7 Days of the Easter Story: A Family Experience Through the Feelings of Holy WeekНамуна

The Bravery of the Disciples’ Call

After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples several times and “to over five hundred brothers and sisters at one time” (1 Corinthians 15:6). He ate with the disciples, showed them the scars on His hands, and forgave Peter. But some of the disciples still doubted and had a hard time believing Jesus was alive. Knowing their doubt, Jesus told them that “all authority,” not just some authority, but “all authority has been given to [Him] in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18). He commanded them to tell the world all about Him, and then He ascended—meaning He was taken up—into heaven and was seated at the right hand of God. He is there to this day (Mark 16:19).

For the disciples, this was a powerful moment, and it’s one that matters for you as well. Through our faith in Him, we, too, have been given His authority to go out into the world to disciple, baptize, and teach others to follow His commands. Sounds amazing, right?

After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples went out and began preaching the good news of Jesus’ resurrection (Mark 16:20). After everything that had happened—the chief priests and Pharisees arresting Jesus, the crowds demanding He die, and the empty tomb—the disciples were now bravely out in public doing what Jesus commanded. These were the same disciples who, just weeks before, had scattered and hid and denied even knowing Him. Now they were taking the authority they had through their faith in Jesus to bravely tell everyone about Him!

Bravery: Being brave doesn’t mean you don’t feel afraid; it means you choose to act even if you feel scared. After Jesus told the disciples to go into the world to make disciples, baptize, and teach, He said, “Remember, I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). Years and years before, God had commanded Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORDyour God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Just like Joshua and the disciples, you can be brave and share God’s love with others because He is with you.

Family Discussion Questions:

• Do you think you’d be one of the disciples who still doubted that Jesus was alive again? Are there times today you doubt Him?
• Have you ever been afraid to share your faith with others? If so, what made it so difficult?
• When have you been brave?

Thank you for reading!

This plan is based on the children's book 10 Days of the Easter Story by Dr. Josh and Christi Straub. Click here to learn more or purchase your copy.