Expository Thoughts On John - JOHN 20:11-18
J.C. Ryle expounds on John 20:11-18 to reveal the tender and transformative encounter between the risen Christ and Mary Magdalene, emphasizing the intimate love and privileges granted to those who earnestly seek Him.
In this expository sermon on John 20:11-18, J.C. Ryle explores the poignant encounter between Mary Magdalene and the risen Jesus. He highlights the tender love of Christ and the special privileges granted to those who earnestly seek Him. Ryle’s thoughtful exposition invites believers to deepen their faith and embrace the transformative power of the resurrection.
Text
But Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. As she wept, she bent down and looked into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white sitting where Jesus’ body had been lying, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" Mary replied, "They have taken my Lord away, and I do not know where they have put him!" When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus.
Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Who are you looking for?" Because she thought he was the gardener, she said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will take him." Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to him in Aramaic, "Rabboni" (which means Teacher). Jesus replied, "Do not touch me, for I have not yet ascended to my Father. Go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’" Mary Magdalene came and informed the disciples, "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them what Jesus had said to her.
The interview between the Lord Jesus and Mary Magdalene immediately after His resurrection, described in these verses, is a narrative peculiar to John. No other Evangelist has been inspired to record it. Of all the accounts of the appearances of our Lord, after He rose from the dead, none perhaps is so affecting and touching as this. He that can read this simple story without a deep interest, must have a very cold and unfeeling heart.
We see, first, in these verses, that those who love Christ most diligently and perseveringly, are those who receive most privileges from Christ\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Scene of Mary’s Weeping
- Mary’s grief and confusion at the empty tomb
- The appearance of the angels
- Mary’s misunderstanding of Jesus’ absence
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II. The Appearance of the Risen Christ
- Jesus’ gentle questioning of Mary
- Mary’s initial failure to recognize Jesus
- The personal call of Jesus by name
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III. The Commission and Message
- Jesus instructs Mary not to touch Him
- The announcement of His ascension
- Mary’s role as the messenger to the disciples
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IV. The Privileges of Loving Christ
- The special blessings granted to faithful believers
- The intimate relationship between Christ and His followers
- The call to persevere in love and faith
Key Quotes
“Of all the accounts of the appearances of our Lord, after He rose from the dead, none perhaps is so affecting and touching as this.” — J.C. Ryle
“He that can read this simple story without a deep interest, must have a very cold and unfeeling heart.” — J.C. Ryle
“Those who love Christ most diligently and perseveringly, are those who receive most privileges from Christ.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Persevere in loving Christ even in times of sorrow and confusion.
- Recognize that Jesus knows each believer personally and calls them by name.
- Embrace the privilege and responsibility of sharing the good news of Christ’s resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mary Magdalene not recognize Jesus at first?
Mary’s eyes were clouded by grief and she mistook Jesus for the gardener, showing how sorrow can obscure spiritual perception.
What is the significance of Jesus calling Mary by name?
It signifies the personal and intimate relationship Jesus has with His followers, awakening faith and recognition.
Why did Jesus tell Mary not to touch Him?
Jesus indicated that His ascension had not yet occurred, symbolizing a transition period before His full glorification.
What privilege did Mary receive after seeing the risen Christ?
She was commissioned to be the first to announce the resurrection to the disciples, highlighting the honor given to faithful love.
How does this passage encourage believers today?
It encourages believers to persevere in love and faith, promising intimate fellowship and special blessings from Christ.