Study 3: The Victory of Jesus

When we think of victory, our minds often goto images of conquest and glory. But what does victory look like for Jesus? The answer might surprise you. As you journey through Holy Week toward Easter, we're inviting you to reconsider your understanding of what victory truly is by engaging with Jesus' resurrection appearances.

Learning Moment:

Always end by asking each other, "How are you going to apply what you learned?" A big part of discipleship (and any learning experience) is putting things into practice so make your applications practical! "I will do XYZ in this next week as a result of what I learned today!"

From the Episode:

The Kingdoms of the world vs the Kingdom of God

The crowds in Jerusalem knew what kind of victory they wanted. When given the option of freeing an imprisoned Jesus or someone else they chose Barabbas—a rebel leader—over Jesus. They wanted political revolution, freedom from Roman oppression, and a conquering Messiah. Victory was conquest and its glory. This left Jesus with the cross—a shocking defeat by worldly standards.

Jesus faced crucifixion—a barbaric death at the hands of imperial forces. To all witnesses that day, it appeared evil had won. The hope of Israel seemed lost. But in His death, something the world had never witnessed before happened: resurrection. This was God's definition of victory.

Victory Revealed: The Resurrection Appearances

Mary Magdalene: The First Witness

Early that Sunday morning, Mary came to the tomb expecting to find death. Instead, she encountered the risen Lord. When Jesus called her name, her grief turned to joy. The first revelation of victory came to a faithful woman who simply showed up in her sorrow. Through tears, she became the first evangelist of the resurrection.

The Road to Emmaus: Victory Hidden in Plain Sight

Two disciples walked away from Jerusalem, dejected and confused. Jesus joined their journey, though they didn't recognize Him. As He explained the Scriptures, their hearts burned within them, but victory was only recognized in the breaking of bread - an act that harkened back to the last supper. Sometimes, Jesus walks beside us in our disappointments, revealing His victory in ordinary moments.

Thomas: Victory That Transforms Doubt

Thomas insisted on physical proof of Jesus' resurrection. When Jesus appeared, inviting Thomas to touch His wounds, doubt transformed to profound faith. Thomas's declaration, "My Lord and my God," shows how victory conquers our deepest doubts. Jesus meets us in our questions and uses them to deepen our faith.

By the Sea of Tiberias: Victory Restores Purpose

Peter returned to fishing—his life before Jesus. There on familiar shores, the risen Lord appeared, providing a miraculous catch and restoration. Victory isn't just about the past being forgiven but about our future being reclaimed. Jesus' appearance by the sea reminds us that His victory gives us new purpose.

The Beloved Disciple: Victory Creates Lasting Witness

John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, became a powerful witness to Christ's victory. His testimony continues to draw people to faith centuries later. Victory isn't meant to be kept private but shared with the world. Our personal encounters with the risen Christ should inspire others to seek Him.

The True Nature of Victory

Victory was the defeat of evil, darkness, and death once and for all by Jesus in His death and subsequent resurrection. This victory didn't look like military conquest or political revolution. Instead, it appeared as an executed criminal emerging alive from a tomb, appearing to His followers, and commissioning them to share this good news.

Discussion and Application

• Where in your life have you defined victory by the world's standards rather than God's?

• Which resurrection appearance most resonates with your current spiritual journey?

• How might Jesus be appearing to you in unexpected ways today?

• What would it mean for you to live as though death has been defeated?