What is the meaning of John 20:17? “Do not cling to Me” • Mary Magdalene’s instinct to grasp Jesus shows genuine love, yet Jesus gently redirects her. • His resurrected body is real and tangible (Luke 24:39; Matthew 28:9), but the relationship has shifted from physical proximity to spiritual communion. • We, too, must not try to “hold on” to yesterday’s experience; the risen Lord calls us to walk by faith, not sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). “for I have not yet ascended to the Father” • The ascension is a necessary next step in God’s redemptive plan (John 16:7; Acts 1:9-11). • Until He sits at the Father’s right hand as our High Priest and Advocate (Hebrews 4:14-16), the mission is still unfolding. • Jesus reminds Mary—and us—that there is a divine timetable; obedience means trusting His schedule, not clinging to our own. “But go and tell My brothers” • Jesus’ first post-resurrection commission is given to a woman once bound by demons, showcasing grace and purpose for every believer (Mark 16:9-10). • Calling the disciples “brothers” restores and elevates them after their failures (John 20:19). • The pattern is clear: experience Christ, then share Christ (Acts 1:8). “I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God” • By His death and resurrection, Jesus secures for us the same intimate access He enjoys (Romans 8:15; Ephesians 2:18). • “My Father and your Father” underscores both distinction (He is uniquely the Son) and inclusion (we are adopted children). • “My God and your God” affirms the unity of worship; the One Jesus calls God is now ours to approach boldly (Hebrews 10:19-22). • The ascension guarantees His ongoing ministry: sending the Spirit (John 14:16-18) and preparing a place for us (John 14:2-3). summary John 20:17 shifts Mary—and every disciple—from clinging to Christ’s physical presence to trusting His exalted, heavenly ministry. The risen Lord redirects affection into mission, anchors hope in His ascension, restores fallen followers as family, and opens the way for us to call God our own Father. |
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