The answer is: 40

Acts 1:3 - there are no less than 13 different appearances of Jesus to his disciples during these 40 days.

Isn’t it fascinating that after his resurrection, Jesus didn’t just vanish into thin air? Instead, he lingered around for 40 whole days! This time was crucial—not just for his disciples but for the foundations of what would become the Christian faith. Over these days, Jesus appeared to his followers numerous times, ranging from a casual chat while cooking fish to intense moments where he revealed profound spiritual truths.

Acts 1:3 mentions that he spoke of the kingdom of God during these encounters, showing a pivotal blend of intimacy and instruction. How cool is it that Jesus took the time to drop hints about a spiritual realm after he had just conquered death itself? It’s during these moments that the disciples received the commission to spread his teachings, a stepping stone towards forming early Christian communities.

Interestingly, the number 40 appears several times throughout the Bible. Remember Moses and the Hebrews wandering in the desert for 40 years? Or when Jesus himself spent 40 days fasting and praying before beginning his ministry? This recurring number signifies a time of preparation and transformation, hinting that those days post-resurrection were as much for the disciples' growth and readiness as they were for Jesus to share his continued presence.

From these appearances arose lessons about faith and purpose, a breadcrumb trail leading to their mission that shaped history. The early disciples' fearless spread of his teachings set the stage for something monumental, transforming a small band of followers into a global movement.