John 20:18

John 20:18

**Meaning & Context** (200 words)

Mary Magdalene’s report in John 20:18 shows the transformative effect of an encounter with the risen Lord on credibility and witness. Mary’s statement—“Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the LORD, and that he had spoken these things unto her”—marks the first explicit post-resurrection testimony to the disciples. This moment underlines the reliability and seriousness of her witness, even in a cultural setting where women’s testimony was undervalued. Her testimony fulfills the risen Jesus’ earlier commission to share the news, and it demonstrates how personal experience of the risen Christ becomes an offered invitation to others to believe. The content of “these things” refers to Jesus’ words just spoken to Mary in the tomb encounter, shaping the disciples’ understanding of what Jesus had accomplished and what would come next.

**Theological Significance** (150 words)

This verse highlights the Lord’s post-resurrection discipling of his followers through personal witness. Mary’s firsthand experience becomes a catalyst for communal belief, bridging solitary encounter and shared faith. It also reinforces the reality of the resurrection as something proclaimed and verified through lived testimony. Mary’s role foreshadows the broader pattern in Acts: testimony followed by communal conviction and faith. Theologically, it affirms Jesus’ ongoing influence and the legitimacy of testimony from all kinds of people who encounter the risen Christ.

**Modern Application** (150 words)

We are called to be credible witnesses in everyday life. If you have encountered Jesus, consider how you share that with others—clear, compassionate, and anchored in your own experience. Mary’s example invites us to be both honest about confusion and eager to tell the good news when Christ meets us in ordinary moments. In practice: name your encounter succinctly, explain what Jesus said or did, and invite others to explore him for themselves. This could be a conversation with a friend, a social media post, or a note of encouragement to a colleague. Your testimony isn’t about perfect words but authentic impact—how Jesus’ presence shifts your decisions and priorities.

**Cross-References**:

- Mark 16:9-11 (Women as first witnesses)

- Luke 24:34 (Disciples’ testimony)

- Acts 1:3 (Jesus appears after resurrection)

- 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (Encourage one another)

- 2 Timothy 1:8-12 (Paul’s testimony and proclamation)