How does John 20:8 encourage us to believe without seeing physical evidence? The Scene at the Tomb • John 20:8 – “Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed.” • John steps into the dark, rock-hewn tomb, notices the linen wrappings lying neatly, and instantly trusts that Jesus is alive—before encountering the risen Lord in person. What John Actually Saw • No body, no angelic announcement (yet), no dramatic sign—only: – Linen strips that once bound Jesus’ body (20:6). – The face cloth folded separately (20:7). • In first-century burial practice, grave robbers would never leave such orderly evidence. The empty, orderly tomb silently shouted “Resurrection.” Seeing Isn’t the Same as Physical Proof • John “saw” the evidence but not the resurrected Jesus. • His belief rested on: – The reliability of Jesus’ own promises (John 2:19; 10:17-18). – The faithfulness of Old Testament prophecy (Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 53:11). • John trusted God’s Word over his senses—illustrating Hebrews 11:1: “faith is … certainty of what we do not see.” Why John’s Response Encourages Us • If John could believe with only partial evidence, we can trust with the complete biblical record. • Jesus later underscores this principle: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). • Our faith isn’t blind; it is grounded in eyewitness testimony (1 John 1:1-3) and the unchanging Scriptures (2 Peter 1:19). Scripture Reinforces Faith Beyond Sight • 2 Corinthians 5:7 – “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” • Romans 10:17 – “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” • 1 Peter 1:8-9 – “Though you have not seen Him, you love Him … you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” Practical Takeaways for Everyday Faith • Treat Scripture as the final authority—just as John did. What God has spoken is more certain than what eyes perceive. • Remember that God often leaves enough evidence to strengthen faith without eliminating the need for trust. • When doubts surface, rehearse the promises of Jesus and the historical reality of the Resurrection. • Live expectantly: if the tomb truly is empty, nothing in life is impossible with God. |
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