John 20:9 – “(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)”
Extended Explanation
This verse highlights a key reality: even after seeing the empty tomb, Peter and John still didn’t fully grasp what had happened. They saw the evidence—Jesus’ body was gone, the burial linens were left behind—but they had not yet connected it to what Scripture had foretold.
Jesus had told them multiple times that He would rise from the dead (Mark 9:31, Luke 18:31-33), but they had struggled to understand. This verse shows that even those who walked closely with Jesus needed time for their faith to grow. It wasn’t until later—after Jesus appeared to them and explained the Scriptures (Luke 24:44-46)—that they fully understood what had taken place.
Their initial confusion is actually encouraging. It shows that faith is a journey. Understanding God’s plans doesn’t always happen instantly. Sometimes, we have to see things unfold before we truly grasp what God is doing.
Historical Context
Jewish beliefs about resurrection in the first century varied. Some groups, like the Sadducees, denied that resurrection was possible (Mark 12:18-27), while others, like the Pharisees, believed in a future resurrection at the end of time (Daniel 12:2). But the idea of one person rising from the dead in the middle of history—especially the Messiah—was unexpected.
The disciples had been raised on the Hebrew Scriptures, but they had been taught to expect a Messiah who would bring political victory, not one who would suffer, die, and rise again. Though Jesus had clearly predicted His resurrection, it was difficult for them to understand because it went against what they had always assumed.
Only after Jesus’ resurrection and His personal teaching did the disciples fully comprehend that Scripture had been pointing to this all along (Psalm 16:10, Isaiah 53:10-11).
Theological Implications
This verse highlights an important truth: knowing about Jesus is not the same as understanding His work. The disciples had heard Jesus’ words about rising from the dead, but they didn’t yet connect those words with the reality of what had happened.
This shows that belief in Jesus isn’t just about witnessing miracles or even seeing evidence—it requires understanding God’s Word. Faith isn’t just about experience; it’s about seeing how everything fits into God’s bigger plan.
It also reminds us that Scripture is the foundation of truth. Jesus’ resurrection wasn’t a random event—it was part of God’s plan all along. But without knowing the Scriptures, the disciples struggled to make sense of it. This teaches us that we must root our faith in God’s Word, not just in what we see or feel.
Literary Analysis
John’s Gospel often highlights the theme of gradual understanding. The disciples frequently misunderstand Jesus’ teachings (John 2:22, John 12:16), only realizing their meaning later. This verse fits into that pattern, showing that faith and understanding develop over time.
The parenthetical nature of this statement makes it feel like a reflection. John, writing this Gospel years later, is looking back and acknowledging that they had not understood at the time. This adds honesty and credibility to his account—he is not trying to make himself or the other disciples look good, but instead showing their real struggles in coming to faith.
Additionally, the phrase “had to rise” suggests divine necessity. The resurrection was not an accident or an afterthought—it was part of God’s plan from the beginning. The wording implies that Jesus’ resurrection was not just a possibility, but something that had to happen according to God’s design.
Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 24:25-27 – Jesus explains to the disciples on the road to Emmaus that the Scriptures had foretold His suffering and resurrection.
- John 2:19-22 – Jesus had spoken about His resurrection, but His disciples only understood after it happened.
- Psalm 16:10 – A prophecy that God would not let His “Holy One” see decay.
- Isaiah 53:10-11 – The prophecy that the suffering servant would be raised to life.
- Acts 2:31-32 – Peter later preaches that Jesus’ resurrection was foretold in Scripture.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that spiritual understanding takes time. Even the disciples, who walked with Jesus, did not immediately grasp everything. We should not be discouraged if we don’t understand God’s plan right away—He will reveal truth to us as we seek Him.
It also highlights the importance of knowing Scripture. The disciples struggled to understand the resurrection because they had not yet connected it to God’s Word. Many people today struggle with faith because they do not spend time in the Bible. If we want to grow in our understanding of God’s work, we need to be deeply rooted in His Word.
Additionally, this verse challenges us to trust God even when we don’t fully understand what He is doing. The disciples saw the empty tomb but didn’t fully grasp its meaning. Sometimes, we see God working in our lives but don’t understand why. This verse encourages us to be patient and trust that God’s plan will become clear in time.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is patient with our lack of understanding. He did not reject the disciples for their confusion—He continued to reveal truth to them. This shows His love and kindness. He does not expect instant understanding but walks with us as we grow in faith.
God also provided Scripture so that we could know His plans. He did not leave us in the dark—He spoke through the prophets and through Jesus Himself so that we could understand His work. The fact that Jesus’ resurrection was foretold shows that God has been working toward our salvation from the very beginning.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ resurrection was not a last-minute change in God’s plan—it was the fulfillment of everything the Scriptures had promised.
- John 10:17-18 – Jesus said He had the authority to lay down His life and take it up again.
- Matthew 12:40 – Jesus compared His resurrection to Jonah being in the belly of the fish for three days.
- Romans 6:4 – Just as Christ was raised from the dead, believers are called to walk in new life.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – Paul teaches that Jesus’ death and resurrection happened “according to the Scriptures.”
Jesus’ resurrection proves that He is the Son of God and that His sacrifice for sin was accepted. Without the resurrection, the cross would have been just another execution. This verse reminds us that the resurrection was necessary—it had to happen, not only for Jesus but for our salvation.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the disciples struggled to understand the resurrection, even though Jesus had told them about it?
- Have you ever experienced a time when you only understood what God was doing after looking back?
- How does this verse challenge you to study Scripture more deeply?
- What are some promises in Scripture that you may not fully understand now but trust will make sense in time?
- How can you encourage someone who is struggling to believe because they don’t fully understand God’s plan?
This verse reminds us that faith is a journey. Understanding God’s plan takes time, but He is patient with us. The resurrection of Jesus was not just a miracle—it was something that had to happen according to God’s Word. And just as God fulfilled His promises then, He will continue to fulfill His promises today.