During the final 40 days of Jesus' life, he appeared to his disciples multiple times, transforming their grief and fear into joy, confidence, and courage. By encouraging, deepening their understanding of the Scriptures, and training them for greater responsibilities, Jesus set an example that we can imitate in our own lives.

LEARNING FROM JESUS’ FINAL 40 DAYS ON EARTH

• Jesus spent his final 40 days on earth teaching and encouraging his disciples (Acts 1:3).
• He appeared multiple times to various individuals, offering convincing proof of his resurrection, which transformed his disciples from grief-stricken to joyful Kingdom preachers.

ENCOURAGE OTHERS

• Jesus saw the grief of his disciples as a natural response to loss and used his resurrection to encourage them.
• He appeared to Mary Magdalene, the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, and the apostle Peter, offering them comfort and empathy.
• Empathy is key: Jesus observed Mary’s distress and spoke to her with care, helping her through her grief and giving her an important assignment (John 20:17, 18).
• Imitate Jesus by being observant and empathetic, listening attentively to others’ struggles and offering encouragement to help them keep serving Jehovah.
• Example: Jocelyn was encouraged by a brother and his wife, who listened and reassured her, helping her regain her desire to serve Jehovah after a family tragedy.

REASON ON THE SCRIPTURES

• Jesus helped his disciples understand the Scriptures by asking questions and reasoning with them, especially about the necessity of his suffering (Luke 24:18-27).
• He used the Scriptures to explain the prophecies about the Messiah and clarified misunderstandings.
• Imitate Jesus by asking thoughtful questions to draw out others' concerns and then helping them apply Bible principles in their lives.
• Example: Nortey, a young Bible student in Ghana, was helped by his teacher to reason on Matthew 10:16, leading him to firm decisions despite family opposition.

HELP MEN QUALIFY TO BECOME “GIFTS IN MEN”

• Jesus didn’t do everything himself; he trained others to take on responsibilities, such as preaching and teaching, and he entrusted them with leadership.
• Jesus gave frank but loving counsel, helping his disciples focus on shepherding and Kingdom work rather than personal careers or positions (John 21:15-22).
• Elders should follow Jesus’ example by training younger men, providing loving counsel, and helping them qualify for greater responsibilities.
• Example: Patrick, a young brother, benefited from kind counsel about humility and service, leading to his appointment as an elder in his early 20s.
• Elders delegate responsibilities and express confidence in younger brothers, allowing them to gain experience and grow (Philippians 2:19-22).

FOLLOW JESUS’ EXAMPLE

• Jesus used his final days to teach, encourage, and train others, showing how to motivate others and help them grow spiritually.
• We can imitate him by helping others understand the Scriptures, offering encouragement, and training them for greater responsibilities in Jehovah’s service.
• Jesus’ promise: “I am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of things” (Matthew 28:20).

Thank you for reading,
-Soli Jehova Gloria (1 Corinthians 10:31)