wept. Jesus knew that their hearts were bound up with Him in love, and He longed to wipe away their tears, and fill them with joy and gladness. But He must first give them lessons they would never forget.

"He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, Art Thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?" They told Him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, "which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people;" but "the chief priests and our rulers," they said, "delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him." With hearts sore with disappointment, and with quivering lips, they added, "We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done."

Strange that the disciples did not remember Christ's words, and realize that He had foretold the events which had come to pass! They did not realize that the last part of His disclosure would be just as verily fulfilled as the first part, that the third day He would rise again. This was the part they should have remembered. The priests and rulers did not forget this. On the day "that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,

saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while He was yet alive, After three days I will rise again." Matt. 27:62, 63. But the disciples did not remember these words.

"Then He said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?" The disciples wondered who this stranger could be, that He should penetrate to their very souls, and speak with such earnestness, tenderness, and sympathy, and with such hopefulness. For the first time since Christ's betrayal, they began to feel hopeful. Often they looked earnestly at their companion, and thought that His words were just the words that Christ would have spoken. They were filled with amazement, and their hearts began to throb with joyful expectation.

Beginning at Moses, the very Alpha of history, Christ expounded in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Had He (Page 799) first made Himself known to them, their hearts would have been satisfied. In the fullness of their joy they would have hungered for nothing more. But it was necessary for them to understand the witness borne to Him by the types and prophecies of the Old Testament. Upon these their faith must be established. Christ performed no miracle to convince them, but it was His first work to explain the Scriptures. They had looked upon His death as the destruction of all their hopes. Now He showed from the prophets that this was the very strongest evidence for their faith.

In teaching these disciples, Jesus showed the importance of the Old Testament as a witness to His mission. Many professed Christians now discard the Old Testament, claiming that it is no longer of any use. But such is not Christ's teaching. So highly did He value it that at one time He said, "If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." Luke 16:31.

It is the voice of Christ that speaks through patriarchs and prophets, from the days of Adam even to the closing scenes of time. The Saviour is revealed in the Old Testament as clearly as in the New. It is the light from the prophetic past that brings out the life of Christ and the teachings of the with clearness and beauty. The miracles of Christ are a proof of His divinity; but a stronger proof that He is the world's Redeemer is found in comparing the prophecies of the Old Testament with the history of the New.

Reasoning from prophecy, Christ gave His disciples a correct idea of what He was to be in humanity. Their expectation of a Messiah who was to take His throne and kingly power in accordance with the desires of men had been misleading. It would interfere with a correct apprehension of His descent from the highest to the lowest position that could be occupied. Christ desired that the ideas of His disciples might be pure and true in every specification. They

must understand as far as possible in regard to the cup of suffering that had been apportioned to Him. He showed them that the awful conflict which they could not yet comprehend was the fulfillment of the covenant made before the foundation of the world was laid. Christ must die, as every transgressor of the law must die if he continues in sin. All this was to be, but it was not to end in defeat, but in glorious, eternal victory. Jesus told them that every effort must be made to save the world from sin. His followers must live as He lived, and work as He worked, with intense, persevering effort. (Page 800)

Thus Christ discoursed to His disciples, opening their minds that they might understand the Scriptures. The disciples were weary, but the conversation did not flag. Words of life and assurance fell from the Saviour's lips. But still their eyes were holden. As He told them of the overthrow of Jerusalem, they looked upon the doomed city with weeping. But little did they yet suspect who their traveling companion was. They did not think that the subject of their conversation was walking by their side; for Christ referred to Himself as though He were another person. They thought that He was one of those who had been in attendance at the great feast, and who was now returning to his home. He walked as carefully as they over the rough stones, now and then halting with them for a little rest. Thus they proceeded along the mountainous road, while the One who was soon to take His position at God's right hand, and who could say, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth," walked beside them. Matt. 28:18.

During the journey the sun had gone down, and before the travelers reached their place of rest, the laborers in the fields had left their work. As the disciples were about to enter their home, the stranger appeared as though He would continue His journey. But the disciples felt drawn to Him. Their souls hungered to hear more from Him. "Abide with us," they said. He did not seem to accept the invitation, but they pressed it upon Him, urging, "It is toward evening, and the day is far spent." Christ yielded to this entreaty and "went in to tarry with them."

Had the disciples failed to press their invitation, they would not have known that their traveling companion was the risen Lord. Christ never forces His company upon anyone. He interests Himself in those who need Him. Gladly will He enter the humblest home, and cheer the lowliest heart. But if men are too indifferent to think of the heavenly Guest, or ask Him to abide with them, He passes on. Thus many meet with great loss. They do not know Christ any more than did the disciples as He walked with them by the way.

The simple evening meal of bread is soon prepared. It is placed before the guest, who has taken His seat at the head of the table. Now He puts forth His hands to bless the food. The disciples start back in astonishment. Their companion spreads forth His hands in exactly the same way as their Master used to do. They look again, and lo, they see in His hands the print of nails. Both

exclaim at once, It is the Lord Jesus! He has risen from the dead! (Page 801) They rise to cast themselves at His feet and worship Him, but He has vanished out of their sight. They look at the place which had been occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, and say to each other, "Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?"

But with this great news to communicate they cannot sit and talk. Their weariness and hunger are gone. They leave their meal untasted, and full of joy immediately set out again on the same path by which they came, hurrying to tell the tidings to the disciples in the city. In some parts the road is not safe, but they climb over the steep places, slipping on the smooth rocks. They do not see, they do not know, that they have the protection of Him who has traveled the road with them. With their pilgrim staff in hand, they press on, desiring to go faster than they dare. They lose their track, but find it again. Sometimes running, sometimes stumbling, they press forward, their unseen Companion close beside them all the way.

The night is dark, but the Sun of Righteousness is shining upon them. Their hearts leap for joy. They seem to be in a new world. Christ is a living Saviour. They no longer mourn over Him as dead. Christ is risen--over and over again they repeat it. This is the message they are carrying to the sorrowing ones. They must tell them the wonderful story of the walk to Emmaus. They must tell who joined them by the way. They carry the greatest message ever given to the world, a message of glad tidings upon which the hopes of the human family for time and for eternity depend. (Desire of Ages, pages 795-801)