Encountering the Risen Christ: A Devotional on John 20:1-21:25
October 19
Scripture: John 20:1-21:25 (NIV)
In John 20:1-21:25, we encounter the powerful accounts of Jesus' resurrection and His post-resurrection appearances to His disciples. This passage holds significant importance in the Christian faith as it captures the pivotal moment of Jesus conquering death and the subsequent commissioning of His disciples to continue His work on earth. Through these encounters, we witness the transformative impact of encountering the risen Christ and the commissioning of His followers to spread the gospel message to the ends of the earth.
One important verse from this passage is:
John 20:21 (NIV):
"Again Jesus said, 'Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.'"
In this verse, Jesus commissions His disciples to continue the mission that He began during His earthly ministry. He sends them out as His representatives, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to carry the message of salvation to all people.
This commissioning is not limited to the disciples of that time but extends to all believers throughout history, including us today. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, sharing His love, grace, and truth with those around us.
The encounters recorded in John 20:1-21:25 serve as a reminder of the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ. Mary Magdalene's encounter with Jesus at the tomb moves her from sorrow to joy as she realizes that Jesus is alive.
The disciples' encounter with the resurrected Jesus in the locked room fills them with peace and joy as they receive His commissioning and are empowered by the Holy Spirit. These encounters remind us that Jesus is alive and present with us today, offering us peace, hope, and new life.
As we reflect on this passage, we are challenged to consider how we respond to the reality of Jesus' resurrection in our own lives. Do we approach Him with doubt and skepticism, like Thomas, or do we respond with faith and worship, like Mary Magdalene and the disciples? Do we allow the reality of Jesus' resurrection to transform our lives and empower us for His mission in the world?
Just as Jesus commissioned His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, so too are we called to be His witnesses in the world today. We are called to share the good news of salvation with those around us and to demonstrate His love through our words and actions. May we be faithful ambassadors for Christ, proclaiming His truth and leading others into a relationship with Him.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the reality of Jesus' resurrection and the hope that it brings. Empower us by Your Spirit to be faithful witnesses for Christ in the world, sharing His love and truth with those around us.
Give us boldness and courage to proclaim the gospel message and to make disciples of all nations. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
