John·Chapter 20

How to Apply

This week, think about a situation in your life where you feel uncertain or confused. Just like Mary ran to the disciples for help, reach out to someone you trust—maybe a friend or family member. Share your thoughts and feelings with them. You might find that opening up not only eases your worries but also leads to unexpected insights or solutions. Take a moment to reflect on how sharing your struggles can bring clarity, just as it did for Mary and the disciples.

Chapter Context

This verse is a pivotal moment in a larger story that unfolds after Jesus’ crucifixion. Mary Magdalene arrives at the tomb early in the morning and finds it empty. Her immediate reaction is to run to Simon Peter and another disciple, often thought to be John. This moment sets off a chain of events that leads to the discovery of the resurrection. By expressing her fear and confusion, Mary opens the door for the disciples to witness the miracle of the resurrection. It’s a dramatic shift in the narrative, moving from despair to the hope of new life.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• so - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• ran - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• went - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• to - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• simon - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• peter - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• the - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• other - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What emotions do you think Mary felt when she discovered the tomb was empty, and how can you relate that to a time in your life when you faced unexpected change?

Related Verses

• Matthew 28:1 - This verse describes how Mary went to the tomb early in the morning, which connects to her urgency in this moment.
• Mark 16:5 - In Mark's account, the angel tells Mary not to be afraid, echoing the need for reassurance in her time of confusion.
• Luke 24:10 - This verse highlights how Mary Magdalene and other women were the first to witness the empty tomb, emphasizing their crucial role in the resurrection story.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 20:2. 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).