What can we learn from Mary's obedience to Jesus' command in John 20:18? Setting the Scene “Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord,’ and she told them what He had said to her.” (John 20:18) Jesus had just risen from the dead. He entrusted the first verbal proclamation of His resurrection to Mary Magdalene, instructing her in verse 17, “Go to My brothers and tell them…” She obeyed at once. Mary’s Immediate Obedience • No delay—she “went and announced.” • No debate—she accepted His word as fact. • No distraction—her singular focus was to deliver the message. Key Lessons on Obedience and Faith • Obedience verifies love for Christ John 14:21: “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” • Obedience often precedes fuller understanding John 15:14: “You are My friends if you do what I command you.” • The risen Lord’s words carry supreme authority, leaving no room for partial compliance. Bearing Witness Courageously • Mary risked misunderstanding and unbelief from the disciples (cf. Luke 24:11). • Her testimony aligned with prophetic truth—Psalm 16:10 foretold the Resurrection. • Acts 4:20 models the same spirit: “For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Obedience Fuels Community Encouragement • Her message transformed fearful disciples into expectant believers (John 20:19). • Romans 10:14-15 underscores the necessity of a messenger: “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard?” • Obedience contributes to the health and hope of the body of Christ. A Pattern for Personal Discipleship 1. Hear the command in Scripture. 2. Believe it literally and entirely. 3. Act promptly, regardless of personal cost. 4. Speak boldly of what the Lord has done. 5. Strengthen fellow believers through faithful testimony. Mary’s obedience in John 20:18 stands as a timeless invitation to live out the same unhesitating, witness-bearing faith today. |
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