What steps can we take to verify and strengthen our faith like the disciples? The Verse That Launches Us “Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had described, but Him they did not see.” (Luke 24:24) The disciples did not settle for rumors; they checked the empty tomb themselves. Their actions outline a reliable path for anyone who wants a faith that is examined, verified, and continually strengthened. Step 1: Investigate the Evidence • Read the primary sources—Scripture itself. • Compare gospel accounts (Luke 24; Matthew 28; John 20) to see the harmony of eyewitness testimony. • Follow the Berean model: “They … examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) • Note personal experience, but never above God’s Word; let feelings confirm facts, not create them. Step 2: Anchor in Prophecy • Jesus “explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself.” (Luke 24:27) • Trace key prophecies: Isaiah 53 (suffering Messiah), Psalm 16:10 (resurrection), Micah 5:2 (birthplace). • Seeing centuries-old promises fulfilled in Christ cements confidence that God’s plan is trustworthy. Step 3: Learn in Community • The Emmaus travelers processed events together (Luke 24:14–15). • Gather regularly: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship.” (Acts 2:42) • Healthy discussion sharpens understanding, exposes error, and encourages perseverance. Step 4: Invite Christ to Abide • “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening.” (Luke 24:29) • Make time and space for uninterrupted communion—private worship, meditation, silent listening. • Faith grows when His presence moves from occasional visit to constant residence. Step 5: Watch for Him in Simple Moments • “He took bread, spoke a blessing and broke it.” (Luke 24:30) • Ordinary activities—meals, work, conversations—become platforms for recognizing the risen Lord. • Practice gratitude; the mundane turns miraculous when acknowledged as a gift from His hand. Step 6: Let Scripture Ignite Your Heart • “Were not our hearts burning within us as He talked … and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32) • Pray before reading; ask the Spirit to illuminate truth (John 16:13). • Journal insights; rehearse them aloud to reinforce memory and conviction. Step 7: Testify Immediately • “They got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem … recounting what had happened.” (Luke 24:33–35) • Share fresh discoveries while zeal is high—family, friends, small group. • Verbalizing truth solidifies it internally and multiplies it externally. Step 8: Walk Forward in Sure Hope • Jesus promised, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) • Remember His commendation: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) • Daily rely on His ongoing presence rather than a one-time proof. Putting It All Together Investigate the facts, anchor in prophecy, learn with others, invite Christ to stay, recognize Him in life’s routine, let Scripture set your heart ablaze, testify quickly, and walk on in His promised presence. Follow these steps and you will verify—and keep strengthening—your faith just as the first disciples did. |
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