Introduction
John 20 is pivotal in the Christian narrative, detailing the discovery of Jesus’ resurrection, His appearances to the disciples, and the transformation this event brought about. This chapter emphasizes the reality of the resurrection, the personal encounters with the risen Christ, and their profound implications for faith and understanding.
The Empty Tomb
Discovery by Mary Magdalene
Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene goes to the tomb and finds the stone removed. Distraught, she runs to Simon Peter and the beloved disciple, John, and tells them that the Lord’s body has been taken away (John 20:1-2).
Peter and John’s Investigation
Peter and John run to the tomb. John reaches it first but does not enter; Peter goes in and sees the linen wrappings lying there and the cloth that had covered Jesus’ head, not lying with the linens but folded up in a place by itself. John then also enters, sees, and believes. However, they do not yet understand from Scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead, and they return home (John 20:3-10).
Mary’s Encounter with Jesus
Mary stands outside the tomb weeping. As she weeps, she bends over to look into the tomb and sees two angels in white. They ask her why she is crying, and she explains her concern for the missing body of Jesus. Turning around, she sees Jesus standing there but does not recognize Him until He calls her by name. Jesus instructs her not to cling to Him but to go and tell the disciples that He is ascending to His Father (John 20:11-18).
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
The Appearance to the Disciples
That evening, Jesus appears to the disciples in a locked room, standing among them and offering peace. He shows them His hands and side, which joyfully convinces them of His resurrection. Jesus then breathes on them and imparts the Holy Spirit, commissioning them to forgive or retain sins, thus empowering them in their forthcoming mission (John 20:19-23).
Doubting Thomas
Thomas, not present at the first appearance, declares he will not believe unless he sees the nail marks in Jesus’ hands and puts his finger where the nails were. A week later, Jesus appears again in a locked room and directly addresses Thomas, inviting him to touch His wounds. Thomas responds with a profound confession of faith, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus commends those who have not seen and yet have believed, highlighting the blessedness of faith without physical sight (John 20:24-29).
Theological Themes and Connections
Connection to Jesus Christ
John 20 vividly connects to Jesus Christ through His resurrection, asserting His victory over death and His divine nature. His appearances provide undeniable evidence of His physical resurrection, reinforcing His teachings and His claims about His identity and mission.
God’s Love for the World
This chapter demonstrates God’s love through the resurrection of Jesus, offering hope and redemption to humanity. Jesus’ compassionate interactions, especially with Mary Magdalene and Thomas, illustrate His personal care and desire for His followers to experience the joy and certainty of His resurrection.
Contemporary Relevance
John 20 remains profoundly relevant today as it addresses foundational aspects of Christian faith—life after death, the reality of Jesus’ resurrection, and the personal transformation that knowledge can bring. It challenges believers to embrace the implications of the resurrection: living in the power of the Holy Spirit, participating in the mission of forgiveness, and walking in faith even when not seeing.
Conclusion
John 20 not only confirms the historical and spiritual truth of Jesus’ resurrection but also invites believers to a transformed life based on the reality of His victory over death. This chapter encourages a deep, personal engagement with the risen Christ and a commitment to spreading the good news of His resurrection. It reassures believers of their future resurrection and eternal life, promising ongoing presence and empowerment through the Holy Spirit for living out their faith in the world.