Summary
John 20:1–10 – The Empty Tomb
What happens:
Early on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene finds the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. She runs to tell Peter and the other disciple. They race to the tomb; the beloved disciple arrives first but waits for Peter, who enters and sees the linen wrappings. The other disciple then goes in, believes, and they return home marveling at what they’ve seen.
What it means:
The empty tomb confirms Jesus’ resurrection and invites belief based on eyewitness evidence. Faith begins with seeing God’s extraordinary work and trusting his promises above all doubt.
John 20:11–18 – Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
What happens:
Mary stands weeping outside the tomb and sees two angels. They ask why she weeps. Turning, she sees Jesus but does not recognize him until he speaks her name. She cries out “Rabboni!” and Jesus tells her not to hold on but to go and tell the disciples that he is ascending to the Father.
What it means:
Personal encounter with the risen Christ transforms grief into mission. Jesus’ calling by name shows his intimate care and commissions believers as witnesses of his resurrection and ascension.
John 20:19–23 – Jesus Appears to the Disciples
What happens:
That evening, behind locked doors, Jesus appears and says “Peace be with you.” He shows his wounds, breathes on them, and says “Receive the Holy Spirit.” He sends them as the Father sent him, giving authority to forgive sins.
What it means:
Jesus imparts peace, forgiveness, and empowering presence to his followers. The gift of the Spirit equips the church to continue Christ’s reconciling work in the world.
John 20:24–29 – Jesus and Thomas
What happens:
Thomas, absent at the first appearance, doubts until he sees and touches Jesus’ wounds. Jesus invites him to believe without seeing. Thomas responds “My Lord and my God!” Jesus blesses those who believe without physical proof.
What it means:
Faith is commended over sight. Jesus honors honest doubt and reveals that peace with him leads to worshipful confession and blessing for those who trust beyond evidence.
John 20:30–31 – Purpose of the Gospel
What happens:
John explains that Jesus performed many signs not recorded here so that readers may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing have life in his name.
What it means:
The Gospel’s purpose is to inspire faith in Christ’s identity and to grant eternal life. Belief in Jesus transforms reading into life-giving encounter.
Application
- Look for the risen Lord in moments of doubt, trusting the evidence of his resurrection
- Respond to Jesus’ personal call with worship and obedience, becoming his witness to others
- Embrace the peace and forgiveness he offers, relying on the Holy Spirit for your mission
- Value faith that trusts beyond sight, resting in the blessing Jesus pronounces on believers
- Let the Gospel’s purpose guide your reading and sharing of Scripture, inviting others to life in Christ
