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John 20

31 verses

TL;DR

Jesus appears alive after the resurrection, revealing Himself to Mary and the disciples, and grants the Holy Spirit, while Thomas moves from doubt to faith.

Summary

On the first day of the week Mary Magdalene visits the empty tomb and reports the stone has been removed. She encounters two angels and then Jesus, who speaks to her and instructs her to inform the disciples. Jesus then appears to the assembled disciples, declares peace, shows His wounds, and gives the Holy Ghost. Thomas, who was absent, demands physical proof, but later Jesus invites him to touch His wounds, leading Thomas to declare Jesus as Lord and God. The chapter concludes by affirming the resurrection, the authority of the Gospel, and the promise of life through faith in Jesus.

Outline
  1. Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and Jesus' appearance to her
  2. Jesus meets the disciples, delivers the Holy Spirit, and addresses Thomas
  3. Thomas' doubt resolved, affirmation of faith, and the conclusion of the Gospel’s purpose
Themes
ResurrectionFaith and doubtJesus as the Christ and Savior
Keywords
ResurrectionFaithJesusMaryPeterHoly SpiritChristDisciplesAngelsTomb
People
Mary MagdaleneSimon PeterJohn (the disciple whom Jesus loved)Jesustwo angelsThomas
Places
the sepulchre (tomb)
Things
linen clothesnapkinJesus' handsJesus' sideHoly Ghostprint of the nails
Key Verses
  • John 20:11-15: Jesus' first appearance to Mary after the resurrection
  • John 20:22-23: Jesus gives the Holy Ghost and the authority to forgive or retain sins
  • John 20:26-28: Thomas' doubt and subsequent affirmation of faith
Questions
  • What does Jesus’ interaction with Mary reveal about His compassion?
  • How does the handing of the Holy Ghost change the disciples’ mission?
  • Why does Thomas require physical evidence, and what does that say about human nature?
  • What does Jesus’ statement in verse 28 teach about the nature of faith?
  • How does the chapter’s conclusion support the purpose of the Gospel?
Sentiment

positive
The narrative is hopeful and joyous, emphasizing resurrection, faith, and divine promise, though moments of doubt and fear are acknowledged.