How does John 20:17 emphasize Jesus' relationship with God as "My Father"? Setting the Scene John 20:17: “Do not cling to Me,” Jesus said, “for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go and tell My brothers, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God.’ ” Why “My Father” Matters • Unique Sonship – All through John, Jesus distinguishes Himself as the only begotten Son (John 1:14; 3:16). – “My Father” points to an eternal, unbroken relationship that precedes creation (John 1:1-2). – Unlike any prophet or disciple, Jesus shares the Father’s nature (John 10:30). • Continual Dependence – Even after the resurrection, Jesus speaks of an ongoing submission and communion with the Father (John 5:19). – His words underscore that His mission—including the upcoming ascension—is directed by the Father’s will. Contrast with “Your Father” • Shared, But Not Identical – Believers become children of God by grace and adoption (John 1:12; Romans 8:15). – By placing “My Father” first, Jesus keeps His unique status clear, while graciously welcoming His followers into the family. • Bridge Through the Resurrection – His victory over death secures our access to the Father (Hebrews 2:11). – The ascension (“I am ascending…”) signals that He will present His finished work before the Father on our behalf (Hebrews 9:24). Relationship Reinforced by Other Passages • John 5:17-18 – Jesus’ claim that “My Father is still working” enrages opponents because it equates Him with God. • John 14:9-10 – “Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father,” affirming perfect oneness. • John 17:5 – Jesus asks to be glorified with the Father “with the glory I had with You before the world existed,” again asserting pre-existent Sonship. Implications for Disciples Then and Now • Assurance of Acceptance – Because the Father is first “His,” He can truly become ours. – Our relationship rests on Jesus’ own standing, never on personal merit. • Ongoing Fellowship – The ascended Lord remains our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). – We approach “My Father” with confidence because the Son continues to intercede (Hebrews 7:25). Takeaway John 20:17 highlights Jesus’ exclusive, eternal bond with God as “My Father,” while simultaneously opening the door for believers to share in that family relationship. His words affirm His deity, underscore His obedience, and guarantee our welcome into the same loving household through His finished work. |
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