John 20¹⁹ When it was evening on that first day of the week, the disciples were gathered together with the doors locked because they feared the Jews. Jesus came, stood among them, and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

²⁰ Having said this, he showed them his hands and his side. So the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

²¹ Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, I also send you.”

The resurrection of Jesus Christ authenticated the identity of Jesus and affirmed all of the promises that He made. These verses in John 20 took place on the same day that the tomb was found empty and Mary had encountered the resurrected Jesus. Five different appearances of Jesus took place on the day of the resurrection. The tomb was empty, but the disciples gathered behind locked doors. The doors were secure and locked to prevent any unwelcome entry. Suddenly, Jesus came and stood in their midst. It was an unexpected and miraculous appearance. They believed, but they were uncertain how to live in response to what had taken place. Jesus comforted his disciples, instructed them, and sent them.

Jesus came and stood among them. He did not remain distant. He came near. The doors were locked, fear was present, and their faith was fragile. Yet here was Jesus in their midst, the one who promised He would never leave or forsake us.

Jesus said, “Peace be with you…” His words represent peace with God and the peace of God that are available to all who will believe. The cross was sufficient. The wrath of God was satisfied. The penalty for sin was satisfied. They did not have to earn what Christ secured. They simply needed to believe and rest in it.

Jesus said, “As the Father has sent me, I also send you.” The resurrection was not the end of the story for the disciples; it was the inauguration of a mission. Jesus was sent from Heaven to earth to reveal the Father, redeem sinners, and bring eternal life. Disciples of Jesus are sent to live for Him, proclaim the good news, and advance His kingdom.

The disciples were able to move from fear to a holy boldness. They came out of hiding to live on mission. As we reflect on the presence of Jesus with His disciples and His words to them, we are reminded that He is present with us, brings us peace, and sends us out in His name. Christ is King! Death, Hell, and the grave have been defeated. Our future is secure when we trust in Him.

The Risen Jesus calms our fears, claims our lives, and compels us to take part in His blessed mission!