Canaan Fellowship

Post-Resurrection Appearances and Transformation of the Disciples

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Canaan Fellowship
Canaan Fellowship
Post-Resurrection Appearances and Transformation of the Disciples
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Bruce Hempel reflects on the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus and the transformation of the disciples, particularly Peter, who was restored after his denial. He emphasizes the call to follow Christ wholeheartedly, contrasting the disciples’ initial immaturity with their later faithfulness, even unto death. The sermon highlights the cost of discipleship and the legacy of the early church.

Bullet points with key content:

  • [00:00:00] Bruce opens with humor about his schedule, including a visit to prison ministry, and transitions to discussing Easter week and Christ’s sacrifice.
  • [00:01:09] Focus shifts to John 21, where Jesus appears to the disciples post-resurrection, restoring Peter after his three denials with three affirmations of love.
    • [00:03:44] Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me more than these?” (agape vs. phileo), commissioning him to “Feed my sheep.”
    • [00:05:45] Jesus prophesies Peter’s martyrdom (tradition says crucifixion upside down).
  • [00:07:52] Application: Avoid comparing ourselves to others; focus on Christ’s call to “Follow me.”
  • [00:08:40] The disciples’ immaturity (e.g., arguing over greatness at the Last Supper) contrasts with their later faithfulness.
  • [00:12:31] Key discipleship demands:
    1. Deny self, take up cross daily (Matthew 16:24-25; Mark 8:34-35; Luke 9:23-24).
    2. Love Christ above family (Matthew 10:37-39).
  • [00:15:24] Overview of the apostles’ martyrdoms:
    • James: First martyred (Acts 12).
    • Peter: Crucified under Nero (AD 66).
    • John: Exiled; natural death.
    • Others: Martyred across the Roman world (e.g., Andrew crucified in Greece, Thomas in India).
  • [00:20:26] Paul’s transformation (Acts 9): Persecutor to apostle, enduring beatings, shipwrecks, and eventual beheading under Nero.
  • [00:28:48] Paul’s humility (“chief of sinners”) and passion (“I count all as loss for Christ” – Philippians 3:4-17).
  • [00:30:47] Closing challenge: Live and die glorifying God, whether through martyrdom or daily service (e.g., Dorcas’s love in Acts 9:36-42).

Scripture References

  • John 21
  • Matthew 16:24-25
  • Mark 8:34-35
  • Luke 9:23-24
  • Matthew 10:37-39
  • Acts 12
  • Acts 9:1-31
  • 2 Corinthians 11
  • Philippians 3:4-17
  • Acts 9:36-42

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