Table Talk: Sharing Food, Time, and Jesus with People “Burning Hearts, Open Eyes, Bold Voices” (Billy Russell, 07/21/19)

Table Talk: Sharing Food, Time, and Jesus with People

 “Burning Hearts, Open Eyes, Bold Voices” (Luke 24:13-35)

 

Two deeply disappointed and discouraged disciples, Cleopas and another, journey home on the afternoon of Resurrection Day. They discuss recent events with a stranger, Jesus incognito, while on the seven-mile walk to Emmaus. These two fellow strugglers experience Jesus’ presence over a meal as He prays, breaks bread, then immediately vanishes! Today, we explore the first part of their profound faith story.

 

Closed eyes (vv.13-16)-

     They talk while they walk about the events of the weekend.

     They are “kept from recognizing” Jesus.

     Jesus asks them about their conversation.

 

Discouraged hearts (vv.17-24)-

     “Are you...?”- sarcasm of pain.

     “What things?”- Jesus’ invitation to tell their story.

      They recount their Messianic hope in Jesus and His crucifixion.

      3rd day story of the women’s report of the empty tomb.

 

Burning hearts (vv.25-30)-

     Jesus redirects their Messianic hopes: suffering and glory!

     Jesus shares His story! Jesus explains OT prophecy about Himself!

     They extend hospitality to Jesus (“stay w/ us”) and He accepts.

 

Open eyes (vv.31-33)-

     When they prayed together and broke bread, Jesus is revealed to them!

     “Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him...” He vanishes!

     Divine revelation is necessary to know Jesus as resurrected Lord.

    

Open mouths (vv.34-35)-

     It is the disciple’s joy to make Jesus known after coming to know Him.

     These two disciples are the affirming voices of the resurrection for the

          eleven and those gathered with them.

     Their boldness infuses the astonishment of Resurrection Day with

          validity and credibility.