John 20:1

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.

Study Bible

Early on the first day of the week
This phrase marks a significant moment in Christian history, as it denotes the beginning of a new creation week, symbolizing the new covenant established through Jesus Christ's resurrection. The "first day of the week" is Sunday, which became the Lord's Day for Christians, replacing the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday) as the primary day of worship. The Greek word for "week" here is "sabbaton," which can refer to the Sabbath or a week. This transition from Sabbath to Sunday worship reflects the early church's recognition of the resurrection's centrality to the Christian faith.

while it was still dark
The mention of darkness not only sets the physical scene but also carries symbolic weight. Darkness often represents confusion, fear, or the absence of understanding in Scripture. In this context, it underscores the despair and uncertainty that Jesus' followers felt after His crucifixion. Yet, it is in this darkness that the light of the resurrection begins to dawn, offering hope and clarity. The Greek word "skotia" for darkness can also imply spiritual blindness, which is about to be dispelled by the revelation of the risen Christ.

Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in the resurrection narrative. Her presence at the tomb highlights her devotion and love for Jesus. Historically, Mary Magdalene is often misunderstood, but the Gospels portray her as a faithful disciple. Her role as the first to witness the empty tomb and later the risen Christ (as described in subsequent verses) underscores the radical nature of Jesus' ministry, which elevated the status of women in a patriarchal society. Her name, "Magdalene," indicates she was from Magdala, a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee.

went to the tomb
Mary's journey to the tomb is an act of devotion and mourning. The Greek verb "erchomai," translated as "went," implies a deliberate and purposeful action. This reflects her commitment to Jesus, even in death. The tomb, a place of burial, becomes a site of revelation and transformation. Archaeological findings of first-century tombs in Jerusalem provide context for understanding the physical setting—a rock-hewn cave sealed with a large stone.

and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance
The removal of the stone is a pivotal moment, signifying that something extraordinary has occurred. The Greek word "airo," meaning "removed" or "taken away," suggests divine intervention, as the stone was large and would have required significant effort to move. This act is the first indication of the resurrection, challenging the finality of death. The empty tomb becomes a powerful symbol of victory over sin and death, affirming Jesus' promises and the hope of eternal life for believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mary Magdalene
A devoted follower of Jesus, Mary Magdalene is the first to visit the tomb. Her dedication and love for Jesus are evident as she seeks Him even after His crucifixion.

2. The Tomb
The burial place of Jesus, which was sealed with a stone. The removal of the stone signifies the miraculous resurrection of Jesus.

3. The First Day of the Week
This refers to Sunday, the day after the Jewish Sabbath, marking the beginning of a new creation and the resurrection of Jesus.

Teaching Points

The Role of Women in the Resurrection Narrative
Mary Magdalene's presence at the tomb highlights the significant role women played in the early Christian community. Her devotion and witness challenge cultural norms and affirm the value of women in God's plan.

The Significance of the Empty Tomb
The empty tomb is a powerful symbol of Jesus' victory over death. It invites believers to live in the hope and assurance of the resurrection.

Seeking Jesus in the Darkness
Mary Magdalene's journey to the tomb "while it was still dark" can be seen as a metaphor for seeking Jesus in times of uncertainty and despair. Her example encourages believers to pursue Christ even when circumstances seem bleak.

The New Beginning of the First Day
The resurrection on the first day of the week signifies a new beginning and a new creation. It calls believers to embrace the transformative power of the resurrection in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Mary Magdalene's early visit to the tomb reveal about her relationship with Jesus, and how can we emulate her devotion in our own lives?

2. How does the removal of the stone from the tomb serve as a metaphor for obstacles in our spiritual journey, and what steps can we take to overcome them?

3. In what ways does the resurrection of Jesus on the first day of the week symbolize a new beginning for believers, and how can we apply this concept to our personal growth?

4. How do the accounts of the resurrection in the Gospels complement each other, and what insights can we gain from studying them together?

5. Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, how does the resurrection of Jesus serve as a foundation for our faith, and how can we share this truth with others in our community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:1-10
This passage also describes the visit of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to the tomb, providing additional details about the angelic encounter and the message of Jesus' resurrection.

Mark 16:1-8
Mark's account includes Mary Magdalene and other women visiting the tomb, emphasizing their role as the first witnesses to the resurrection.

Luke 24:1-12
Luke provides a similar account, highlighting the women's discovery of the empty tomb and their report to the apostles.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Paul affirms the resurrection of Jesus as a foundational truth of the Christian faith, aligning with the events described in John 20:1.