In the latter half of Acts 1, Jesus’ eleven disciples were at a turning point in their ministry. Jesus had ascended to heaven, and tHis followers recognized the gap Judas left. They came together, united in mission and motive as they waited for the promised Holy Spirit.

This story is found in the first chapter of the book of Acts. Although Jesus’ time on earth was coming to an end, He promised to leave His followers with a special Helper and Guide. God fulfilled His promise to remain with us, and through the gift of the Holy Spirit, He also provided the power to accomplish the mission of His Church.

This passage from Matthew 28 is referred to as the “Great Commission.” We see that the resurrected Jesus purposely brought his disciples to receive this invitation and his instruction they would need to fulfill the Father’s will.

Although Peter had seen Jesus, perhaps he had not come to terms with his denial of Him. Jesus was able to demonstrate mercy and forgiveness to Peter. He would ask the question of him, “Do you love me?”

The disciples were gathered a week after discovering the tomb was empty, and word of Jesus’ resurrection was beginning to spread. One disciple, Thomas, doubted, which many still today struggle with. However, Thomas had an encounter with Jesus that he would not forget…

In the final chapter of Luke’s Gospel account, we receive insight into how Christ made His resurrection power known. His newly resurrected body teaches us how we can share and receive His gospel truths in the present day.