Spurgeon Morning and Evening May 25 PM

Biblical Context

The Gospel of Luke is one of the four accounts of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection. It was written by Luke, a physician and traveling companion of the Apostle Paul. He wasn’t an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry himself, but he carefully gathered information from those who were. Luke’s gospel is known for its detailed historical references and its focus on Jesus’ compassion for the poor, the marginalized, and women. It also features a strong emphasis on prayer and the Holy Spirit. This specific story, the encounter on the road to Emmaus, is found only in Luke’s Gospel, showing his unique perspective and commitment to telling the full story of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances.

Key Word Study

From Luke 24:35, we find the Greek word egnōsthē (ἐγνώσθη), which is often translated as “known.” This word comes from the root ginōskō (γινώσκω), meaning “to know,” “to come to know,” “to recognize,” or “to understand.” It’s more than just intellectual awareness; it often means a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge. In the context of the Emmaus road, it means that the disciples didn’t just hear facts about the stranger; they recognized His identity in a very personal way when He broke bread. It was a moment of deep revelation, not just observation. They knew Him for who He truly was, Jesus, the risen Lord. This recognition changed everything for them, spurring them to action and witness.

The Emmaus Journey: From Doubt to Daring

The story begins with two disciples journeying to Emmaus, their hearts heavy with sadness and misunderstanding. They couldn’t quite grasp what had happened in Jerusalem. As they walked, a mysterious stranger joined them, and he really charmed them with his words. They hadn’t recognized Him yet, but they felt pulled to Him. When they finally reached Emmaus and were ready for their evening meal, they practically made Him stay with them. They constrained Him to abide with them, because the day was far spent. They just didn’t want the conversation to end.

Recognizing the Risen Lord

It was at that meal, as the source tells us, that the mysterious stranger who had so enchanted them upon the road, took bread and brake it, made Himself known to them, and then vanished out of their sight. This simple act – the breaking of bread – was the key. Suddenly, their eyes were open! The man they had just spent hours with was Jesus Himself, alive! But just as quickly as they recognized Him, He was gone. Can you imagine that shock and wonder?

A Journey Back, Driven by Joy

Even though it was much later, their love was a lamp to their feet, yea, wings also; they forgot the darkness, their weariness was all gone, and forthwith they journeyed back the threescore furlongs to tell the gladsome news of a risen Lord, who had appeared to them by the way. Think about that: they had just walked for miles, it was dark, and they were probably tired. But the moment they knew Jesus was alive, all that tiredness left. They turned right around and hurried back to Jerusalem. They weren’t just walking; they were practically flying back because of the joy and the message they carried.

Sharing the Good News

And they rose up the same hour, and returned Jerusalem…and they told what things were done in the way, and how He was known of them. The disciples weren’t alone in their excitement. When they reached the Christians in Jerusalem, and were received by a burst of joyful news before they could tell their own tale. Imagine walking in, ready to spill your amazing story, only to find everyone else already bursting with good news! These early Christians were all on fire to speak of Christ’s resurrection, and to proclaim what they knew of the Lord; they made common property of their experiences. They weren’t keeping their joy to themselves; they were sharing every bit of it, making sure everyone knew what God had done.

Your Call to Witness

This evening let their example impress us deeply. We too must bear our witness concerning Jesus. It’s not just for the apostles or the “super spiritual.” It’s for you. Your personal experience with Jesus is special and needed. Think about how John’s account of the sepulchre needed to be supplemented by Peter; and Mary could speak of something further still; combined, we have a full testimony from which nothing can be spared. Each person’s story adds to the whole picture. Your story, your encounter, it makes the bigger story of what Jesus is doing in the world more complete.

Contributing Your Unique Gift

We have each of us peculiar gifts and special manifestations; but the one object God has in view is the perfecting of the whole body of Christ. This means you have something special to bring. You have experiences, insights, and ways God has shown up for you that no one else has quite like you do. We must, therefore, bring our spiritual possessions and lay them at the apostle’s feet, and make distribution unto all of what God has given to us. It’s like bringing your best treasure and sharing it so everyone gets richer in their faith.

Don’t Hold Back the Truth

Keep back no part of the precious truth, but speak what you know, and testify what you have seen. This isn’t a suggestion; it’s a clear call. Don’t hide the amazing things God has done in your life. Don’t worry about what others might think. Let not the toil or darkness, or possible unbelief of your friends, weigh one moment in the scale. Those things – feeling tired, the challenges around you, or even your friends not believing – they shouldn’t stop you for even a second. Your truth is too powerful to be silenced by these worries.

March to Your Duty

Up, and be marching to the place of duty, and there tell what great things God has shown to your soul. This is your mission. Get up, get going, and share your story. What has God done for you? What has He revealed to you? That’s what you need to tell. Just like those Emmaus disciples, who forgot their weariness and the dark road, you’re called to move with purpose and share the good news. You’ve got a story, and it needs to be told.