Emmaus is mentioned in the New Testament in Luke 24 as the location where the resurrected Jesus appeared to two of His followers. It was a village about seven miles from Jerusalem, and its significance lies in the powerful encounter that took place there on the day of Jesus’ resurrection.
Two disciples were walking to Emmaus, discussing the recent events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and the reports of His resurrection. Jesus Himself joined them on the road, but they did not recognize Him. Luke 24:17–18 describes the scene:
“And He said to them, ‘What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?’ Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, ‘Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened there in these days?’”
Jesus gently rebuked them for their slowness to believe the prophets and explained how the Scriptures pointed to His suffering and glory. Luke 24:27 says:
“And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.”
When they reached Emmaus, they urged Him to stay. As He broke bread with them, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. Then He vanished from their sight. Luke 24:32 records their reaction:
“Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?”
They immediately returned to Jerusalem to report the encounter to the other disciples.
Emmaus represents revelation, restoration, and the transforming power of Christ’s presence. The road to Emmaus reminds believers that Jesus walks with them, even when they do not recognize Him, and that Scripture is the key to understanding His mission and identity.
