How does Jesus' blessing in Luke 24:50 encourage us to bless others? The moment of blessing in Bethany Luke 24:50 says, “When He had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, He lifted up His hands and blessed them.” • The risen Christ is physically present—proof of victory over death. • His raised hands echo the priestly posture in Numbers 6:22-27, affirming Him as our ultimate High Priest. • The blessing is the final earthly act of Jesus before His ascension (vv. 51-52), sealing everything He has taught and done with a word of favor. What Jesus’ blessing communicates • Acceptance: His disciples, once fearful deserters, now stand under divine favor. • Empowerment: The blessing anticipates the coming of the Spirit (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). • Continuity: God’s promise to “bless” and make a blessing (Genesis 12:2) now flows through the risen Son to His followers. Why this encourages us to bless others • We are already blessed. Ephesians 1:3—“He has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing.” Recipients naturally become distributors. • Christ’s example is our pattern. 1 Peter 2:21 reminds us that He left “an example, that you should follow in His steps.” • Blessing reflects the heart of God. Proverbs 11:25—“A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” • We participate in God’s redemptive mission. Through spoken words, acts of kindness, and prayer, we mirror Jesus’ own final act on earth. Practical ways to extend blessing • Speak life-giving words: echo the priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) over family, friends, and church gatherings. • Serve selflessly: meet tangible needs (Matthew 25:35-40). • Pray for favor on others—even adversaries (Matthew 5:44; 1 Peter 3:9). • Give generously: time, resources, and encouragement, knowing “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). • Model peace and forgiveness: carry into every relationship the reconciling spirit Jesus demonstrated (Colossians 3:13-15). Living under lifted hands • Christ’s hands remain lifted in intercession (Hebrews 7:25). • His blessing empowers our witness and sustains our hope until He returns (Jude 1:24-25). • Each day, we go out like those first disciples—hearts full of joy (Luke 24:52), lips ready to praise, and lives committed to bless others with the grace we have received. |
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