When New is Not Enough: Jesus Sends His People | Bryan Bunagan | 1-25-26

Imagine being one of Jesus’ disciples: you watched Him die, you assumed all your hopes were over, and then rumors start spreading—His tomb is empty, angels were seen, and people claim they spoke with Him. You want it to be true… and you’re also afraid to hope again.That’s the moment Luke 24 captures. While the disciples are still talking, Jesus suddenly stands among them and says, “Peace be with you.” They think they’re seeing a ghost—so Jesus meets their doubts with clarity and kindness. He invites them to look, touch, and see. He even eats in front of them to prove He’s truly alive. Fear turns to joy. Doubt turns to amazement.Then Jesus does something powerful: He grounds their experience in Scripture. He reminds them that His suffering and resurrection fulfilled what was written, and He opens their minds to understand God’s Word.But Jesus doesn’t stop with proof—He gives purpose. He tells them what comes next: repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached to all nations, and “you are witnesses of these things.”If sharing your faith feels intimidating, you’re not alone. Jesus promises power for the mission: the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2, we see that promise fulfilled at Pentecost as the Spirit empowers the disciples to proclaim the wonders of God to people from many nations. Some respond with questions, some with ridicule—but our role is faithfulness.Jesus came to save His people—and He came to send His people.Memorable Lines & Takeaways“Jesus didn’t rebuke their fear—He addressed it, and He gave them hope.”“The hope Jesus offers is Himself: ‘Touch and see.’”“Jesus came to save His people, and Jesus came to send His people.”“We’re not responsible for how people respond; we’re responsible for answering God’s call to be His witnesses.”Bible Study QuestionsWhere do you relate most to the disciples—fear, doubt, joy, or confusion? Why?Why do you think Jesus greeted them with peace before anything else?How does Jesus connect the resurrection to Scripture, and why does that matter for faith today?What does it mean for you personally to be a witness of Jesus?What holds you back most from sharing your faith, and what would it look like to take one step forward?How does knowing the Holy Spirit empowers you change the way you view evangelism?When people respond differently—curious, confused, or mocking—how can you remain faithful?8. What is one practical thing you can do this month to grow in readiness: share your testimony, learn a simple gospel outline, or study Scripture with someone?