Thoughts On Luke 24

by Smith, A. G. | Category: General | Aug 1943

We would like to pass on a few thoughts suggested by this portion of Scripture. The morning was that of the Lord's resurrection from the tomb, and the eleven apostles and other disciples were gathered together (verse 9) and they were bewildered at the news, brought to them by the women, that Christ was risen. Although the Lord had previously informed them of His death and that after three days He would rise again, they either misunderstood Him or forgot His words. How important it is for us to take heed to the words of the Lord as we read the Scriptures!

Verse 18 tells us of "two of them," Cleopas and his companion, who were going to Emmaus. They were disciples; their hopes were in Him "that it was He which should redeem Israel " (verse 21)? but by His death their hopes are blasted and consequently they were looking sad. While it is true that He will yet redeem Israel and reign as King, they had overlooked the fact that the prophets had foretold that Christ should suffer before He would enter into His glory

Sometimes God allows His children to pass through circumstances that cause anxiety and disappointment in order that they may learn to trust Him more. It was good that the disciples conversation was concerning the Lord, and what a difference it made when the Lord joined them and "interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself" (verse 27)! There is nothing like the word of the Lord to cause the heart to burn with love to Him under all circumstances.

We are reminded of Malachi 3.16, where a few who feared the LORD spake one with another, and He hearkened to them with pleasure and promised to do them good If we follow their example what a joy we will be to the Lord and what a blessing to others!

The destination of Cleopas and his companion was soon reached and "they constrained Him saying Abide with us for it is toward evening, and the day is now far spent "(verse 29) Easily constrained He entered their dwelling and in His giving thanks and breaking the loaf they recognised Him and then He became invisible Their hearts thus gladdened, and though late in the evening, they returned to Jerusalem and made known to the others how they had seen the Lord.

As disciples of the Lord Jesus we are on our homeward journey; with some of us it may not be for long, or it may be we shall all soon hear His welcome "shout" calling us home. How blessed to know that we can have His companionship all the way home by means of His word and the Holy Spirit (John 14.28)! We note His message in Revelation 3.14-20, and if perchance there is lukewarmness in any assembly let each saint hear His voice and respond thereto, and thus the warm glow of love will again return, and though we may experience His chastening hand yet we know it is in love He dealeth (Hebrews 13.5-6).

Smith, A. G. | Aug 1943
General