On the Road to Emmaus

Luke 24:13–16 ESV

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.

The narrative that follows is one of the most moving of the entire New Testament, and is recorded only in Luke’s gospel. It tells of the appearance of Jesus to two people walking on the road to Emmaus.

For some reason Christ kept his identity a secret for the moment and fell in with them as they were walking and eavesdropped on their conversation.

Luke 24:17–18 ESV

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?”

Skepticism and amazement set the stage for the illumination needed by the disciples regarding the truth of the resurrection.

These two followers of Christ knew the essential facts of what had happened not only in the previous few days (crucifixion and resurrection) but also throughout Jesus’ ministry.

Conversing and reasoning serve as a precursor to knowledge of the Savior. Nevertheless personal knowledge of Jesus in the context of both initial salvation or communion with Im requires additional illumination.

Their inability to know him physically serves as a picture of their skepticism. These disciples had already believed in Him—but their belief needs to be complete. That completion comes by way of Christ’s resurrection.

Jesus employs a method of asking questions that provides the opportunity for truth to be explored and received.

Luke 24:19 ESV

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,

Application: Evangelism must incorporate asking meaningful questions and listening carefully to the response. Evangelism is not merely an event, it is a process centered on genuine respect and relationship. WE CANNOT BE USED-CAR SALESMEN!!!

Evangelism must be an act of authentic love (motivated by genuine compassion and empathy) rather than an activity to accomplish for personal fulfilment.

Cleopas’ Response

Luke 24:21 ESV

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.

Cleopas speaks as if Jesus’ death put an end to their hopes of the redemption of Israel—which is the very expectation introduced at the beginning of the Gospel narrative.

Each additional facet of Cleopas’ recounting adds to the dramatic irony of his words. The details of Christ’s resurrection that astonished the disciples should have also convinced him and his friend.

The answer to our questions are so often right in front of us—if we would take the time to listen, observe, and internalize what Christ did.

Jesus’ Response

Luke 24:25–27 ESV

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.

Jesus responded with the Word of God—and connecting the Scripture to himself.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 ESV

16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Application: Do not neglect an understanding of the Scripture (including the Old Testament).

Results

The two disciples were drawn to Jesus.

The Word, coupled with the reality of Jesus and the act of communion (intimate fellowship) opened their understanding and solidified their faith.

Luke 24:31–32 ESV

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?”

The Lesson: Engagement with people is an essential part of being a true follower of Jesus Christ. This engagement provided the opportunity for the Holy Spirit and you to connect people with the truth of the Gospel.