The NIV 365 Day Devotional

Why Did the Disciples Believe That Jesus Would Return?

As the disciples stared in shock at the sky after Jesus ascended into heaven, two men suddenly appeared and promised that Jesus would one day return. What evidence made the disciples believe such a claim, and how did that belief change their lives?

The primary evidence came from Jesus’ own words: “For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done” (Matthew 16:27). His claims are supported by the Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would return to Earth to reclaim his kingdom and judge humanity (cf. Daniel 7:13–14). If Jesus was the Messiah, as the disciples believed, then he would certainly return.

Jesus also claimed that on the day of judgment, those who follow him will rejoice in their salvation. In that day, Jesus will judge all people (see Matthew 25:31–46). Jesus’ assertions are reinforced by Stephen’s vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God (see Acts 7:55–56) and by the descriptions of the Messiah’s return in Revelation 1:7, 3:21 and 22:12.

After all the disciples had experienced—from Jesus’ miracles to his stunning resurrection and subsequent ascension—they felt convinced that the men appearing beside them were telling the truth. Consequently, they immediately began to spread the good news of Jesus and his certain return, risking their very lives to defend what they believed to be true.

Taken from the NIV Case for Christ New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs.