Receive the Holy Spirit

In John account of the resurrection, Jesus' appearance to the disciples serves two purposes. First, He reminds them of His promise, given to them at His farewell discourse, to give them His peace. But this peace isn't simply a temporary cease of conflict with men, but a eternal cessation of conflict with God.

Second, Jesus tells His disciples that they will be sent by Him just as the Father sent Him. Now, this doesn't mean they will continue the work of Jesus, but rather serve as witnesses of the continued work of Jesus. But how will He empower them to do this? By giving them the Holy Spirit who will descend upon them in power at Pentecost.