John 20

Summary

 

This chapter in John narrates the pivotal events surrounding the discovery of the empty tomb, appearances of the risen Jesus to his disciples, and Thomas's transformation from doubt to faith. It establishes the reality of the resurrection and sets the foundation for Jesus' final instructions to his disciples.

 

1. The Empty Tomb (John 20:1-10): Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene goes to the tomb and finds the stone rolled away. She runs to tell Peter and John, who race to the tomb. John arrives first, but Peter enters and sees the linen cloths but no body. Both disciples return home without fully understanding.
2. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18): Mary Magdalene remains at the tomb weeping. Jesus, now risen, appears to her but initially, she mistakes him for the gardener. When he calls her by name, she recognizes him and becomes the first witness to the resurrected Christ.
3. Jesus Appears to the Disciples (John 20:19-23): On the evening of the same day, the disciples, gathered in fear behind locked doors, receive a visit from the risen Jesus. He shows them his hands and side, giving them peace. Jesus commissions them with the Holy Spirit, empowering them to forgive sins.
4. Thomas' Doubt and Confession (John 20:24-31): Thomas, one of the disciples, is not present when Jesus first appears. He expresses doubt about the resurrection unless he sees and touches Jesus' wounds. Jesus appears again, inviting Thomas to touch him, and Thomas confesses Jesus as "My Lord and my God." Jesus blesses those who believe without seeing.

 

References