1 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb.
2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.”
3 So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb.
4 Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.
5 And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in.
6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there,
7 and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself.
8 Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed;
9 for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead.
10 Then the disciples went back to their homes.
11 But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb.
12 And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet.
13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.”
14 Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus.
15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.”
16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.”
17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
20 Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”
22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.
23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came.
25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.”
27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.”
28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”
29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book.
31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
The True Meaning of John 20
This chapter of the Gospel of John provides a powerful account of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the central event of the Christian faith. The author, John, was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus and an eyewitness to the remarkable occurrences described in this passage.
The chapter begins with Mary Magdalene’s discovery of the empty tomb, leading to a series of profound encounters that would forever transform the lives of Jesus’ followers. As we delve into this sacred text, the risen Christ would instill hope, faith, and a renewed purpose in those who had once been devastated by his death on the cross with his appearance and words.
Throughout this passage, we will see echoes of Jesus’ own teachings, as well as connections to other pivotal moments in the biblical narrative, such as the creation account in Genesis and the prophetic visions of the Old Testament. These interwoven threads serve to underscore the significance of this momentous event, which stands as the culmination of God’s plan for the redemption of humanity.
John 20:1-10
Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb of Jesus in John 20:1-10. The passage begins with Mary arriving at the tomb early in the morning while it was still dark. The mention of the darkness not only sets the scene of the early hour but also symbolically represents the spiritual darkness that still enveloped the disciples following Jesus’ crucifixion. Mary’s visit to the tomb was a poignant display of her love and devotion to Jesus, despite his death. She noticed that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance of the tomb, and assuming that someone had taken away the body of Jesus, she ran to inform Peter and another disciple, probably John, that the Lord’s body was missing.
This event is crucial in the narrative of the resurrection, as it sets the disciples on a path to discovering the truth of Jesus’ victory over death. Mary Magdalene’s presence at the tomb signifies the important role of women in the life and ministry of Jesus. Throughout the gospels, we see women like Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of Jesus, and others who were devoted followers and witnesses to Jesus’ teachings and miracles. God highlights the value and significance of women in His kingdom and the pivotal role they play in spreading the good news by choosing Mary Magdalene as one of the first witnesses to the empty tomb.
When Peter and the other disciple heard Mary’s news, they both ran to the tomb. The other disciple arrived first but waited for Peter before entering. This detail showcases the different personalities of the disciples – one impulsive and the other more contemplative. Upon entering the tomb, the disciples saw the linen cloths lying there but did not find the body of Jesus. This detail is significant because the presence of the linen cloths left behind indicated that Jesus had not been stolen, as grave robbers would not have taken the time to unwrap the body but would have taken the entire body with the cloths. The orderly arrangement of the linen clothes suggested a deliberate and miraculous event had taken place.
The account of the empty tomb in John 20:1-10 is a powerful demonstration of God’s sovereignty and His ability to bring forth life from death. It sets the stage for the disciples’ eventual understanding of Jesus’ resurrection and victory over sin and death. The details provided in this passage emphasize the importance of eyewitness accounts in validating the reality of Jesus’ resurrection. We, as Christians, can draw strength from this event, knowing that just as Jesus conquered death, we too have the hope of eternal life through Him. This account also foreshadows Jesus’ appearances to his disciples in the following verses, highlighting the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ.
John 20:11-18
Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Jesus in John 20:11-18. This passage begins with Mary standing outside the tomb weeping. Mary had been one of the devoted followers of Jesus and had witnessed His crucifixion. She had come to the tomb early in the morning, only to find the stone rolled away and the body of Jesus missing. Overwhelmed with grief, Mary was convinced that someone had taken the body of Jesus. Mary saw two angels in white sitting where Jesus’ body had been as she lingered near the tomb. They asked her why she was crying, to which she responded that they had taken her Lord away, and she didn’t know where they had put Him. At this point, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not recognize Him. Jesus also asked her why she was crying, and whom she was seeking, assuming that He was the gardener.
It is when Jesus speaks her name, “Mary,” that she recognizes Him. The power of that moment cannot be overstated. The love and compassion in Jesus’ voice as He calls her by name cuts through her grief and confusion, and she comprehends that her Teacher, her Lord, is truly alive. This encounter with the risen Christ is a profound moment of personal revelation for Mary Magdalene.
This part of the Gospel emphasizes the intimate and personal relationship Jesus has with His followers. He knows each of them by name and meets them in their individual sorrow and confusion. Mary’s interaction with Jesus after His resurrection demonstrates His care and compassion for those who are mourning and seeking Him. It serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus is not distant or unapproachable but is actively present and engaged with His followers.
It is notable that Mary Magdalene is the first person to see the resurrected Jesus in the Gospel of John. This choice by the Gospel writer is significant because it elevates the role of women in the narrative of Jesus’ resurrection. Mary Magdalene being the first witness to the resurrection underscores the revolutionary nature of Jesus’ teachings and actions in a society where women’s testimony was often disregarded.
The encounter between Jesus and Mary Magdalene also points to the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise of eternal life. Through His resurrection, Jesus conquers death and offers the hope of new life to all who believe in Him. Mary’s experience serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ commission to His disciples to go forth and proclaim the good news of salvation to all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). The account of Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus in John 20:11-18 provides a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. It highlights the personal nature of Jesus’ relationship with His followers and serves as a reminder of His compassion, presence, and victory over death. Mary Magdalene’s role as the first witness to the resurrection underscores the inclusive and revolutionary nature of Jesus’ ministry, which transcends social norms and welcomes all who seek Him.
John 20:19-23
We witness a profound and pivotal moment in the aftermath of Jesus’ resurrection in John 20:19-23. The disciples are gathered together in fear behind locked doors when suddenly, Jesus appears among them. His first words to them are, “Peace be with you!” This greeting is not merely a customary hello; it carries deep significance. Jesus is offering them not just a superficial peace but the peace that surpasses all understanding, the peace that can only come from being in the presence of the resurrected Lord. This greeting also serves to reassure the disciples, who were undoubtedly filled with fear and confusion at the recent events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
Jesus then shows the disciples his hands and his side, bearing the wounds from the crucifixion. This act identifies him as the same Jesus who was crucified, now miraculously alive. His scars serve as a testament to his sacrifice for humanity’s sins and a reminder of the depth of his love for us. This moment underscores the continuity between the Jesus they knew before his death and the Jesus standing before them after his resurrection.
The response of the disciples to seeing the risen Jesus varies. They are overjoyed when they see the Lord, reaffirming their faith and hope in him. However, Thomas, one of the disciples, is not present at this encounter. When the others tell him about seeing Jesus, he expresses doubt and declares that he will not believe unless he sees the nail marks in Jesus’ hands and puts his hand into Jesus’ side. Thomas’ doubt is a common human reaction when faced with something as incomprehensible as a resurrection. His skepticism serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and the need for tangible evidence to strengthen belief.
Jesus did not condemn Thomas for his doubt but instead appeared before him a week later, inviting him to see and touch his wounds, leading Thomas to proclaim in John 20:28, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus responds by saying, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” This statement speaks to the nature of faith – that it transcends physical proof and is rooted in trust and belief in the unseen. Jesus commissions his disciples in verses 21-23, breathing on them and saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” This act symbolizes the empowerment of the disciples to carry on the mission of spreading the good news of salvation and forgiveness. The giving of the Holy Spirit equips them for this task and signifies the beginning of the church as the body of Christ on earth. The authority to forgive sins bestowed upon them underscores the importance of forgiveness in the Christian faith and the role believers have in extending God’s forgiveness to others. John 20:19-23 captures the essence of the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus and the transformative impact it had on his disciples. It emphasizes the themes of peace, faith, doubt, belief, empowerment, and forgiveness – all crucial elements of the Christian faith. The encounter between Jesus and his disciples serves as a reminder of the power of the resurrection to change lives, instill faith, and commission believers to continue his work in the world.
John 20:24-29
The story of “Doubting Thomas” in John 20:24-29 presents one of the disciples who had not been present when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples after His resurrection. This passage is rich in both narrative and theological significance. Thomas is skeptical about the news of Jesus’ resurrection in the first section of this passage. He expresses his doubts by stating that unless he sees and touches the wounds of Jesus, he will not believe. This doubt is a reflection of human nature – the need for tangible evidence to believe in something extraordinary. Thomas serves as a representative of all who struggle with doubts and need visible proof to strengthen their faith. This part of the story emphasizes the idea that faith does not always come easily, and it is normal to have moments of uncertainty.
The subsequent section portrays Jesus appearing to the disciples, including Thomas, and inviting him to touch His wounds to dispel his doubts. Jesus does not rebuke Thomas for his lack of faith but instead offers him the evidence he requires. This gesture demonstrates God’s understanding and compassion towards our weaknesses and doubts. It underscores the importance of seeking a deeper relationship with God, where we can bring our doubts and uncertainties, and find reassurance in His presence. Jesus’ response to Thomas shows His desire for all to come to faith, even those who struggle to believe without seeing.
The climax of this passage occurs when Thomas, upon seeing Jesus and His wounds, confesses his belief by exclaiming, “My Lord and my God!” This powerful declaration signifies Thomas’ transformation from doubt to faith. It is a crucial moment in the narrative as it highlights the significance of encountering the risen Christ and the profound impact it can have on a person’s faith. Thomas’ confession serves as a reminder that encountering Jesus personally can lead to a profound revelation that solidifies one’s faith.
The passage concludes with Jesus pronouncing a blessing on those who believe without seeing. This statement is not only directed towards Thomas but serves as a broader message to all future believers. It underscores the importance of faith that transcends tangible proof and is rooted in a spiritual connection with God. It is a call to all believers to have faith in the unseen, to trust in the promises of God, and to find joy and blessing in believing without the need for physical evidence. This passage reinforces the themes of faith, doubt, and the transformative power of encountering the resurrected Christ in the larger context of the Bible. It echoes Jesus’ words to Thomas that blessed are those who believe without seeing—a testament to the enduring nature of faith that goes beyond physical sight. This story of Doubting Thomas serves as a reminder that even in our moments of doubt, Jesus meets us where we are and invites us into a deeper relationship with Him, ultimately leading us to a confession of faith and a recognition of His divinity.
John 20:30-31
The author makes two important points in John 20:30-31. First, the significance of the numerous signs that Jesus performed in the presence of His disciples, which John refers to as “signs.” Second, the purpose for which John wrote his gospel – that those who read it and believe in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, may have eternal life.
Starting with the first point, the signs that Jesus performed were not merely miracles but had a deeper spiritual significance. Each sign pointed towards a greater truth about who Jesus was and what His mission on earth entailed. Throughout the Gospel of John, we see various signs performed by Jesus such as turning water into wine (John 2:1-11), healing the royal official’s son (John 4:46-54), feeding the five thousand (John 6:1-15), walking on water (John 6:16-24), and raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44). These signs were meant to reveal Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and to increase faith in Him among both His disciples and those who witnessed these miracles.
Moving on to the purpose of John writing his gospel, it is clear that he had a specific intention in mind. John wanted his readers to not only know about the signs and miracles of Jesus but also to understand the deeper spiritual truth behind them. He wanted to strengthen the faith of believers and to lead unbelievers to faith in Jesus Christ. One could have eternal life by believing in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. This theme of eternal life through belief in Jesus is central to the Gospel of John and is reiterated multiple times throughout the text (John 3:16, John 5:24, John 6:40). John 20:30-31 serves as a summary of the entire Gospel of John, highlighting the signs performed by Jesus and emphasizing the importance of belief in Him for eternal life. The signs were not just displays of power but were meant to point people to a deeper faith in Jesus as the Son of God. The timeless message of these verses continues to resonate with readers today, calling them to have faith in Jesus Christ for the gift of eternal life.
After John 20
Our Lord Jesus Christ brings hope and salvation to all who believe in Him through a powerful resurrection witnessed in this chapter. Through His victory over death, Jesus demonstrates His divine power and fulfills the prophecies of the Scriptures. Reflect on the miraculous events of this chapter as we are reminded of the eternal life that awaits all who put their faith in Him. We should carry the joy and wonder of the resurrection with us as we prepare to delve into the next chapter. Jesus, the Son of God, conquered death so that we may have life everlasting; let us hold fast to this truth. May we continue to seek Him with all our hearts, knowing that He is the way, the truth, and the life.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.