I have seen the Lord
John 20:1-31
Key Verse: 20:18a
“Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’”
1. Read verses 1-10. When did Mary Magdalene go to Jesus’ tomb and what did she find (1)? What did she assume and whom did she tell (2)? How did Peter and the other disciple (John) react? What puzzled them? What is the significance of the empty tomb? What did they need to believe and understand?
2. Read verses 11-18. Describe her interactions at the tomb (11-15). Why couldn’t she recognize the angels or Jesus? How did she recognize Jesus and react? What mission did Jesus give Mary? What was the good news she delivered? What did the good news and Jesus’ message mean to Mary, the disciples, and you?
3. Read verses 19-23. Describe risen Jesus’ meeting with his disciples. How did Jesus come and help the fearful disciples to believe His resurrection? How did this belief change them? What commission, empowerment and authority did the risen Jesus give his disciples (21-23)? How could they (you) carry out the mission?
4. Read verses 24-29. How did Jesus help Thomas? How did Thomas respond (28)? What did Jesus say to him (29)? In what way is Thomas’ confession a climax of this gospel? (28,31) What promise is here for us?
5. For what purpose has the author written this gospel (30-31)? Review how Mary, the disciples and Thomas were changed after meeting the risen Jesus. Why is it so important to believe that Jesus is risen; that he is the Messiah, the Son of God? How has faith in Jesus changed you?