John·Chapter 20

How to Apply

Start small this week. Think of someone you might be holding onto resentment toward. It could be a friend, a family member, or even yourself. Take a moment to write down how that situation makes you feel. Then, write a letter (you don’t have to send it!) where you express your feelings and then let go of the hurt. You could even pray or just take a moment of silence to say, 'I forgive you.' It’s about taking a step toward freedom—one small action can make a big difference!

Chapter Context

Now, let’s set the scene! This verse comes right after a monumental event—the resurrection of Jesus. Picture a group of His closest friends, scared and confused, hiding away after everything that happened. When Jesus appears to them, it’s a huge turning point. He’s bringing hope back into their lives, and right here, He’s giving them a mission. This verse is pivotal because it marks a shift: from fear to empowerment. By talking about forgiveness, Jesus is equipping them to spread His message of love and grace to the world. It’s like handing over the keys to a new way of living, right when they need it most.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• forgive - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sins - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• any - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• forgiven - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• them - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• withhold - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• any - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• withheld - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does forgiveness mean to you personally, and how do you think it could change your relationships if you embraced it more fully?

Related Verses

• Matthew 6:14 - Here, Jesus explains that forgiving others is crucial if we want to be forgiven ourselves. It's a direct connection to the idea of mutual grace.
• Luke 6:37 - This verse talks about the principle of judging less and forgiving more. It's all about creating a cycle of kindness that starts with you.
• Ephesians 4:32 - This verse encourages kindness and forgiveness, reminding us to treat others as we’d want to be treated. It's a practical application of this message.
• Isaiah 43:25 - Written 700 years before this verse, it emphasizes God’s promise to forgive our wrongs and forget our mistakes, showing the powerful nature of forgiveness in the divine story.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 20:23. 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).