Empty Tomb
* Jesus was crucified (Luke 23:33-49). His dead body was laid in a tomb (23:50-56). The next morning, some women went to the tomb, but the tomb was empty! (24:1-3) Angels appeared to them and said, "He is not here; he has risen!" (24:4-6).

* The women went to tell the Eleven, but "they did not believe the women, because their words seemed like nonsense" (24:9, 11). But Peter and John went to see (24:12; John 20:3-8), and they confirmed it was true. The tomb was empty. Had Jesus really risen from the dead?

Gloomy Road
* After Jesus' crucifixion, his followers were very sad, disappointed and discouraged. They had believed that Jesus was the Messiah (Christ), who was going to deliver them from their oppression, and take them into the kingdom of God. But Jesus' death had killed their hopes.

* The day after Jesus' death, two of his followers left Jerusalem. They were among the sad, disappointed and discouraged. The road ahead seemed gloomy. Read Luke 24:13-35.

Cloudy Perspective
* As the two followers (or disciples) walked along the road, they were discussing the things that had happened. "Jesus himself came up and walked along with them, but they were kept from recognizing him" (24:15-16). Jesus asked them, "What are you discussing?" (24:17)

1. Their faces were downcast (24:17). They were sad, disappointed and discouraged. What was the basis for their feelings? What data had they considered? How did the empty tomb affect their understanding and feelings?

Illuminating Instruction
* In response to the two disciples, Jesus said, "How foolish you are…" (24:25). The two disciples lacked understanding. Their perspective was cloudy (unclear, confused). Their observations and discussions fell short. They lacked a true understanding concerning Jesus.

2. What did the two disciples lack? What data had they failed to properly consider and understand? (24:25-27)

* Jesus asked, "Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter into glory?" (24:26) And Jesus led them through all the Scriptures, explaining how the Scriptures pointed to himself as the Messiah and Savior of the world (24:27).

3. Like the two disciples, our perspectives can be cloudy. Even as believers, our expectations, observations, and discussions can be off track, and leave us confused and discouraged. What is needed? What must we do? In what way can it help?

Confirming Revelation
* As the two disciples approached their destination, they urged their traveling companion to stay with them. So Jesus went in to stay with them (24:28-29). As they began to eat together, Jesus "took the bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight" (24:30-31).

4. Why do you think their eyes were not opened earlier? Why do you think Jesus delayed in revealing himself? How might this story apply to us today?

Good News!
* The perspective of the two disciples was no longer cloudy. They saw the Light. They saw the Scriptures in a new light (24:32), and they experienced the reality of the risen Christ. They rushed back to Jerusalem to tell the Eleven. But the Eleven also had exciting news, saying …

¶ "It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon (Peter)" (24:34).

* Then Jesus appeared to them and proved that he really was alive (24:36-45). He declared that they were witnesses, and that the good news would be preached to all nations. Read 24:46-48.

Reflection & Application
† Do you believe Jesus has risen? If not, investigate the reasons why so many people do believe. But remember, "seeing" Jesus requires God's revelation, by the Spirit, mainly through the Bible.
† Believers, are you troubled or discouraged? Review question 3 and seek God-given perspective.