◄ John 20 ►
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Summary The Resurrection John 20 ushers in the victory of the resurrection, turning mourning into joy, doubt into faith, and fear into courage. This chapter underscores that Jesus, through His resurrection, inaugurated a new era of life, not just life after death, but a life of wholeness, purpose, and hope, that begins now and extends into eternity. It encourages us to move beyond the boundaries of doubt and fear, to embrace the new life that Jesus offers. Verses 1-10: The Empty Tomb Early in the morning, Mary Magdalene discovers that the stone has been removed from the tomb's entrance. She informs Simon Peter and John, who rush to the tomb. John outruns Peter, sees the burial linens, and waits outside. Peter arrives, enters the tomb, and sees the linens and the face cloth, which was folded neatly. John enters, sees, and believes, despite not yet understanding the scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead. Verses 11-18: Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene Mary stays outside the tomb, weeping, and sees two angels. They ask her why she weeps, and she responds that someone has taken away Jesus' body. Turning around, she sees Jesus but does not recognize Him until He calls her name. Jesus tells her not to cling to Him, as He has not yet ascended to the Father. Instead, He instructs her to tell His disciples of His impending ascension. Verses 19-23: Jesus Appears to His Disciples On the evening of the same day, Jesus appears to His disciples, who had locked themselves in for fear of the Jews. He shows them His hands and side, gives them peace, and commissions them to continue His work, breathing on them and saying, "Receive the Holy Spirit." Verses 24-29: Jesus and Thomas Thomas, who was not present when Jesus first appeared, refuses to believe until he can see and touch Jesus' wounds. Eight days later, Jesus appears again and invites Thomas to touch His wounds. Thomas believes and confesses Jesus as "my Lord and my God." Verses 30-31: The Purpose of John's Gospel John concludes by stating that while Jesus did many other signs, the ones recorded in the Gospel are there so that readers might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing, have life in His name. John 20 presents the momentous event of Jesus' resurrection, marking a new dawn of hope and victory over death. This chapter recounts the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene, the appearances of Jesus to His disciples, and the journey from doubt to faith for Thomas, one of the disciples. It also underlines the eyewitness testimony that forms the basis of the Gospel. Teaching Points The Empty Tomb John 20:1-10 describes Mary Magdalene's discovery of the empty tomb. This pivotal moment underscores the reality of the resurrection. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, 'They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have put Him!' (John 20:2). Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene In verses 11-18, Jesus reveals Himself to Mary Magdalene, highlighting the personal nature of His resurrection. Jesus said to her, 'Mary.' She turned and said to Him in Aramaic, 'Rabboni!' (which means Teacher) (John 20:16). The Disciples' Fear and Jesus' Peace Jesus appears to His disciples, offering peace and commissioning them. Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you' (John 20:21). Doubting Thomas Thomas' initial doubt and subsequent belief serve as a powerful testament to faith. Then Jesus told him, 'Because you have seen Me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed' (John 20:29). Purpose of John's Gospel The chapter concludes with the purpose of the Gospel. 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 (John 20:31). Practical Applications Embrace the Resurrection Live with the assurance and hope that the resurrection brings, knowing that death has been conquered. Seek Personal Encounters with Jesus Like Mary Magdalene, seek a personal relationship with the risen Christ through prayer and study of His Word. Share the Peace of Christ In a world filled with fear and uncertainty, be a bearer of Christ's peace to those around you. Strengthen Your Faith Use Thomas' story as a reminder to trust in Jesus even when you cannot see Him, and encourage others to do the same. Proclaim the Gospel Recognize the purpose of John's Gospel and commit to sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. People 1. Mary Magdalene Mary Magdalene is the first person mentioned in John 20. She goes to the tomb early on the first day of the week and finds it empty. She is a devoted follower of Jesus, and her encounter with the risen Christ is significant as she is the first to see Him after His resurrection (John 20:1, 11-18). 2. Simon Peter Simon Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is informed by Mary Magdalene about the empty tomb. He runs to the tomb with another disciple to see for himself (John 20:2-6). 3. The Other Disciple (the one Jesus loved) This disciple is traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel. He accompanies Peter to the tomb and is noted for reaching the tomb first. He sees and believes in the resurrection (John 20:2-8). 4. Jesus Jesus is the central figure in this chapter, having risen from the dead. He appears to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and later to Thomas, affirming His resurrection and commissioning His followers (John 20:14-29). 5. The Disciples The group of Jesus' followers who are gathered together in a locked room for fear of the Jews. Jesus appears to them, showing them His hands and side, and gives them the Holy Spirit (John 20:19-23). 6. Thomas (also called Didymus) Thomas, one of the Twelve, is not present when Jesus first appears to the other disciples. He expresses doubt about Jesus' resurrection until he sees Jesus himself and is invited to touch His wounds, leading to his declaration of faith (John 20:24-28). Places 1. The Tomb The chapter begins with Mary Magdalene visiting the tomb where Jesus had been laid. The tomb is described as being empty, which is central to the resurrection narrative. The Greek term used for tomb is "mnēmeion" (μνημεῖον), indicating a place of remembrance or a sepulcher. 2. The Garden While not explicitly named in John 20, the context suggests that the tomb was located in a garden. This is inferred from John 19:41, which states that the tomb was in a garden near the place of crucifixion. The garden setting is significant as it contrasts the death of Jesus with the new life symbolized by the resurrection. 3. The Upper Room The disciples are gathered in a room with locked doors for fear of the Jewish leaders. This is where Jesus appears to them after His resurrection. The term "upper room" is not used in John 20, but it is traditionally understood to be the same or similar location as the Last Supper, based on the context of the disciples gathering in a secure place. Events 1. The Empty Tomb (John 20:1-2) Mary Magdalene visits the tomb early on the first day of the week and finds the stone removed. She runs to inform Simon Peter and the other disciple, saying, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have put Him!" 2. Peter and John at the Tomb (John 20:3-10) Peter and the other disciple run to the tomb. The other disciple arrives first, looks in, and sees the linen cloths lying there. Peter enters the tomb and observes the linen cloths and the separate face cloth. The other disciple also enters, sees, and believes, though they do not yet understand the Scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead. 3. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18) Mary stands outside the tomb weeping. She sees two angels in white and then turns to see Jesus, whom she initially does not recognize. Jesus speaks her name, and she recognizes Him, calling Him "Rabboni" (Teacher). Jesus instructs her not to cling to Him and to tell His brothers that He is ascending to the Father. 4. Jesus Appears to the Disciples (John 20:19-23) On the evening of the first day of the week, Jesus appears to the disciples in a locked room, saying, "Peace be with you." He shows them His hands and side, and they rejoice. Jesus breathes on them and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit," giving them authority to forgive sins. 5. Jesus and Thomas (John 20:24-29) Thomas, not present at Jesus' first appearance, doubts the resurrection. Eight days later, Jesus appears again and invites Thomas to touch His wounds. Thomas responds, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus says, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." 6. Purpose of the Gospel (John 20:30-31) The chapter concludes by stating that Jesus performed many other signs not recorded in the book. The purpose of what is written is "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 Paul affirms the resurrection as a foundational truth of the Gospel. Matthew 28:18-20 The Great Commission parallels Jesus' sending of the disciples in John 20:21. Hebrews 11:1 This verse on faith complements the lesson from Thomas' encounter with Jesus. Romans 10:9 Highlights the importance of confessing and believing in the resurrection for salvation. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for the Resurrection Praise God for the victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ. Personal Relationship with Jesus Pray for a deeper, more personal encounter with the risen Lord. Peace in Troubled Times Ask for Christ's peace to fill your heart and the hearts of others. Strengthened Faith Request God's help in overcoming doubt and growing in faith. Boldness in Sharing the Gospel Seek courage and opportunities to share the message of Jesus with others. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the resurrection narrative in John 20 deepen your understanding of the Gospel? 2. What can we learn about faith from Mary Magdalene's encounter with the resurrected Jesus? 3. How does Jesus' interaction with His disciples help us understand His mission for us today? 4. Why do you think Thomas doubted the resurrection of Jesus, and what does his story teach us about faith and doubt? 5. How can you relate to Thomas' need for tangible proof in your own faith journey? 6. How does Jesus' commission to His disciples relate to our calling as Christians in the world today? 7. What is the significance of Jesus showing His wounds to His disciples after His resurrection? 8. How does John 20 address the theme of faith, especially in difficult or doubtful situations? 9. What lessons can we draw from John's purpose in writing his Gospel? 10. What does it mean for you personally to have "life in His name" as John 20:31 suggests? 11. How does the resurrection of Jesus bring hope to your current circumstances? 12. In what ways does Jesus' peace, as He offered His disciples, speak to your life today? 13. How does the transformation of the disciples from fear to boldness inspire you? 14. How does understanding Jesus' resurrection influence your view of death and eternal life? 15. How can you carry the message of Jesus' resurrection and life to those around you in your daily life? 16. What steps can you take when you're in a 'Thomas moment' of doubt in your life? 17. How does Jesus' command to Mary Magdalene not to cling to Him impact your understanding of change and growth in spiritual life? 18. In what ways can you apply the teachings of this chapter in dealing with fear, doubt, and uncertainty in your life? 19. What change does the revelation of the resurrected Jesus bring to your life, similar to how it changed the lives of the disciples? 20. How can you practically embody the commission Jesus gives to His disciples in your personal and community life? Topics 1. The Empty Tomb (John 20:1-10) Mary Magdalene discovers the stone rolled away from the tomb and informs Peter and the beloved disciple. They run to the tomb, find it empty, and see the linen cloths lying there. This event signifies the resurrection of Jesus, fulfilling His prophecy of rising on the third day. The Greek word "ἔγερσις" (egersis) relates to the concept of resurrection or rising. 2. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18) Mary Magdalene encounters two angels and then Jesus Himself, whom she initially does not recognize. Jesus calls her by name, and she recognizes Him, calling Him "Rabboni" (Teacher). This appearance emphasizes the personal relationship Jesus has with His followers and the importance of recognizing His voice. 3. Jesus Appears to His Disciples (John 20:19-23) Jesus appears to the disciples in a locked room, offering them peace and showing His wounds. He breathes on them, saying, "Receive the Holy Spirit." This act signifies the impartation of the Holy Spirit, empowering the disciples for their mission. The Greek word "πνεῦμα" (pneuma) is used for Spirit, indicating breath or wind. 4. Jesus and Thomas (John 20:24-29) Thomas, who was not present during Jesus' first appearance, doubts the resurrection until he sees Jesus and His wounds. Jesus invites Thomas to touch His wounds, leading Thomas to declare, "My Lord and my God!" This passage highlights the importance of faith and the acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity. 5. The Purpose of John's Gospel (John 20:30-31) The chapter concludes with a statement of purpose: the signs recorded in the Gospel are written so that readers may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, they may have life in His name. The Greek word "πιστεύω" (pisteuō) is used for believe, indicating trust and faith. Themes 1. The Resurrection of Jesus The chapter begins with the discovery of the empty tomb, signifying Jesus' victory over death. "Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance" (John 20:1). The Greek word for "resurrection" (ἀνάστασις, anastasis) emphasizes the physical rising of Jesus, affirming His divine power and the fulfillment of prophecy. 2. Faith and Belief The theme of faith is central, as seen in the reactions of the disciples. "Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. And he saw and believed" (John 20:8). The Greek word for "believe" (πιστεύω, pisteuō) underscores trust and conviction in the truth of Jesus' resurrection. 3. The Role of Women in the Resurrection Narrative Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Christ highlights the important role of women in the early Christian community. "Jesus said to her, 'Mary.' She turned and said to Him in Aramaic, 'Rabboni!' (which means Teacher)" (John 20:16). This interaction emphasizes the personal relationship and recognition between Jesus and His followers. 4. The Commissioning of the Disciples Jesus appears to His disciples, granting them peace and commissioning them for ministry. "Again Jesus said to them, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you'" (John 20:21). The Greek word for "send" (ἀποστέλλω, apostellō) indicates a mission with authority, paralleling Jesus' own mission from the Father. 5. The Gift of the Holy Spirit Jesus breathes on the disciples, imparting the Holy Spirit. "And with that, He breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit'" (John 20:22). The act of breathing (ἐμφυσάω, emphysaō) recalls the creation narrative, symbolizing new life and empowerment for the disciples. 6. Doubt and Assurance Thomas' initial doubt and subsequent confession of faith highlight the journey from skepticism to belief. "Thomas answered Him, 'My Lord and my God!'" (John 20:28). The Greek term for "doubt" (ἀπιστία, apistia) contrasts with the affirmation of Jesus' divine identity, underscoring the importance of personal revelation and conviction. 7. The Purpose of the Gospel The chapter concludes with a statement of purpose for the Gospel of John. "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" (John 20:31). The Greek word for "life" (ζωή, zōē) signifies eternal life, a central promise of the Christian faith. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions