Luke 24:11

But their words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women.

Study Bible

But their words
This phrase refers to the testimony of the women who had visited Jesus' tomb and found it empty. In the original Greek, "words" is "rhemata," which can mean sayings or messages. The significance here is that the message of the resurrection was initially communicated through spoken testimony, highlighting the oral tradition of the early church. This underscores the importance of verbal witness in the spread of the Gospel, a practice that continues to be vital in Christian evangelism today.

seemed like nonsense
The Greek word used here is "leros," which can be translated as "idle talk" or "nonsense." This reflects the disciples' initial skepticism and disbelief. Historically, this reaction is understandable given the cultural and religious context of the time, where resurrection from the dead was an unprecedented claim. This skepticism also serves to authenticate the narrative, as it shows that even Jesus' closest followers struggled to comprehend the miraculous nature of the resurrection.

to them
This phrase personalizes the reaction, indicating that the disbelief was not just a general sentiment but was specific to the disciples. It highlights the human tendency to doubt extraordinary claims, especially when they defy natural understanding. This personal doubt is a relatable aspect of faith, reminding believers that even the most devout can struggle with doubt and disbelief.

and they did not believe
The Greek word for "believe" is "pisteuo," which means to have faith or trust. The disciples' lack of belief at this moment is significant because it contrasts with their later transformation after encountering the risen Christ. This transformation is a powerful testament to the reality of the resurrection and the work of the Holy Spirit in overcoming doubt and instilling faith.

the women
In the cultural context of the first century, women were not considered reliable witnesses. The fact that the Gospel accounts consistently highlight women as the first witnesses to the resurrection is a profound statement about the inclusivity of the Gospel message. It challenges societal norms and affirms the value and credibility of women in the early Christian community. This serves as an inspiration for the church today to uphold the dignity and contributions of all believers, regardless of gender.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Women
These are the women who visited Jesus' tomb and found it empty. They were the first to witness the resurrection and were tasked with sharing this news with the apostles.

2. The Apostles
The primary disciples of Jesus who were initially skeptical of the women's report about the resurrection.

3. The Empty Tomb
The place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion, which the women found empty, signifying His resurrection.

4. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

5. The Resurrection
The pivotal event of Jesus rising from the dead, which is central to Christian faith and the message the women were sharing.

Teaching Points

The Challenge of Faith
The apostles' initial disbelief highlights the human struggle to accept divine truths that defy natural understanding.

The Role of Women in the Gospel
The women were the first to witness and proclaim the resurrection, underscoring the important role women play in God's redemptive plan.

The Importance of Witness
The women's testimony, though initially dismissed, was crucial in spreading the news of the resurrection. Our witness, too, can impact others even if not immediately accepted.

Overcoming Skepticism
The apostles' journey from skepticism to faith encourages us to seek understanding and trust in God's promises, even when they seem improbable.

The Power of the Resurrection
The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, offering hope and assurance of eternal life. It calls us to live in the light of this transformative truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the initial disbelief of the apostles reflect our own struggles with faith in the face of seemingly impossible situations?

2. In what ways can we learn from the women's role in the resurrection account to be bold in sharing our faith?

3. How can the transformation of the apostles from disbelief to bold proclamation encourage us in our spiritual journey?

4. What are some modern-day "empty tomb" experiences where we might struggle to see God's hand at work?

5. How does the resurrection of Jesus provide hope and assurance in your daily life, and how can you share this with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 16:11
This verse also describes the disbelief of the disciples when they heard the women's report, highlighting a consistent theme of initial skepticism.

John 20:9
This verse explains that the disciples did not yet understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead, providing context for their disbelief.

Acts 2:24
Peter's sermon at Pentecost, where he affirms the resurrection, showing the transformation from disbelief to proclamation.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Paul’s summary of the gospel, emphasizing the death and resurrection of Jesus as foundational truths.