John 20:17-18 Jesus said to her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brothers, and say to them, I ascend to my Father… I. TO WHOM IS CHRIST A BROTHER. 1. To the apostles and their associates. 2. To all who do God's will (Matthew 12:46-50). 3. To all who are undergoing sanctification (Hebrews 2:11). II. HOW DOES HE FEEL TOWARDS HIS BRETHREN? 1. He is not ashamed to own the relationship (Hebrews 2:11). 2. He sympathizes with them and loves them (Hebrews 2:17). 3. He identifies Himself with them (Matthew 25:40). III. WHAT BENEFITS DO HIS BRETHREN DERIVE FROM HIS RELATIONSHIP? 1. Teaching (Hebrews 2:12). 2. Providential care (Matthew 25:40). 3. Consciousness of His sympathy, IV. LET US LEARN. 1. To establish this relationship by faith, love, obedience, growth. 2. To appreciate it with the honour, and help it brings. 3. To extend it to others by leading them to salvation. 4. If we are faithful we shall live with our Eider Brother for ever. (J. T. Whiteley.) Parallel Verses KJV: Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. |
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