What does "do not cling to Me" teach about Jesus' resurrection mission? Setting the Scene Mary Magdalene stands weeping outside the empty tomb. Suddenly, the risen Jesus speaks her name. Overwhelmed, she falls at His feet in adoration. The Key Verse “Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to My brothers and tell them that I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God.’ ” (John 20:17) Why Jesus Says “Do Not Cling to Me” • His resurrection mission was still unfolding; He would shortly ascend and present His finished work in heaven (Hebrews 9:24). • Mary’s impulse to hold Him revealed a desire to keep the old, familiar fellowship. Jesus redirects her to embrace a new, Spirit-empowered relationship (John 14:16-18). • Physical attachment could delay her obedience to carry the first eyewitness testimony (“go to My brothers”). • The command highlights that Christ’s presence would soon be universal, not limited to one place or person (Matthew 28:20). Clinging vs. Commission Mary’s worship was genuine, yet Jesus pivots her from devotion that stays put to devotion that goes and tells. Resurrection life moves outward: • Good news must be shared (Romans 10:14-15). • Disciples are to be witnesses rather than museum guards of a private experience (Acts 1:8). Ascending to the Father—Mission Completed and Continuing • Ascension completes redemption: the risen Lord enters heaven as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). • Ascension initiates the next phase: sending the Holy Spirit (John 16:7; Acts 2:33). • His words “My Father and your Father” announce the new family reality secured by the cross (Galatians 4:4-7). Touch Permitted, Possession Forbidden Later that same resurrection morning other women “took hold of His feet and worshiped Him” (Matthew 28:9). Touch was not off-limits; the issue was possession. Jesus will not be monopolized—His glory is to be proclaimed. From Touch to Testimony Mary becomes the first herald of the resurrection (John 20:18). Her brief release of His feet results in the rapid spread of His fame. Key Takeaways • The resurrection is dynamic; it propels believers into witness, not retreat. • Jesus’ physical departure ensures His spiritual nearness through the Spirit. • Worship that clings must mature into mission that goes. • Our relationship to the risen Christ is familial—“My Father and your Father”—secured forever by His finished work. |
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