In our last visit we concluded that when Jesus encountered and enlightened the disciples and others with them, helping them to understand the Scriptures, they were now ready to be enlisted! When He opened their minds to understand they were ready to receive their enlistment assignment.
Actually, some had responded in a spontaneous way. The women who found the tomb empty and received the word of the angel, “He is Risen!” immediately went to where others had gathered with the Apostles and told them. Their witness, however, was considered as nonsense.
The two Emmaus disciples returned immediately to the gathered group in Jerusalem and shared what they had experienced. Even Peter after meeting the risen Christ could not convince the others. Some doubted even after Jesus appeared to the group, until He gave them incontrovertible evidence that He was alive.
When He opened their minds, finally they understood and believed! Then they were ready to be enlisted and receive their assignment. Here it is: “This is what is written. The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised, but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” This was their enlistment, to be Christ’s ambassadors.