John 20:11-18

Sorrow Turns To Joy

Introduction:

day of the week was marked forever the day of resurrection. John records for us the first two Lord’s days after the resurrection of Christ. The resurrected body of Christ not only displays the glorified body of Christ, it also displays the believer’s new life in Christ by that same glorious power. (Rom.6:5; Phil.3:10, 11) This is the very reason why John pens this fourth gospel. John 20:31

  1. MARY LOST IN SORROW v.11-15

    1. Mary Magdalene

      1. Delivered from seven demons – Mk. 16:9; Luke 8:2; Psa. 40:2

      2. Forgiven much but loves much – Luke 7:47

    2. What was it that brought Mary to the Tomb of Christ?

      1. It was love and love only – (Matt. 27:55-56; Mk.15:40; John 19:25)

      2. She was determined to buy spices to anoint the body of Jesus.

      3. She was determined to view the body of Jesus (Mk.16:1-4

    3. Disappointment

      1. Hoping to find the body of the crucified Christ ( Keddie)

      2. Jesus was dead and gone forever

    4. Angels Speak

      1. Typical of two angels over the Mercy Seat in the Holy of Holies – Exo. 25:20-22

      2. Their visible presence is a testimony to both the triumph of life over death and the revelation of the glory of God. Why are you weeping?


II. MARY AWAKENED IN JOY – v.16

  1. Jesus calls out her name. “Mary!”

1. She responds “Rabboni!”

2. Jesus calls each of us by name – John 10:2, 3; Luke 9:10

3. Can you imagine the look on her face? – I Cor.15:55-56

B Jesus asked her two questions:

1. “Why are you weeping?”

2. “Whom are you seeking?” V.15b (Donald Grey Barnhouse)

I Cor.13:13

C. The Ascension of Jesus –v.17

1. Instruction about worship – Matt.28:9

2. The meaning of “stop clinging to Me” – John 20:7

3. 17 post-resurrection appearances…

4. When Jesus ascends there will be permanent fellowship and worship of

Him. Matt.28:20

D. Two Substantive Points Regarding the Ascension:

1. I ascend to My Father – (Pres. Tense) v.17a Continuing presence of

Christ through the Holy Spirit. – Col.3:1, 2

2. I am ascending – v.17b. This emphasizes Christ as Mediator – I Tim. 2:5

Sub Theme:

      1. We are brought into the family of God as adopted sons and daughters – Gal.3:26; 4:5; Eph.1:5

      2. Spiritual Brotherhood – “My brethren” Psa. 22:22


Conclusion:

  1. Joy in the Morning – Psa. 30:5 If Christ be not raised… I Cor.15:14-19

  2. Since Christ has been raised on the first day of the week (John 20:1; Luke 24:1; John 20:19; I Cor.16:2; Rev.1:10) We celebrate His resurrection every Lord’s day – I Cor.15;57,58


Pastor Nick Iamaio - Reformed Presbyterian Church 207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069 Web Site fultonrpc.org