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April 9, 2023 - John 20:1-18


April 9, 2023

Lessons Learned

Gospel of John 20:1-18

by Wayne Gaeddert

1. Each Gospel writer (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) tells the story of the Resurrection in his unique way. Dr. Don Laughlin

2. The Resurrection is the greatest event in history.

3. Jesus was the first fruits of the dead. See 1 Corinthians 15:20

4. Jesus reveals himself to those who are seeking Him.

5. The chief priests and Pharisees remembered that Jesus said He would rise after three days, but His followers were not expecting Him to rise.

6. Grave robbery was common enough in Jesus’ day that the Roman Emperor Claudius (AD 41-54) ordered capital punishment for those convicted of looting graves and removing bodies.

  • This is what gave traction to the chief priests and Pharisees’ explanation of the empty tomb. Matthew 28:11-15

  • This is why the first thought of Mary Magdalene and the women was the body was stolen. John 20:1-2

7. “Jesus’ appearances on three successive Sunday nights set the stage for believers worshiping on Sundays.” Dr. Bob Utley

8. Mary Magdalene was the first follower of Jesus to see the risen Lord.

9. The stone was rolled away to let the people in, not to let Jesus out.

10. Rabboni means my Great Teacher.

11. Spiritual beings are often described as wearing white.

  • Jesus’ garment at the transfiguration. Matthew 17:2

  • Angels at the tomb. John 20:12

  • Angels at the ascension. Acts 1:10

  • Elders around the throne of God. Revelation 4:4

12. Application:

  • Evidence of a risen Christ:

    • The empty tomb with grave clothes left behind. Matt. 28:6, Mark 16:6, Luke 24:3, John 20:6-7

    • The testimony of angels. Matt. 28:5-6, Mark 16:6, Luke 24:4-5

    • Eyewitnesses. Matt. 28:8-9, Mark 16:9, Luke 24:4-5, John 20:14-16,19, 1 Cor. 15:6

  • Two consequences flow from the Resurrection of Jesus. (Penalty for sin was death but death could not hold Jesus in the grave.)

    • Sin was overcome.

    • Death was defeated. 

  • Believing in the resurrection of Jesus is necessary for salvation. Romans 10:9-10