Then were the disciples glad when they saw the Lord

And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. (John 20:20) ~~~~~~~~ A Lord's day afternoon service in the lounge of Milward Pilgrim Home, Tunbridge Wells Kent. ~~~~~~~~ *1/ The lead-up to the "Then" 2/ Then were the disciples glad when they saw the Lord 3/ How we now see the Lord - by faith through the word.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon centers on the transformative joy experienced by the disciples upon encountering the risen Christ, tracing their journey from sorrow to gladness through the resurrection's undeniable evidence—the empty tomb, the linen wrappings, and the personal appearances of Jesus. It emphasizes how the disciples' initial grief, rooted in the crucifixion's fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy and the physical suffering of Christ, gave way to profound relief and joy when Jesus appeared to them, proving His victory over death, fear, and the powers of darkness. The preacher highlights that this joy, though initially met with disbelief and fear, was confirmed through Christ's physical presence and the testimony of Scripture, culminating in the disciples' heartfelt gladness. Finally, the sermon turns to the present reality of faith, affirming that while believers no longer see Christ with physical eyes, they encounter Him through the Word, where the Holy Spirit kindles spiritual recognition, warmth, and longing—just as the disciples on the road to Emmaus experienced joy through Scripture alone. This faith, though unseen, is blessed and enduring, producing a joy that no earthly power can take away.