John·Chapter 20

How to Apply

So, how can you live out this verse this week? Start by being honest with yourself about what’s weighing on your heart. Maybe it’s a struggle at school, a relationship issue, or just feeling overwhelmed. Take a moment to write it down or share it with a friend. Then, spend some time in quiet reflection or prayer, asking for clarity and support. Just like Mary, be open to the conversation that follows. Keep an eye out for unexpected moments of comfort or connection with others—sometimes they come when you least expect it!

Chapter Context

Now, let’s zoom out a bit. This verse is nestled in a dramatic chapter where everything is changing. Just moments before, Jesus was crucified, and Mary is grappling with the aftermath of that loss. She’s come to the tomb, expecting to find the body of her beloved teacher, only to discover it’s empty! This question from Jesus comes at a crucial turning point. It shifts Mary’s focus from her sorrow to the possibility of something new and miraculous. It’s a moment that starts a transformation, moving from despair to hope. This interaction sets the stage for her to recognize who He truly is—alive and present—changing everything for her and the world.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• jesus - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• said - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• her - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• woman - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• why - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• weeping - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• whom - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• seeking - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• supposing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• be - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What feelings come up for you when you think about Jesus asking Mary why she is crying? How does that resonate with your own experiences of sadness or searching?

Related Verses

• Matthew 28:5-6 - Similar to this moment, an angel tells Mary that Jesus is not dead but has risen, emphasizing the miracle of His resurrection.
• Isaiah 53:3 - Written about 700 years before this, it describes a suffering servant who understands pain, connecting to Jesus’ compassion for our struggles.
• Luke 24:5-6 - This recounts how angels question the women at the tomb, echoing the theme of seeking and finding hope in the midst of despair.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 20:15. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Resurrection, Faith, Grief and Joy, Recognition of Jesus, Mission and Commissioning, Peace, Transformation

Key Verses

John 20:1, John 20:9, John 20:16, John 20:19, John 20:21

Historical Context

John's Gospel is the last of the four Gospels written, likely composed between 85-95 AD. It aims to present Jesus as the Son of God, emphasizing His divine nature and the significance of His miracles and teachings. Chapter 20 is crucial as it provides the account of Jesus' resurrection, which is foundational for Christian belief. This chapter also serves to address the doubts and fears of the disciples, offering them reassurance and a mission following Jesus' resurrection. The narrative style is reflective, focusing on personal encounters and theological implications, and it supplements the accounts found in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).