Bible Study: John 20:19-31
Encountering the Risen Christ: Doubt, Belief, and Commissioning
Bible Study: John 20:19-31
Encountering the Risen Christ: Doubt, Belief, and Commissioning
Introduction:
John 20:19-31 presents a pivotal moment in the post-resurrection narrative, where Jesus appears to his disciples, offering peace, commissioning them, and addressing Thomas's doubt. This passage is rich for theological reflection as it touches on themes of community, doubt, embodied faith, and the ongoing ministry of Christ's followers.
Context:
This passage occurs on the evening of the first day of the week (Sunday), the day of Jesus's resurrection. The disciples are gathered behind locked doors, fearing the authorities. This setting underscores their vulnerability and fear, but also their nascent community.
Analysis:
The Appearance and Peace (20:19-20):
Jesus appears amidst the locked doors, defying physical limitations and demonstrating his resurrected reality. This challenges rigid boundaries and expectations.
His first words are "Peace be with you," a powerful message of reconciliation and comfort in the face of fear. This aligns with the idea of enabling the church to be a people of love and peace.
He shows them his hands and side, emphasizing the continuity between the crucified and risen Christ. This is an embodied resurrection, not just a spiritual one.
Commissioning and the Holy Spirit (20:21-23):
"As the Father has sent me, so I send you." This establishes a direct link between Jesus's mission and the disciples' (and by extension, our) mission. This ministry is a blessing and a serious responsibility.
Jesus breathes on them and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit." This is a powerful moment of empowerment and commissioning for ministry. This speaks to the desire to live directly out of God's vibrant presence.
The authority to forgive or retain sins is given. This is not about individual power but about the community's role in reconciliation and restoration.
Thomas's Doubt and Jesus's Response (20:24-29):
Thomas's doubt is presented honestly. He requires tangible proof before believing. This validates doubt as a part of the faith journey.
Jesus appears again a week later and directly addresses Thomas's needs. He invites Thomas to touch his wounds. This shows God meeting people where they are.
"Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." This broadens the scope of faith beyond physical evidence. It acknowledges different ways of knowing and believing.
Purpose of the Gospel (20:30-31):
John states the purpose of his Gospel: "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."
Themes:
Community and Reconciliation: The disciples are gathered together, emphasizing the importance of community in the face of fear and doubt. Jesus's message of peace is central to reconciliation within the community and with the world.
Embodied Faith: Jesus's physical appearance and the invitation to touch his wounds highlight the importance of embodied experience in faith. This is not just abstract belief but a tangible encounter with the risen Christ.
Validation of Doubt: Thomas's doubt is not condemned but addressed. This acknowledges that doubt is a normal part of the faith journey and that God meets us in our doubts.
Commissioning for Ministry: The disciples are commissioned to continue Jesus's mission in the world. This is not just for a select few but for all believers. It recognizes special gifts and calls to work among your people.
Inclusivity and Diversity: "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe" broadens the scope of faith, welcoming those who come to belief through different paths. This points to the importance of restoration.
Social Justice: The themes of peace, reconciliation, and commissioning connect to social justice concerns. The ministry of Christ's followers involves working for justice and liberation in the world.
Discussion Questions:
How does Jesus's appearance amidst locked doors challenge our understanding of boundaries and limitations?
How can we create communities of peace and reconciliation in the face of fear and division?
How does Thomas's story validate doubt in our own faith journeys?
What does it mean for us to be commissioned to continue Jesus's mission in the world today?
How can we embody our faith in tangible ways, following Jesus's example?
How can we apply the themes of John 20:19-31 to contemporary social justice issues?
Conclusion:
John 20:19-31 offers a powerful message of hope, peace, and commissioning. We can see this passage as validating doubt, emphasizing embodied faith, and calling us to participate in Christ's ongoing mission of reconciliation and justice in the world. It's a call to move beyond locked doors of fear and embrace the risen Christ who empowers us with the Holy Spirit.