Have you ever thought about the time between the resurrection and the ascension of Jesus? He ascended near Bethany after forty days from His resurrection (Luke 24:50; Acts 1:3). These days were critical as Jesus made additional preparations for the apostles to take the Gospel forward (Luke 24:44-45). Another interesting thing Jesus provided were “infallible proofs.” The NKJV has “unmistakable” as an alternate term that was considered for “infallible” (Acts 1:3). Luke records several appearances of Jesus to various people under various circumstances between the resurrection and the ascension. Perhaps this was the period during which Jesus’ brothers were convinced and converted (Acts 1:14). Initially, His brothers did not believe Him (John 7:5), but James would go on to be a major leader in the church of Jerusalem. The apostles were shaken to the core by the crucifixion of Jesus. There were certainly feelings of regret that needed to be addressed, such as the denials of Peter (John 21:15f). There are other details that are not provided, but we can read of the apostles’ and disciples’ steadfast determination to proclaim the risen Christ and know of their unflinching resolve in the face of persecution and death. They were no longer afraid. Likewise, we, today, ought to demonstrate in our lives unflinching resolve, even, if necessary, in the face of persecution and death.
