Two Disciples
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Two Disciples" is often used to refer to specific pairs of followers of Jesus Christ mentioned in the New Testament. These pairs are significant in the narrative of the Gospels and the early Christian church, highlighting themes of faith, mission, and the unfolding revelation of Jesus as the Messiah.

1. The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35):

One of the most notable accounts involving two disciples is the account of the road to Emmaus, found in the Gospel of Luke. After the resurrection of Jesus, two disciples were traveling to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. As they walked, they discussed the recent events of Jesus' crucifixion and the reports of His resurrection.

While they were talking, Jesus Himself approached and began traveling with them, but they were kept from recognizing Him. Jesus asked them what they were discussing, and they recounted the events surrounding His death and the empty tomb. Jesus then explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself, beginning with Moses and all the Prophets.

As they reached Emmaus, the disciples urged Jesus to stay with them. During the meal, when Jesus broke the bread, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him, but He disappeared from their sight. Filled with joy and amazement, they returned to Jerusalem to share the news with the other disciples, affirming the truth of the resurrection.

2. The Sending of the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-24):

Another significant mention of two disciples is in the context of Jesus sending out the seventy-two. In Luke 10:1, it is recorded, "After this, the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place He was about to visit." This mission was a precursor to the Great Commission, emphasizing the importance of spreading the Gospel message.

The two-by-two arrangement served several purposes: it provided mutual support and encouragement, fulfilled the requirement of two witnesses for a testimony to be considered valid (Deuteronomy 19:15), and demonstrated the communal nature of the Christian mission. Jesus instructed them to heal the sick and proclaim, "The kingdom of God has come near to you" (Luke 10:9).

Upon their return, the seventy-two rejoiced, saying, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name" (Luke 10:17). Jesus affirmed their success and reminded them of the greater joy of having their names written in heaven.

3. The Preparation of the Passover (Mark 14:12-16; Luke 22:7-13):

In preparation for the Last Supper, Jesus sent two of His disciples to make arrangements for the Passover meal. In Mark 14:13-15 , it is written, "So He sent two of His disciples and told them, 'Go into the city, and a man carrying a jug of water will meet you. Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house, "The Teacher asks: Where is My guest room, where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?" And he will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.'"

This task was crucial for the unfolding of the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. The obedience and trust of these two disciples in following Jesus' instructions exemplify the faith and dedication required of His followers.

4. The Witness of the Resurrection (John 20:1-10):

In the Gospel of John, two disciples, Peter and "the other disciple, the one Jesus loved" (commonly understood to be John), are central figures in the discovery of the empty tomb. Mary Magdalene informed them that the stone had been removed from the tomb, prompting both to run to the site. John 20:4-5 states, "The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down and looked in at the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in."

Peter entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths, and the face cloth that had been on Jesus' head, folded up in a place by itself. The other disciple then entered, saw, and believed, though they did not yet understand the Scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead.

These accounts of two disciples in the New Testament highlight the importance of companionship, witness, and mission in the life of believers. They serve as examples of faith, obedience, and the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ.
Two Denarii
Top of Page
Top of Page