Twelve Features of abundant life in Christ (1-6)
So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them (Luke 24:15).
In Luke 24 and Acts 1, as the Lord closes His ministry on earth, I think He outlines for us the foundation, progress and completion of the Christian life. I like to think of these as the 12 features of abundant life in Christ.
1. The resurrection of Jesus Christ “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again’” (Luke 24:5-7).
The resurrection is the proof of the finished work of redemption. By faith in Christ, we are eternally saved and walk in the newness of life.
2. The presence of Jesus Christ “So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them” (v. 15).
There are two parts to the story of the journey to Emmaus. During the first part, the disciples didn’t know it was Jesus who was with them. They only discovered it was Jesus as they ate a meal together in their home. But Jesus was with them throughout the whole of the journey, whether they understood it or not. He has promised never to leave or forsake us.
3. The challenge of faith “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” (vv. 25-26).
Faith is also a journey, and on it our faith can stumble, or it can shine. Our faith in Christ for salvation should encourage us not to foolishly doubt or be slow to trust Him, but to follow Him wisely and eagerly by believing and obeying His word.
4. The light of God’s word “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself” (v. 27).
We don’t read and meditate on the word of God to become experts in exposition, but to learn of Christ. The word of God teaches me how to worship, follow and serve the Saviour, and reveals the whole counsel of God.
5. Burning hearts “And they said to one another, ‘Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?’” (v. 32).
God speaks directly to our hearts, revealing the Person of Christ and generating a response of love in our spirits.
6. Energetic lives “So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, ‘The Lord is risen indeed’” (vv. 33-34).
Faith in Christ, the light of God’s word, and enflamed hearts produce energetic and focussed service. To be continued…
