What is the meaning of John 20:1? Early on the first day of the week - “Early on the first day of the week” (John 20:1) places the event on Sunday, the very day Jesus had promised to rise (Matthew 16:21). - All four Gospels agree on this timing (Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1), underscoring its historical reliability. - This first-day resurrection set the pattern for the earliest believers gathering on Sundays to break bread and worship (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2). - It signals a new creation week: just as God began creation on the first day, Jesus inaugurates new life and redemption on the first day. While it was still dark - Mary ventured out “while it was still dark,” showing earnest devotion that would not wait for daylight—echoing Psalm 63:1, “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You.” - Darkness highlights the contrast between the despair of the crucifixion and the dawning hope of resurrection. John’s Gospel often uses light and dark to mark spiritual realities (John 1:5; 8:12). - This pre-dawn setting stresses that nothing about the empty tomb was staged by the disciples; they were not even there yet (John 20:2). - It also fulfills prophetic imagery: “the Sunrise shall visit us from on high… to guide our feet into the way of peace” (Luke 1:78-79). Mary Magdalene went to the tomb - Mary Magdalene, once delivered from seven demons (Luke 8:2), exemplifies a heart transformed by grace. - She remained near Jesus at the cross (John 19:25) and watched His burial (Mark 15:47), so she knew exactly where to go. - Her initiative shows God’s esteem for faithful service, regardless of gender or background; women were the first witnesses of the resurrection (Matthew 28:9-10). - The text singles her out, yet other women accompanied her (Mark 16:1; Luke 24:10). John spotlights Mary to emphasize personal encounter with the risen Lord (John 20:11-18). Saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance - The massive stone sealed by authorities (Matthew 27:60, 66) is now “removed,” a passive verb hinting at God’s action (Matthew 28:2). - No human effort rolled it away; the angel did, not to let Jesus out but to let witnesses in (Mark 16:4; Luke 24:2). - An open tomb testifies to an accomplished resurrection, fulfilling “He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:4). - Mary’s discovery propels the chain of eyewitness testimony: she runs to Peter and John (John 20:2), who in turn find linen wrappings but no body (John 20:6-8). summary John 20:1 captures the first glimmer of resurrection morning. Before sunrise, on Sunday, Mary Magdalene’s steadfast love leads her to an open, empty tomb—God’s dramatic declaration that Jesus has conquered death. The verse sets the stage for every following witness, anchors Sunday worship, and assures believers that the darkest night gives way to the light of Christ’s victory. |
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