What Happened After the Resurrection?
Easter morning isn’t the end of the story—it’s the beginning of the next chapter in the story. So what happened after the resurrection of Jesus? Why is it important?
After Jesus rose from the dead, the Bible records a powerful series of events that unfolded over the next 50 days. These moments are filled with meaning and purpose, and they show us how Jesus continued to teach, guide, and prepare His followers before returning to heaven.
Let’s walk through what happened after the Resurrection and why it still matters today.
The Resurrection and the Biblical Feast Timeline
To understand the timeline, we can look at the spring feasts in the Bible:
- Passover – Jesus was crucified.
- Feast of Unleavened Bread – Jesus was buried.
- Feast of First Fruits – Jesus rose from the dead.
- Pentecost – Fifty days after Passover, the Holy Spirit was given to the Church.
These feast days aren’t just Old Testament history—they’re part of God’s plan, and played out in the life and death of Jesus.
What Happened in the First 3 Days After Jesus’ Death?
A lot happened in just three days! Here are the key moments:
Jesus Rose from the Dead
There was an earthquake, and an angel rolled away the stone. The Roman guards witnessed it all. (Matthew 28:1–4)
The Angel’s Message
Mary Magdalene and the other women came to the tomb and were greeted by an angel who said, “He is risen!” (Matthew 28:5–8)
Jesus Appeared to Mary
Mary Magdalene saw Jesus alive and ran to tell the disciples. (John 20:11–18)
Peter and John Rushed to the Tomb
They found it just as the women said—Jesus was gone, the tomb was empty! (John 20:1–10)
The Guards Spread a Lie
The guards reported the Resurrection to the chief priests, who paid them to spread a false story. (Matthew 28:11–15)
What Happened in the 40 Days After the Resurrection?
Jesus didn’t just disappear after rising from the dead. For 40 days, He appeared to many people, proving He was alive and preparing His followers to fulfill their callings.
The Road to Emmaus
Two followers met Jesus on their walk home. They didn’t recognize Him until He broke bread with them. (Luke 24:13–35)
Jesus Appeared to 10 Disciples
That evening, Jesus appeared to His disciples—except Thomas. (John 20:19–25)
Jesus Appeared to Thomas
A week later, Thomas saw Jesus and touched His wounds. (John 20:26–30)
Breakfast by the Sea
Jesus appeared to 7 disciples while they were fishing. He cooked breakfast and spoke to Peter. (John 21:1–19)
Jesus Appeared to Over 500 People
He didn’t just appear to the disciples. More than 500 people saw Him alive! (1 Corinthians 15:6)
The Great Commission
Before ascending to heaven, Jesus gave His followers a mission: Go and make disciples. (Mark 16:14–18, Acts 1:1–8)
What Happened After the Ascension?
The Ascension
Jesus returned to heaven while His disciples watched. Angels told them He would come again in the same way they saw Him leave. (Acts 1:9–11)
7 Days Later: Pentecost
The Holy Spirit Arrived
On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out. The disciples began preaching boldly, and thousands believed. (Acts 2:1–4)
Why This Timeline Matters
Many people celebrate Easter Sunday and then move on—but the 50 days after the Resurrection are packed with life-changing moments.
Jesus didn’t just rise—He stayed. He taught, encouraged, and prepared His followers for the mission ahead.
Let’s Do the Same
This year, let’s not let this season slip by.
- What if we used the time between Easter and Pentecost to grow in faith and encourage others?
- What if each day, we reached out to someone, offering encouragement, and sharing the hope of the resurrection?
Make these 50 days count—for eternity.
Want to Teach This to Your Kids or Class?
Check out our Bible timeline studies and printables to help families, churches, and schools bring these powerful stories to life—without stress.
Perfect for teaching on the go, saving time, and making the Bible stick.
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