Encounter Series for December

Day 1

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection

 DA Reference: 755-757

This day likely explores the significance of the Sabbath, a day of rest and reflection. It may also delve
into the emotional turmoil of the disciples as they grapple with the death of their beloved leader.
The day culminates in the anticipation of the resurrection, a hope that is both fragile and powerful.

Day 2

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 758, 759

This day may continue to explore the disciples’ emotions and experiences as they await the
fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to rise from the dead. It may also delve into the prophecies and
expectations surrounding the Messiah’s resurrection.

Day 3

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 760, 761

This day may explore the significance of the Sabbath as a day of preparation and anticipation. It may
also delve deeper into the prophecies and expectations surrounding the Messiah’s resurrection,
highlighting the tension between hope and despair.

Day 4

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 762-764

This day may explore the spiritual significance of the Sabbath and its connection to the resurrection.
It may also delve into the role of faith and trust in the midst of uncertainty and doubt.

Day 5

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 769-770

This day may continue to explore the theme of hope and anticipation. It may also delve into the role
of prayer and meditation in spiritual growth and renewal.

Day 6

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 771-773
This day may explore the significance of the Sabbath as a time for spiritual renewal and growth. It
may also delve into the importance of community and fellowship, particularly in times of trial and
tribulation.

Day 7

Focus: The Sabbath and the Resurrection (Continued)

 DA Reference: 774-775

This day may conclude the week-long focus on the Sabbath and the resurrection by exploring the
ultimate fulfilment of God’s promises. It may delve into the significance of Jesus’ resurrection as the
cornerstone of the Christian faith.

Day 8: The Guards at the Tomb

 Bible Reading: Matthew 27:54-66

 DA Reference: 776-778

This day focuses on the efforts of the Jewish leaders to prevent the theft of Jesus’ body. They bribe
Roman guards to watch the tomb. This event underscores the importance of the resurrection and the
lengths to which the religious authorities went to discredit it.

Day 9: The Resurrection and the Women at the Tomb

 Bible Reading: Matthew 28:2-4, 9-15

 DA Reference: 779, 780

The women who had come to anoint Jesus’ body find the tomb empty. An angel appears to them,
proclaiming that Jesus has risen. This event marks the beginning of the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise
to rise from the dead.

Day 10: The Disciples' Doubt and Fear

 DA Reference: 781-785

On this day, we delve into the initial reactions of the disciples to the news of Jesus' resurrection. They
are filled with doubt, fear, and confusion. The text explores their emotional turmoil and how they
grapple with the reality of Jesus' death and subsequent resurrection.

Day 11: The Disciples' Encounter with the Risen Christ

 DA Reference: 786, 787

Following the initial shock and disbelief, the disciples have a profound encounter with the
resurrected Jesus. This encounter transforms their lives, filling them with hope, joy, and a renewed
sense of purpose.

Day 12: The Empty Tomb

 Bible Reading: Matthew 28:1, 5-8; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-10

 DA Reference: 788

The day focuses on the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John. This event
serves as the first tangible evidence of Jesus' resurrection.
Day 13: Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

 Bible Reading: John 20:11-18

 DA Reference: 788

Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene at the tomb. She initially mistakes Him for the gardener, but He
calls her by name, and she recognizes Him. This encounter marks the first appearance of the
resurrected Jesus.

Day 14: Jesus Appears to the Disciples

 Bible Reading: John 20:19-23; Luke 24:36-43

 DA Reference: 788

Jesus appears to the disciples, who are gathered behind locked doors. He shows them the wounds in
His hands and feet, and breathes on them, imparting the Holy Spirit. This encounter strengthens
their faith and empowers them to be His witnesses.

Day 15: Jesus Appears to the Disciples on the Road to Emmaus

 Bible Reading: Luke 24:13-32

 DA Reference: 795, 796, 799, 800

Two disciples are walking to Emmaus, feeling discouraged after Jesus’ crucifixion. Jesus joins them on
their journey, explaining the Scriptures and revealing Himself to them in the breaking of bread. This
encounter highlights Jesus’ compassion, His ability to teach, and His power to transform lives.

Day 16: Jesus Appears to the Disciples in Jerusalem

 Bible Reading: Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-23

 DA Reference: 801, 803, 804

Jesus appears to the ten disciples who are gathered in Jerusalem. He shows them the wounds in His
hands and feet, assuring them of His resurrection. This encounter fills the disciples with joy, peace,
and a renewed sense of purpose.

Day 17: Jesus Appears to Thomas

 Bible Reading: John 20:24-29

 DA Reference: 805, 806

Thomas, one of the twelve disciples, doubts the resurrection of Jesus. When Jesus appears to him,
He invites Thomas to touch His wounds, dispelling his doubts and strengthening his faith.

Day 18-19: Jesus Appears to the Disciples at the Sea of Galilee

 Bible Reading: John 21

 DA Reference: 807, 808, 811, 812, 815-817

Jesus appears to Peter and the other disciples as they are fishing on the Sea of Galilee. He prepares a
meal for them and restores Peter to his ministry. This encounter emphasizes the importance of
forgiveness, restoration, and the ongoing work of the church.
Day 20: The Great Commission

 Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-20

 DA Reference: 818, 819, 820-822, 823-825

Jesus gives the Great Commission to His disciples, commanding them to go and make disciples of all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to
obey all that He has commanded. He assures them that He will be with them always, to the very end
of the age.

Day 21: Jesus Ascends to Heaven

 Bible Reading: Luke 24:50-53

 DA Reference: 829, 830, 831, 832

Jesus leads His disciples to the Mount of Olives. He blesses them and then ascends to heaven, while
the disciples watch in amazement. As He ascends, a cloud receives Him from their sight. Two angels
appear and tell the disciples that Jesus will return in the same way as He ascended.

Day 22-23: The Promise of the Holy Spirit and the Early Church

 DA Reference: 833-86

These days focus on the promise of the Holy Spirit, the outpouring of the Spirit on Pentecost, and the
growth of the early church. They might also explore the significance of the ascension and the hope of
Jesus’ return.

Day 24-25: The Early Church and the Spread of the Gospel

 DA Reference: 833-86 (Continued)

These days delve deeper into the early church’s experiences, challenges, and triumphs. They may
highlight the courage and dedication of the early Christians as they spread the gospel to different
cultures and societies.

Day 26: The Persecution of the Church

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day focuses on the persecution faced by early Christians. It highlights the courage and resilience
of believers who remained steadfast in their faith despite facing opposition and martyrdom.

Day 27: The Power of the Holy Spirit

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day explores the powerful work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. It highlights the gifts of
the Spirit, such as prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues. It also emphasizes the importance of
the Spirit in empowering believers to live a godly life.

Day 28: The Growth of the Church

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day focuses on the rapid growth of the early church. It highlights the impact of the apostles’
preaching, the healing miracles performed, and the power of the Holy Spirit in attracting new
converts.

Day 29: The Book of Acts

 Bible Reading: Acts 1-28

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day delves into the book of Acts, which chronicles the early history of the Christian church. It
explores the lives of the apostles, their missionary journeys, and the challenges they faced.

Day 30: The Persecution of the Church (Continued)

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day continues to explore the persecution faced by early Christians. It highlights the courage and
resilience of believers who remained steadfast in their faith despite facing opposition and
martyrdom.

Day 31: The Hope of Christ’s Return

 DA Reference: (Specific references may vary)

This day focuses on the hope of Christ’s return. It explores the biblical prophecies concerning the
second coming of Christ and the new heavens and new earth. It also emphasizes the importance of
being prepared for His return.