After Jesus rose from the dead, several significant events took place over the following 40 days before His ascension to heaven:
- The Resurrection and Empty Tomb: Jesus rose on the third day after His crucifixion. An earthquake occurred, an angel rolled away the stone from the tomb entrance, and the Roman guards witnessed these events. Women, including Mary Magdalene, found the tomb empty and were told by an angel that Jesus had risen
- Appearances to Individuals and Groups: Jesus appeared multiple times to His followers in different places and ways. Notably, He first appeared to Mary Magdalene, then to two disciples on the road to Emmaus who initially did not recognize Him, and later to the eleven apostles and other followers. These appearances confirmed His resurrection and helped His disciples understand the fulfillment of Scripture
- Instruction and Commissioning: During these 40 days, Jesus instructed His disciples and prepared them for their future mission. He commanded them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit, which would empower them for their missionary work
- Ascension to Heaven: After about 40 days, Jesus ascended to heaven in the presence of His disciples. This event marked the conclusion of His earthly post-resurrection appearances and the beginning of the apostles' ministry empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
- Pentecost and the Holy Spirit: Ten days after the ascension, on the feast of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples, enabling them to begin spreading Jesus’ teachings and establishing the early Christian church
In summary, after Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared multiple times to His followers, taught them, commissioned them to spread His message, ascended to heaven, and then the Holy Spirit empowered His disciples to carry on His mission
