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After Jesus’s resurrection, according to accounts in the New Testament, he spent 40 days on Earth before ascending to heaven. Here’s what happened during this period:
- Post-Resurrection Appearances: Jesus appeared to various individuals and groups during the 40 days after his resurrection. These appearances served to confirm his resurrection and strengthen the faith of his followers. Some notable appearances include:
- Encounter with Mary Magdalene at the tomb.
- Appearance to two disciples on the road to Emmaus, where they initially did not recognize him but later realized his identity.
- Encounters with his disciples, both individually and in group settings.
- Teaching and Instruction: During his post-resurrection appearances, Jesus continued to teach and provide guidance to his disciples. He emphasized the fulfillment of prophecies regarding the Messiah, the importance of repentance and forgiveness, and the mission to spread the gospel.
- The Great Commission: One significant event during this period was Jesus’s commissioning of his disciples to spread the gospel and make disciples of all nations. This command, known as the Great Commission, is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 28:18-20) and serves as a foundational mandate for Christian evangelism and missionary work.
- The Ascension: At the end of the 40 days, Jesus ascended to heaven in the presence of his disciples. This event, known as the Ascension, is described in the book of Acts (Acts 1:9-11). Jesus’s ascension marked the conclusion of his earthly ministry and his return to the presence of God the Father.
- Pentecost: Ten days after Jesus’s ascension, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in Jerusalem, empowering them for ministry and enabling them to spread the message of Jesus Christ with boldness. This event, known as Pentecost, is considered the birth of the Christian church and is celebrated by Christians worldwide.
Overall, the period between Jesus’s resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost represents a critical time of transition and preparation for the early Christian community. It marks the beginning of their mission to proclaim the gospel and establish the church, guided by the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.