Podcasts about Cleopas

A Sunday sermon by Pastor Brett Deal. I boarded the little Cessna on the hot tarmac of the Yaoundé international airport. I had just received the grace of the customs and border patrol I surely didn't deserve. I'd been an illegal alien in Cameroon for several months, assuming—as most naïve teenagers are wont to do—the school would keep my papers in order. After a few hours, however, the man behind the desk forgave me. He wiped away my debt and stamped my passport, releasing me. He didn't even block me from renewing my visa to finish my junior year of high school. Remarkably, the plane waited for me. The other passengers waited patiently. The pilot watched the clock but refused to leave until the last possible minute. Once I was released, I joined them as the propellor kicked to life and the wheels began to roll. As everyone else, including the pilot, were more than ready to go, there was only one seat left: the co-pilot's chair. As the little plane took off, climbing into the sky, I gained a vantage point I'd never experienced before. I've flown in countless planes. I've even been in the cockpit of several planes over the years. But never had I faced the oncoming skies from the front row! The view before me wasn't a sideways glance oval. It was a panorama sweeping across my full field of vision! And that is where the trouble began. As we flew toward the clouds, the logical part of my brain said, “Nothing to worry about here. Clouds are just coalescing drops of water gliding around the atmosphere,” but my less logical side—the I've-watched-too-many-Wile-E-Coyote-cartoons side—was sounding off alarm bells! I asked the pilot through the headset if we should be concerned. He wasn't worried at all. He'd flown headlong into clouds before. I'll be honest. I heard him but I still struggled to really believe his testimony! I was like Cleopas on the road to Emmaus, having heard the witness of the women and the apostles, but still struggling to discern what it all meant. We've all been there. We'll all be there again. The question becomes: will we keep moving?

Link to the theme for the next 5 weeksLuke 24:13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him.17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 “What things?” he asked.“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”25 He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

The sermon reflects on the story of the road to Emmaus, emphasizing the transformative power of radical hospitality and the recognition of Jesus in unexpected moments. ​ It highlights how Cleopas and another traveler, despite their grief, invited a stranger (Jesus) into their home, embodying the ancient Jewish value of welcoming strangers. ​ Through the breaking of bread, their eyes were opened, shifting from fear to joy, symbolizing new creation and life through Christ. ​ The message challenges Christians to embrace empathy, generosity, and kindness, countering the self-centeredness of modern culture. ​ It calls for a renewed perspective, urging believers to see the world through Jesus' eyes, filled with grace and possibility, and to extend radical hospitality to others. ​ The sermon concludes with a prayer for spiritual awakening and the courage to follow Jesus into a life of hope and transformation.

This past Sunday at Myrtle House Community Church, Bill Chapman took us further along the road to Emmaus—following Jesus as He revealed how all of Scripture points to Him. Building on the last two weeks' teachings from Luke 24, we were invited to see the Bible not as a collection of disconnected stories, but as a divinely orchestrated, hyperlinked narrative with Jesus at its centre. Bill opened the morning with the striking image of a “Hyperlinked Bible”—a powerful visual of how every part of the Bible is interconnected. Each verse, each moment, each prophecy is tied together to magnify Jesus, revealing Him as Messiah, Saviour, and King. He referenced Tom Wright's “My Big Story Bible”, which beautifully simplifies these connections, helping even the youngest hearts see that the entire Bible is about one big story: God's rescue plan through Jesus. Luke 24:27 – The Emmaus Encounter “Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” This verse was at the heart of Bill's message: Jesus opened the Scriptures to show the disciples how every story pointed to Him. And He does the same for us today. A Journey Through Hyperlinked Scripture Bill reminded us that over 400 passages point directly to Jesus—some repeated, but at least 150 are unique. These are not random prophecies or coincidences. They are God's intentional hyperlinks, woven into the Bible to reveal a single, powerful truth: Jesus is the fulfilment of it all. Here are just a few examples he shared: Genesis 3:15 → 1 John 3:8 From the garden to the cross: Jesus came to destroy the devil's work. Genesis 12 → Galatians 3:8 The blessing promised to Abraham is fulfilled through Jesus for all nations. Leviticus 16:27 → Hebrews 13 The sacrificial system finds its completion in Jesus, once and for all. Numbers 21:4–9 → John 3:14–21 Just as the Israelites looked to the bronze snake to live, we look to Jesus and receive eternal life. Psalm 22 → John 19 & 2 Corinthians 5 Jesus' suffering on the cross was foretold in detail. He poured out His life for us. The Big Story: Heaven on Earth Bill also shared a video from The Bible Project that summed it all up: From beginning to end, the Bible tells the story of God's love and His mission to bring heaven to earth. The plan has always been restoration, and Jesus is the centrepiece of that plan. From Knowledge to Revelation It's not enough just to read the Bible. Like Cleopas and Mary on the road to Emmaus, we must let Jesus reveal Himself through Scripture. Bill challenged us: Are you just turning up to church? Or are you walking with the risen King, the one who conquered sin, death, and the devil? This isn't about information—it's about transformation. Make Your Choice “He came to make a way where there wasn't a way.” – Isaiah's Suffering Servant (Isaiah 42–55) Jesus' mission is everywhere in Scripture—and He is passionate about you. The question is: Will you choose to follow Him? Will you stay close, walk with Him, and allow Him to reveal Himself more and more? Cleopas and Mary did. Their hearts burned within them as Jesus spoke, and they couldn't wait to tell everyone. What about you? Final Encouragement Let's be people of the Word. Let's get excited about what God has done. Let's live with hearts on fire, walking with Jesus, understanding the hyperlinks in Scripture—and sharing the good news that every word leads to Him.

And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

The appearance of the resurrected Jesus on the Emmaus road to Cleopas and an unnamed disciple is one of Luke's most vivid and dramatic tellings. Three themes dominate today's text: (1) the irony that the empty tomb had not yet created excitement among Jesus' closest followers; in fact, the two travelers express deep disappointment in Jesus' death, which they view as a big setback. (2) Jesus – still unrecognizable to them – unpacks all that the Old Testament says about Him and God's plan being fulfilled in these Jerusalem events…meaning in God's economy, nothing is out of place at all. (3) Failure turns into fulfillment, tragedy into triumph when they finally recognize the risen Jesus in His breaking bread with them. The curve ball has not been thrown to humankind but to sin, death, and Satan. Cleopas and his companion would never be the same; Jesus is alive and present, salvation has been accomplished, and their hope renewed. In fact, they are so ecstatic that they go and tell the disciples in Jerusalem what had just happened.

The appearance of the resurrected Jesus on the Emmaus road to Cleopas and an unnamed disciple is one of Luke's most vivid and dramatic tellings. Three themes dominate today's text: (1) the irony that the empty tomb had not yet created excitement among Jesus' closest followers; in fact, the two travelers express deep disappointment in Jesus' death, which they view as a big setback. (2) Jesus – still unrecognizable to them – unpacks all that the Old Testament says about Him and God's plan being fulfilled in these Jerusalem events…meaning in God's economy, nothing is out of place at all. (3) Failure turns into fulfillment, tragedy into triumph when they finally recognize the risen Jesus in His breaking bread with them. The curve ball has not been thrown to humankind but to sin, death, and Satan. Cleopas and his companion would never be the same; Jesus is alive and present, salvation has been accomplished, and their hope renewed. In fact, they are so ecstatic that they go and tell the disciples in Jerusalem what had just happened.

On that first Resurrection Sunday, Cleopas and his companion's walk to Emmaus that afternoon proved to be monumental, not only for them, but for the Christian church. The stranger who accompanied them turned out to be Jesus, who pointed them to the OT scriptures which spoke of him.At the conclusion of their walk, Jesus showed them he himself had resurrected. Hurrying to Jerusalem with the good news of their encounter, the disciples had their resurrection joy strengthened by the news that the risen Lord had also appeared to Peter. And so for us today it is also the scriptures which prophesied and then testified to Jesus' death and resurrection that is our strength and help when we face sadness and fear. The risen Jesus is alive and always with us by his Spirit!

Luke 24:13-35 13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him. 17 He asked them, What are you discussing together as you walk along? They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days? 19 What things? he asked. About Jesus of Nazareth, they replied. He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didnt find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus. 25 He said to them, How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory? 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. 28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over. So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us? 33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon. 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

"Jesus asked them, 'What were you talking about as you walked along?' Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, 'Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?'" - Luke 24:13-35 Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

Sermon on Luke 24:13-35. This is the second sermon in our Easter sermon series called Living with Christ.After Jesus' resurrection, his disciples began to share about how God had conquered death. This truth is the foundation of our life with Christ, and led to the church being built. Many individuals were part of this work, and have helped members of the church live with Christ. We'll consider several people during the season of Easter, and what they teach us about living with Christ today.In this sermon, we explore how even as we journey with Christ, we need God to open our eyes so we can recognize him.

Have you ever felt like God wasn't meeting your expectations? You're not alone! The story of Cleopas and his friend on the road to Emmaus is a beautiful reminder of how Jesus meets us in our moments of doubt and disappointment.

[Luke 24:13-14] 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.God comes and _______________ us when we're headed the _______________ way.Don't walk away from the _____________________.[Luke 24:15-16] As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. [16] But God kept them from recognizing him.God is with us in the _______________.[Luke 24:17-21] 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.The resurrection doesn't let you go back to _______________.Sometimes God doesn't interrupt your _______________, He _______________ through it with you.[Luke 24:25-27] 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.Jesus always waits for an ____________________.[Luke 24:30-31] 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."Even if you do not _______________ Him, Jesus is already _______________ with you.

In Luke chapter 24 we are told the story of two disciples who are walking along toward Emmaus, Cleopas and his unnamed friend. As they travel on the first day of the week, they are joined by an unknown stranger who inquires of their conversation. Confusion and disbelief have clouded the disciples understanding of the […]

Alive: Cleopas - Beccy Oliver - 27.04.25

That same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. — Luke 24:13 A friend of mine went to his kids' sports event, and he found a seat next to a random stranger in the stands. They started a conversation and talked for most of the game. It was only after people pointed out to him later that the person he was talking to during the game was a retired famous athlete. He had had no idea. Cleopas and his fellow traveler had known Jesus and had interacted with him before his death and resurrection. They were closely connected with his ministry and even knew that the women had found his tomb empty earlier that day. But they didn't recognize Jesus as he walked and talked with them. I'm not sure why they didn't recognize him, but that also happened to others who knew him well. Only after he broke bread with them in their home did they realize that the person they had been talking with was Jesus. I wonder how often we find ourselves in Christ's presence and don't realize it. Though he isn't actually there in person, he can be present with us anywhere at any time because he promises, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). Maybe a conversation with a friend ushers us into Jesus' presence. Or maybe a worship experience helps us connect with Christ in a new way. Or maybe someone shines the presence of Jesus in a selfless act of service. Whatever the case, let's keep our eyes open for Jesus in our everyday living. No doubt he is walking with us each day. Lord, help us to know you are with us always, and to work with you in all we do and say. Amen.

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Luke 24:13-35 - That very day, the first day of the week, two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus Himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing Him. He asked them, “What are you discussing as you walk along?” They stopped, looking downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, said to Him in reply, “Are You the only Visitor to Jerusalem Who does not know of the things that have taken place there in these days?” And He replied to them, “What sort of things?” They said to Him, “The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene, Who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, how our chief priests and rulers both handed Him over to a sentence of death and crucified Him. But we were hoping that He would be the One to redeem Israel; and besides all this, it is now the third day since this took place. Some women from our group, however, have astounded us: they were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find His Body; they came back and reported that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who announced that He was alive. Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women had described, but Him they did not see.” And He said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are! How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into His glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He interpreted to them what referred to Him in all the Scriptures. As they approached the village to which they were going, He gave the impression that He was going on farther. But they urged him, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.” So He went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while He was with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, but He vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?” So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the Eleven and those with them who were saying, “The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!” Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread. Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2) Could the Pope's death mean the demise of liberal Catholicism https://europeanconservative.com/articles/commentary/pope-francis-death-jd-vance-new-catholicism/ 3, 4) Pope Francis' death obituary and legacy https://europeanconservative.com/articles/commentary/pope-francis-death-obituary-legacy/

That very day, the first day of the week,two of Jesus' disciples were goingto a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus,and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred.And it happened that while they were conversing and debating,Jesus himself drew near and walked with them,but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.He asked them,“What are you discussing as you walk along?”They stopped, looking downcast.One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply,“Are you the only visitor to Jerusalemwho does not know of the thingsthat have taken place there in these days?”And he replied to them, “What sort of things?”They said to him,“The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene,who was a prophet mighty in deed and wordbefore God and all the people,how our chief priests and rulers both handed him overto a sentence of death and crucified him.But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel;and besides all this,it is now the third day since this took place.Some women from our group, however, have astounded us:they were at the tomb early in the morningand did not find his Body;they came back and reportedthat they had indeed seen a vision of angelswho announced that he was alive.Then some of those with us went to the tomband found things just as the women had described,but him they did not see.”And he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are!How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke!Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these thingsand enter into his glory?”Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets,he interpreted to them what referred to himin all the Scriptures.As they approached the village to which they were going,he gave the impression that he was going on farther.But they urged him, “Stay with us,for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.”So he went in to stay with them.And it happened that, while he was with them at table,he took bread, said the blessing,broke it, and gave it to them.With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him,but he vanished from their sight.Then they said to each other,“Were not our hearts burning within uswhile he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?”So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalemwhere they found gathered togetherthe Eleven and those with them who were saying,“The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!”Then the two recounted what had taken place on the wayand how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

+ Holy Gospel according to St. Luke 24: 13 – 35 Now that very day two of the disciples were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred.And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.He asked them, "What are you discussing as you walk along?" They stopped, looking downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know of the things that have taken place there in these days?"And he replied to them, "What sort of things?"They said to him, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, how our chief priests and rulers both handed him over to a sentence of death and crucified him. But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel; and besides all this, it is now the third day since this took place. Some women from our group, however, have astounded us: they were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; they came back and reported that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who announced that he was alive. Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women had described, but him they did not see."And he said to them, "Oh, how foolish you are! How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them what referred to him in all the scriptures.As they approached the village to which they were going, he gave the impression that he was going on farther. But they urged him, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight.Then they said to each other, "Were not our hearts burning (within us) while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?" So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the eleven and those with them who were saying, "The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!"Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.The Gospel of the Lord

In this message, Pastor Noel unpacks the Easter story through the lens of the Old Testament book of Exodus, highlighting God's consistent act of remembering and rescuing his people. He focuses on the encounter Jesus had with Cleopas and Mary on the road to Emmaus, where Jesus himself explained how the scriptures pointed to his suffering and resurrection. Noel emphasizes that just as God remembered the Israelites in their suffering, Jesus's sacrifice and resurrection demonstrate that we too are seen, known, and offered a path to freedom from sin and despair. Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

Send us a text“Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing Him.  “And He said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?' They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered Him, ‘Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?' He asked them, ‘What things?' They replied, ‘The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed Him over to be condemned to death and crucified Him.  “But we had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find His body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that He was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Him.  “Then He said to them, ‘Oh, how foolish you are and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into His glory?' Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He interpreted to them the things about himself in all the Scriptures. “As they came near the village to which they were going, He walked ahead as if He were going on. But they urged Him strongly, saying, ‘Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.' So He went in to stay with them. When He was at the table with them, He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him, and He vanished from their sight. They said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while He was talking to us on the road, while He was opening the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:13-32).Written and sent out from the morning prayer time of Tommy Hays each day.God bless you and may you have a great day!—Tommy Hays | Messiah Ministrieshttp://messiah-ministries.org

Lk 24:13-35That very day, the first day of the week,two of Jesus' disciples were goingto a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus,and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred.And it happened that while they were conversing and debating,Jesus himself drew near and walked with them,but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.He asked them,“What are you discussing as you walk along?”They stopped, looking downcast.One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply,“Are you the only visitor to Jerusalemwho does not know of the thingsthat have taken place there in these days?”And he replied to them, “What sort of things?”They said to him,“The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene,who was a prophet mighty in deed and wordbefore God and all the people,how our chief priests and rulers both handed him overto a sentence of death and crucified him.But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel;and besides all this,it is now the third day since this took place.Some women from our group, however, have astounded us:they were at the tomb early in the morningand did not find his Body;they came back and reportedthat they had indeed seen a vision of angelswho announced that he was alive.Then some of those with us went to the tomband found things just as the women had described,but him they did not see.”And he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are!How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke!Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these thingsand enter into his glory?”Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets,he interpreted to them what referred to himin all the Scriptures.As they approached the village to which they were going,he gave the impression that he was going on farther.But they urged him, “Stay with us,for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.”So he went in to stay with them.And it happened that, while he was with them at table,he took bread, said the blessing,broke it, and gave it to them.With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him,but he vanished from their sight.Then they said to each other,“Were not our hearts burning within uswhile he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?”So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalemwhere they found gathered togetherthe Eleven and those with them who were saying,“The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!”Then the two recounted what had taken place on the wayand how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Good morning and Happy Easter to you all. The Easter story has been told for ages, but more importantly it has been and is still being lived into. Resurrection is more than something that has happened, it is something that is still happening. Join us as we talk about it. This is the audio podcast.

Experience the wonder of Easter Sunday with this Resurrection meditation. Today is the day we celebrate that Jesus is risen—but can you imagine what this moment was like for His first followers? Unbelievable. How could someone they saw die be alive? This meditation invites you to slow down and step into the wonder of that first Resurrection morning. The women discovered the empty tomb. The disciples struggled to believe. And two followers, walking the road to Emmaus, unknowingly encountered Jesus Himself. In this meditation, you’ll take the journey to Emmaus as one of those travelers. What would this seven-mile walk have been like? Grief. Confusion. Wrestling with the rumors of resurrection. Then, suddenly, a stranger begins to walk beside you. He explains the Scriptures, revealing what you couldn’t see before. And finally, in the breaking of bread, your eyes are opened—It was Jesus. He had been with you all along. This Easter, I pray you encounter the risen Christ in a fresh way—with wonder, hope, and joy. He is risen! He is risen indeed! Listen now and step into the story of Easter in a new way. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage from this meditation is: Luke 24:13-34, NLT 13 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Brother MurdochApril 20th, 2025 AM ServiceLuke 24:13-35The Resurrection Should Impact the HeartWe see Cleopas and the unnamed disciple in verse 18. Where were they going? Emmaus. Why? Home.1. Jesus said, "I will walk with you." Look at verse 15. Emotions are powerful; they can prevent us from seeing Jesus. Sadness (verse 17).2. Jesus said, "I will teach you." A lack of faith can keep us from seeing Jesus. How did Jesus teach? Throughout the Old Testament, it was a gradual process. Am I teachable? Make me teachable, Lord. What did Jesus teach? a. More about Himself b. In our suffering, how suffering precedes triumph. (1 Peter 1:10-11)3. Jesus said, "I will reveal Myself to you." Verse 30: The guest (Jesus) became the host. “They made Jesus the master of the table, but we should make Jesus the Master of our hearts.”

Mark's account is chapter 16, it is the earliest, and also the shortest.There are no angels, no soldiers, Jesus is not there. Women are the only witnesses, besides the unidentified young man.Verse 9 onwards, reads differently, it contradicts the fear and silence of the women it includes hints and pointers to events described in greater detail in the other gospels. It's almost as though it was added after those stories were written.The note says some early manuscripts do not have verses 9 to 20. What it doesn't say is that manuscripts from as late the 4th century do not include these verses, they appear in manuscripts from the 5th century. This is strong evidence this text is forged. But you won't learn this from the bible. You have to engage with scholars. Why would christians downplay the truth here?Matthew's account is in chapter 28Matthew introduces an angel to roll away the stone, and an earthquake for added drama.Matthew also adds the soldiers for drama and conspiracy. Including the suggestion that Jews circulated that the disciples stole the body. Have you tried looking for evidence that the Jews actually perpetrated this? Apologists love to reference it, but I've never actually seen evidence that the claim is true. Matthew is the only one to make this claim, he is also the only one to reference guards. This is evidence of inserted fictionalisation. Matthew's account ends with the great commission and the familiar expression of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, it's almost as if this was a well known phrase and the writer of Matthew incorporated it to help create familiarity.Luke's account is chapter 24No earthquake, the stone is already rolled away. The drama about the empty tomb has two unidentified persons and a longer conversation. The women are no longer silent and afraid. The alleged appearances of Jesus are more detailed. How did Mark know the details of the conversation on the road? who is Cleopas? Why is this the only place he is mentioned? Yet another clue to added detail as the story gains momentum! Why is it Mark had access to the words of Jesus rebuking the two men, but not the words said afterwards where he explained everything in the scriptures about himself?When Jesus appears to the disciples it is he who offers to them to look at his hands and feet. Thomas is not a feature of this dialogue. Like with the road to Emmaus, Jesus opens their minds so they can understand. We have no written record of what that understanding is. There is no actual book in the bible that details what it was that Jesus had them understand. This text does not exist, and given the context, it would be a very key piece of knowledge to put into writing, more important than the details of what food Jesus ate in front of the disciples that evening. This sort of thing is evidence that the gospels are not true accounts of history, they are fictionalised accounts of events that mostly did not happen.John's account is chapter 20John inserts himself as Jesus favourite disciple. And god forbid that the women are recorded as first seeing that Jesus has risen. It has to be the men! Mary does still get to have a conversation with the angels, two of them now. Then Jesus is in the garden.The meeting where Jesus appears gains added detail, he breaths on them to impart his holy spirit. Thomas was not there, so we have the convoluted conversation to bring Jesus back to them a week later. As time progresses, and each new gospel is written, the writing becomes more dramatic and more details are included. When you read the passages consecutively like this, it becomes absolutely clear that this is what is happening. The standard apologetics excuse that this is each writer having a different focus simply does not work. These accounts are not safe to believe.

13That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles[a]from Jerusalem,14and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened.15While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them.16But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.17And he said to them,What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?And they stood still, looking sad.18Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?19And he said to them,What things?And they said to him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,20and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him.21But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened.22Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning,23and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive.24Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.25And he said to them,O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!26Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?27And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. 28So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther,29but they urged him strongly, saying, Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent. So he went in to stay with them.30When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them.31And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight.32They said to each other, Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?33And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together,34saying, The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!35Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Luke 24:13-49 ESV That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them. Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

20 April 2025 | This Easter Sunday Pastor Evan preaches on how we can learn to recognize Christ in our lives through entering into fellowship with him. 13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles[a] from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” 25 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. 28 So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, 29 but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” 33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Jesus made a reconnaissance mission to earth. Jesus came to determine, as a man, what do the humans know. We hear this in his difficulty in communicating heavenly concepts and in his questions; i.e. "How is it that you do not understand?" The goal was to reveal the nature and name of Yehovah to the world; to reveal to mankind the path to salvation. "Keep my commandments." Jesus said. For more information get "The Questions of Jesus" by Don C Harris to hear revelations from the 151 questions asked by Messiah. Available on Amazon or other online retailers. It's worthwhile. Available in audio by request at ThinkRedInk.com .***117: The Women Visit Jesus' SepulcherMatthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18On the morning of the first day of the week Mary Magdalene with the other Mary went to the sepulcher where Jesus had been buried. There was a great earthquake; and an angel descended from Heaven, rolled back the stone from the door of the sepulcher, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning and his clothes were white as snow. The angel spoke to the women, saying: “Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here; for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee. There shall ye see him. Lo, I have told you.” The women ran from the sepulcher quickly with great awe and joy to tell the disciples what had happened. On their way, Jesus met them and said: “All hail.” The women fell at his feet and worshiped him. He continued: “Be not afraid. Go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.”***118: Jesus Appears To His Disciples As They Walk To EmmausMark 16:12,13; Luke 24:13-35 Two of the disciples were on their way to the village of Emmaus, nearly eight miles from Jerusalem. They were sad as they discussed the recent events. As they walked along, Jesus came to them and went with them; but they did not recognize him. Jesus said to them: “What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” One of the disciples, names Cleopas, replied: “Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and has not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” Jesus asked: “What things?” The disciples replied to him: “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people. And now the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But 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. Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulcher. And when they found not his body, they came,...

Your story isn't over, so your hope isn't gone, because Jesus is alive, and that changes everything. Today's sermon explores how Cleopas and his friend respond to hearing about the resurrection from Jesus. 

“Cleopas, it was him,” my brother exclaimed wide-eyed and in quick breaths. “He has truly risen from the dead! Let's eat quickly and return to Jerusalem to tell the others that we have seen him and that it is all true.” Friend, Don't you love those moments when the light bulb goes off and you see and hear a truth from God's Word for the first time? That's called revelation. Buy Don't Miss the Power on Amazon

O MILAGRE DAS SETE MILHASUma jornada à presença de Deus.Nos próximos domingos que antecipam a Páscoa, em unidade, receberemos revelações profundas e práticas para empoderar nossa vida e relacionamento com Deus! Esta série é baseada no livro “O milagre das sete milhas” - Steven Furtick, pastor da Elevation Church.13 Naquele mesmo dia, dois discípulos estavam indo para uma aldeia chamada Emaús, que ficava a uns dez quilômetros de Jerusalém. 14 E iam conversando a respeito de tudo o que tinha acontecido. 15 Enquanto conversavam e discutiam, o próprio Jesus se aproximou e ia com eles. 16 Porém os olhos deles estavam como que impedidos de o reconhecer. 17 Então ele lhes perguntou: — O que é que vocês estão discutindo pelo caminho? E eles pararam entristecidos. 18 Um, porém, chamado Cleopas, respondeu: — Será que você é o único que esteve em Jerusalém e não sabe o que aconteceu lá, nestes últimos dias? 19 Ele lhes perguntou: — Do que se trata? Eles explicaram: — Aquilo que aconteceu com Jesus, o Nazareno, que era profeta, poderoso em obras e palavras, diante de Deus e de todo o povo, 20 e como os principais sacerdotes e as nossas autoridades o entregaram para ser condenado à morte e o crucificaram. 21 Nós esperávamos que fosse ele quem havia de redimir Israel. Mas, depois de tudo isto, já estamos no terceiro dia desde que essas coisas aconteceram. 22 É verdade também que algumas mulheres do nosso grupo nos surpreenderam. Indo de madrugada ao túmulo 23 e não achando o corpo de Jesus, voltaram dizendo que tinham tido uma visão de anjos, os quais afirmam que ele vive. 24 De fato, alguns dos nossos foram ao túmulo e verificaram a exatidão do que as mulheres disseram; mas não o viram. 25 Então ele lhes disse: — Como vocês são insensatos e demoram para crer em tudo o que os profetas disseram! 26 Não é verdade que o Cristo tinha de sofrer e entrar na sua glória? 27 E, começando por Moisés e todos os Profetas, explicou-lhes o que constava a respeito dele em todas as Escrituras. (Lucas 24.13–27 NAA)

Passage: 13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” 25 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. (Luke 24:13-27) Song: In the Garden by Charles Austin Miles and Josh Garrels Lyrics: And He walks with me And He talks with me And He tells me I am His own And the joy we share as we tarry there None other has ever known I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I hear falling on my ear The Son of God discloses He speaks and the sound of His voice Is so sweet the birds hush their singing And the melody that He gave to me Within my heart is ringing I'd stay in the garden with Him Tho' the night around me be falling But He bids me go thro' the voice of woe His voice to me is calling Prayer: This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen. -The Book of Common Prayer

"Jesus asked them, 'What were you talking about as you walked along?' Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, 'Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?'" - Luke 24:13-35 Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

It's Easter afternoon and two disciples are leaving town in a hurry in the wake of Jesus's death.  There are some very strange features to this story. Why don't they recognize Jesus? Why does he do such a strange miracle? This episode asks these questions and shares one hot take on a longstanding mystery: Who was the unnamed disciple headed out of town with Cleopas? It all adds up to a story tailor made for 21st century skeptics.   Learn More The Extraordinary Story is a podcast about the life of Jesus Christ, who entered the maze of our world to transform it into a path to Him, today and always. The Extraordinary Story is produced by Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, and is written and hosted by Tom Hoopes.

Scripture - Luke 24:13-25  “Surprise Encounter”.  Other scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:20, Romans 10:17, Hebrews 13:20-21 The first day of Jesus' Resurrection was a day of surprises!   Today's story is one of the most incredible stories in the Bible. It is one of the most incredible acts of historical reporting found anywhere in all of literature and all of history!  It is the story of two disciples on the road to Emmaus and their surprise encounter with the One who is risen from the dead! The last day of the week is the Jewish day of the Sabbath Day which is a Saturday. Today's story takes place on Sunday, the first day of the week. But this was a special “first day of the week” because this particular Sunday was the first day after the Sabbath of Passover and thus a festival day: The Festival of First Fruits. Why is this significant? The Bible tells us Jesus is the First Fruits of those who rise from the dead. (1 Corinthians 15:20). So there's nothing accidental about God the Father choosing this particular day for Jesus' Resurrection! The story tells of two disciples walking and talking about all that had happened in the last week. They had heard bits and pieces. Their hopes were dashed at the brutal crucifixion of Jesus and the tragic reality seemed to be that everything they had pinned their hopes and lives upon was gone and dead with Jesus' death.  As they talked Jesus Himself came up and walked with them, but they were kept from recognizing Him. Why was God so intentional for them to have this conversation without realizing who they were talking to? We will find out…. Pastor brings in some holy speculation about who one of the disciples, Cleopas, may have been. He shares that Cleopas may be none other that Jesus' step uncle (His step father, Joseph's, brother.) As Jesus joins them He asks what they are discussing.  Incredulously they can't believe He doesn't know and they share what had happened in the previous days, ending with all they knew that had happened that morning with the women finding the empty tomb, Peter and John verifying the tomb really was empty, other women seeing and speaking with angels, Mary Magdalene encountering Jesus, Himself. And how they don't even know what to think about it all. Then Jesus says, “ ‘How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?' And then beginning with Moses, Jesus explained to them what was said in the Scriptures about Himself.”  What an amazing conversation this had to have been! Here they are hearing Jesus share about Himself, all while having no idea that it's actually Him with them! Pastor walks through Scriptures pointing out several possible sections of the Old Testament that Jesus may have shared that day with them as they walked. Whatever Jesus shared, it must have been a fascinating conversation because the Bible is a story that proclaims the goodness and faithfulness of God to an unfaithful creation.  It is the story that reminds us that the Living God will keep His Word even though we human beings so often fail. It is a story that tells there is One to come who will redeem and deliver and rule forever. How many times were these two disciples stopped in their tracks as they listened to Jesus explain the scriptures to them that day.  As they arrived at one of their houses, they invited Jesus to stay with them saying, “Please stay with us!”  What a great request…. Have you asked Jesus that? “Please stay with me.”  Have you invited Him by saying “I want to know You more and more!”  Jesus answered their request by staying with them and He will answer your request the same way! When Jesus was at the table in their home, He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it and passed it out and as He did so, their eyes were opened and they recognized who He was, and then Jesus disappeared. Back to our question: Why was God so intentional for them to have this conversation without realizing who they were talking to? We were able to see how they had accepted what they had heard on that walk - before they even realized who they had been walking with! The Bible says in Romans 10:17, “Faith come from hearing and hearing comes through the Word of the God.” Their faith blossomed as they heard Jesus speak the Words of God in the Old Testament, shared through Moses and the other prophets. When we hear the Word (the Bible) today - it is still a Word that comes from the very lips of God and that Word: transforms, renews, gives hope, gives peace, brings power, and it changes everything! After Jesus disappeared from their sight, they asked each other, “were not our hearts burning within as He talked with us and opened the scripture to us!” This is still true today - the Holy Spirit opens our minds to see the truth of the Living God. This is not religion - this is real life This is not a matter of ritual, this is a matter of living in a relationship with the Living God who loves us all and gave His Son for us all. After Jesus disappeared they returned at once to Jerusalem and found the eleven Disciples, telling them it was true the Lord had indeed risen!  They shared all they had experienced that day. This story isn't just an amazing story - this story is a clear testimony about God's desire for us and about His claim on our lives because the One who created us also bought us back, redeeming us with the blood of His Son. Our God comes looking for us. He comes seeking to walk with us, just as he sought to walk with these two. And He offers to us just what He offered them: Healing Hope Forgiveness Life Assurance Peace Power Joy He is the Risen One! And He is coming back! And so we say, “Amen, Come, Lord Jesus! Pastor ends with a reading of Hebrews 13:20-21 “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

01/19/2025 | A Great Plot Twist “ This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms.” Then He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:44-45 Plot Twists Cleopas experienced a huge plot twist.  Possible storylines: Jesus was dead, Jesus was missing, Jesus was alive. What storyline are you believing right now? Cleopas' personal storyline: Failure Cleopas' experience is your experience also! Jesus is the ultimate plot twist to our story! Jesus is still working out the big story. Jesus has a great twist for your story also!

"Jesus asked them, 'What were you talking about as you walked along?' Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, 'Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?'" - Luke 24:13-35 Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

The Baptism of our Lord The Collect Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Old Testament Isaiah 62:1-5 For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your builder marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. The Psalm Psalm 36:5-10 Dixit injustus 5 Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, * and your faithfulness to the clouds. 6 Your righteousness is like the strong mountains, your justice like the great deep; * you save both man and beast, O Lord. 7 How priceless is your love, O God! * your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast upon the abundance of your house; * you give them drink from the river of your delights. 9 For with you is the well of life, * and in your light we see light. 10 Continue your loving-kindness to those who know you, * and your favor to those who are true of heart. The New Testament 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says "Let Jesus be cursed!" and no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. The Gospel Luke 24:13-35 Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 2Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. Artwork: Vulnerability by Lorraine Almeida (used with permission).

On the day after his Resurrection, the Savior appeared to those who knew him best during his mortal ministry—Mary Magdalene, Cleopas, ten of the apostles, and many other followers. While they saw him physically, they did not recognize him. Instead, they mistook him for a gardener, stranger, passing traveler, and even another prophet, as they misunderstood his role as the Redeemer of Israel or the promised Messiah. Rather than rebuking them, the Savior and ministering angels worked to correct their mistaken expectations by teaching them the true identity of Christ. In this episode, Professor Krystal V. L. Pierce describes how the Resurrected Savior opens the spiritual eyes and minds of his followers and disciples, in ancient and modern times, through visual, audible, and tangible signs and teachings. By learning to identify the spiritual nature of the Savior, we can prepare to see him physically in the Second Coming.      Publications: “Seeing, Knowing, and Recognizing the True Identity of Christ” in He Was Seen: Witnessing the Risen Christ (Religious Studies Center, 2024) Book of Mormon Insights: Letting God Prevail in Your Life, ed. Kenneth L. Alford, Krystal V. L. Pierce, and Mary Jane Woodger (Religious Studies Center, 2024) “The Tower of Babel, the Jaredites, and the Nature of God” by George A. Pierce and Krystal V. L. Pierce in They Shall Grow Together: The Bible in the Book of Mormon (Religious Studies Center, 2022) Approaching Holiness: Exploring the History and Teachings of the Old Testament, ed. Krystal V. L. Pierce and David Rolph Seely (Religious Studies Center, 2021) “The Ger in the Pentateuch and the Book of Mormon: Refugee Treatment under the Mosaic Law” in Covenant of Compassion: Caring for the Marginalized and Disadvantaged in the Old Testament (Religious Studies Center, 2021) “Egypt and the Egyptians” in Pearl of Great Price Reference Companion (Deseret Book, 2017) “Egypt's New Kingdom” in A Bible Reader's History of the Ancient World (Religious Studies Center, 2016) “The Brazen Serpent as a Symbol of Jesus Christ: A Dichotomy of Benevolence and Admonition” in I Glory in My Jesus: Understanding Christ in the Book of Mormon (Religious Studies Center, 2023)   Click here to learn more about Krystal V. L. Pierce

Part 16 of "Conversations Jesus Had." Luke 24:9-43. This sermon focuses on the story where Jesus walked with Cleopas and another disciple after His resurrection.

"Jesus asked them, 'What were you talking about as you walked along?' Then the one named Cleopas asked Jesus, 'Are you the only person from Jerusalem who didn't know what was happening there these last few days?'" - Luke 24:13-35 Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of FORMED.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle.

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.

LITURGY FOR THE MOMENT A liturgy for those disillusioned with their faith 10.13.24 A Liturgy for those disillusioned with their faith We come with heavy hearts and broken dreams, Wrestling with our faith and struggling with uncertainty. We are weary, tired, and disillusioned, Wrapped in a dark night of the soul. Would you walk with us on our road to Emmaus? Would you meet us, O God, in our brokenness? Though our eyes are dimmed, our hearts still burn. Help us recognize you walking beside us. Disillusionment: a feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be. Luke 24:13-21 13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. Misguided hopes always lead to disillusionment. Luke 24:25-27 25 And he (Jesus) said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Disappointment and disillusionment are the inevitable results of anything we pursue that doesn't have Christ at the center. Luke 24:28-35 28 So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, 29 but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them.30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?”33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. Jesus walks with us in our disappointment, disillusionment, and despair. In his grace, Jesus redirects our hearts and misguided hopes back to Him. A resurrected Jesus changes everything. You will end up on the road to Emmaus full of disappointment and disillusionment if… · You overemphasize the rules and underemphasize love · Your faith becomes a religious obligation or duty · You are more concerned with theological accuracy than intimacy with the Father · Your hope is in politics, power, or the systems of this world · Your faith is focused on a cause or justice issue more than fellowship with Christ · You are more focused on what you are against than what you are for · You feed on the things of this world more than the bread of life Romans 8:15-16 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.