The term “one-hit wonder” is most commonly used to designate musicians who had only one popular song. For example, one list of “The Greatest One-Hit Wonders of All Time” ranks the 1996 Los del Rios’ song, “Macarena,” at number one.
For purposes of this series, a “one-hit wonder” is a Bible character who is mentioned once, sometimes not even by name. Some of these characters play critical parts in important events, and some just give us an interesting glimpse into their world.
Because little is known about these minor characters, it is necessary to give them personalities that would be reasonable for the situation, then concentrate the episode of the Eyewitness Bible Series around events portrayed in the Bible.
As we often caution, we are not trying to add to what the Bible says; we are simply trying to add context that will help you understand the Bible better. We invite you to read the applicable Scriptures for these stories so you will know exactly what the Bible says.
Just as some one-hit wonder songs are a bit whimsical. Perhaps you will find some of these stories to be the same way. I hope you enjoy them, and learn some unexpected things.
Luke is the only Gospel writer to include this story of the two believers walking to Emmaus. It is a testament to his desire to exhaust all reliable resources in writing about Jesus to Theophilus as discussed in Luke 1:1-4. It is quite possible Luke talked directly to Cleopas about this story because it has such depth and detail.
It is not possible to be entirely certain about the timing of the resurrection story, but John 20:11-18 indicates Mary Magdalene was the first to see Jesus after his resurrection. John follows that event by saying Jesus met with his disciples.
Luke tells the story of Jesus meeting the two on the road to Emmaus, followed by them joining the disciples, and Jesus meeting with all of them. From these two accounts, it might be surmised that Jesus met with Mary Magdalene first, the disciples on the road to Emmaus next, and then with his apostles and other believers.
