Fifth Appearance

Fifth appearance (John 20: 19,25)

The Lord appeared the fifth time on Easter evening itself when the disciples were gather together in a room in Jerusalem. The Lord came into the room, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst. His first words were, “Peace be unto you” (John 20: 19). He repeated these words in verse 21, thus showing us that it is only by maintaining our peace that we can continue to experience His power of resurrection. The enemy is bent upon disturbing our peace. To this end he bring into our hearts all kinds of fears, doubts and subtle temptations of the flesh. But as humble ourselves and keep on claiming the cleansing power of His precious blood we can enjoy His great peace which passeth all understanding. God’s word says, “Great peace have they which love thy law and nothing shall offend them.” (Psa. 119: 165) and “the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shorty” (Rom. 16: 20). The more we have peace the more can we enjoy victory over attack of the enemy. But we must exercise our faith more strongly to make this peace reign in our heart and flow like a river, not allowing the enemy to rob us of our peace. In case we have to put right anything with God and man we should do so immediately by His grace and with humility. It is also by this growing, multiplying inward spiritual peace that we can be sure of His will, because the work of righteousness is peace (Isa. 32: 17). Then again, our Lord told the disciples in John 20: 21, “….as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you”. Only when we have this inward peace shall we be willing to go anywhere He may send us, and be prepared without any question to go give Him all what He demands for His glory. When He had said this to disciples He breathed on them and said, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost” (vs.22). As we obey Him He anoints us afresh with the Holy Spirit to help us carry out His commands joyfully.