A New Reality...

Key Points

We are to learn to reckon upon certain Reckonings and Declarations which Christ’s Death and Resurrection have secured.

To reckon upon truth means to count on it, consider it true, live it, be confident in it, draw upon it, and know it matters. If not, we get stuck and miss the full benefits of the truth.

Christ’s resurrection creates a new reality which ought to bring about changes in our lives, like rejoicing. Jesus’ ten appearances in the 40 days before ascending were opportunities for His disciples to adjust and grow or even get unstuck from misconceptions.

Jesus’ followers were not fully free to go make other disciples until certain hang-ups or hurdles were dealt with. 

In the last 39 days before Jesus ascended, He was weaning His disciples from having to see Him before they’d believe in Him, teaching us all to walk by faith and not by sight.

Discussion

Would Thomas’ doubt ever have been cured if Jesus didn’t accommodate him? Would Peter be able to fulfill his calling if Jesus didn’t confront Him on the beach? Do you know you’re forgiven but still feel unworthy? How did Paul handle that? 1 Corinthians 15:9-11

Do all our hangups have to get dealt with fully before we can be used by the Lord? Can they be a hindrance to our effectiveness if never faced and changed? What’s one hangup in your life which has affected your witness? (e.g. grumbling, complaining, etc.)

Since you have the Holy Spirit in you, empowering you with the Risen Christ, do you know currently what He is affirming in you or convicting you of to bring growth?

Mary’s name spoken to her by Jesus in her grief changed everything. Are you assured that Jesus called your name, and you belong to Him?

Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong and were tempted to do whatever it took to fit in?

The Emmaus disciples stated their hearts burned within them. Why? Has (or could) the same thing light a fire in your heart? How important is it to get the big picture in Scripture?

Jesus spoke “Peace to you” in some of His appearances. Romans 5:1 speaks of the objective “peace withGod” acquired by Christ’s cross. Philippians 4:6-7 speaks of the subjective “peace of God” acquired by prayer. How does reckoning upon the first help toward bringing about the second?

Application

Name the 10 appearances in the 40 days. 5 the first day. 3 after Jesus’ ascension?

Pick another appearance of Jesus not talked about and see what you can learn from what Jesus says to them that applies to you. Like Revelation 1:10-18.

Ask God to show you if there is anything He wants to free you of to help you move forward. Mary was freed from 10 demons, loneliness, not belonging, and deep grief.