A Personal Encounter with Jesus

Introduction

I invite you to open your Bibles to John 20 verse 1.

We began our service today with the joyful song “Christ the Lord is Risen today.” Celebration, bright colors, happy smiles, maybe even some of us have already received an Easter Basket of goodies. Because, after all, today is Easter, the biggest and happiest day on the church calendar.

But how did that first Easter begin? In the dark, literally since it was before sunrise, but in the dark emotionally as well.

Just a week earlier Jesus and his disciples entered into Jerusalem. On Thursday they ate a passover dinner with Jesus but he told them he was going away, he told them Peter would deny him. He spoke of his broken body, his blood, that his hour had come.

After dinner they went to the garden where Jesus prayed fervently. But the disciples fell asleep.

And then, everything sped up faster than they could control. Judas and guards arrested Jesus. He had a rushed trial, Peter did deny him, Jesus was beaten, crucified. He died and as buried.

Now, on the third day since his death, Sunday morning, Jesus’ followers, including Mary Magdalene chose to face the dark of the early morning and the dark of despair as they went to Jesus’ tomb.

Part I: The Dark of the Empty Tomb (John 20:1-10)

Will you read along in John 20, starting in verse 1.

John 20:1–2 NKJV

1 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.”

Have you ever shown up and found something missing? One year on youth choir tour when we came back to the room where the students had left their belongings they found all of their bags and purses empty. The money inside them was gone. While the youth were singing someone had come and robbed them.

First there was confusion, then a series of questions, then anger, and a bit of sadness.

Now imagine how Mary and the women with her felt when when they arrived to find the tomb was empty, Jesus who had been buried here was gone.

And so they rush back and report the news. Someone has taken way the Lord, and we don’t know where he is.

John 20:3–5 NKJV

3 Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. 4 So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. 5 And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in.

Peter and John race to the tomb. John points out that he was the faster of the two, but when he arrived he waiting, looking in from the outside.

And just like the women had said, the tomb was empty. All John could see were the burial cloths lying there.

John 20:6–7 NKJV

6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself.

Peter may have been slower, but he as still the first to go inside. And he saw the cloth and handkerchief.

What happened here? Where is Jesus?

John 20:8–9 NKJV

8 Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed. 9 For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead.

For the disciples, there was still a fairly long way to go in their journey to see and understand the meaning of the empty tomb. In the following chapters of John we will read about how they came to understand these events, and all that the Old Testament Scriptures said about them. But for now, notice that seed of belief.

The empty tomb that was cause so much grief sparks within John not just hope, but belief.

John had thought it was over, that Jesus had failed, that their friend and teacher was gone and the hope he promised was all a lie.

Maybe the grave clothes reminded him of Lazarus who had been raised, maybe they triggered a memory of Jesus’ promises, or maybe it was something else, but John believed.

John 20:10 NKJV

10 Then the disciples went away again to their own homes.

Part II: The Hope of the Empty Tomb (John 20:11-18)

John 20:11 NKJV

11 But Mary stood outside by the tomb weeping, and as she wept she stooped down and looked into the tomb.

John’s new-found belief and hope did not encourage Mary. Overwhelmed with emotion she stayed behind. Crying.

Tears of sorrow. Jesus has died.

Tears of confusion. What’s going on?

Tears of anger. How could this happen?

And then she looked into the tomb once more.

John 20:12–13 NKJV

12 And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 13 Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.”

What a question the angels had. Why are you crying?

To her the answer is obvious. She had been holding it together so far. She was busy with burial arrangements, and could hold the tears back for a moment, but now? This is just too much. They’ve taken him away!

John 20:14 NKJV

14 Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus.

John is clueing us in on what’s going on Mary turns to see Jesus. But just as Nicodemus and so many others she doesn’t understand at first. She doesn’ recognize Jesus.

Maybe this is because his resurrected body looks different in some way.

Maybe it’s a spiritually imposed blindness.

Or maybe it’s just her vision is blurred by tears.

But she doesn’t recognize Jesus.

John 20:15 NKJV

15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.”

Finally, Mary has found someone who can help with her problem. She’s hoping he can help find her find missing body. It’s a small glimmer of hope. To get Jesus body back so she can mourn him properly. But in that moment this fragile hope she has to cling to.

But Jesus is not offering a small glimmer of hope. He’s offering so much more. Resurrection and life.

John 20:16 NKJV

16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).

This is the moment. One word that changes everything.

He calls her by her name.

And now she knows.

She knows that this her teacher, Jesus.

She knows the love he has for her.

She knows that his promises of life weren’t metaphors or symbols but true.

She knows she’s not alone.

She knows that Jesus is alive.

The reason we still celebrate Easter 2,000 years later is because that was true then for Mary and it’s just as true today.

Just as she had a personal encounter with her Lord who knew her name, we to can experience

that same hope,

that same love,

that same Lord,

because Jesus is still alive.

John 20:17 NKJV

17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’ ”

I’m imagining that she rushed to Jesus and wrapped her arms around him, holding tight, never wanting to let go.

But Jesus had a mission- ascend to Heaven to take his rightful place on the throne.

And he had a mission for Mary too. To share the good news.

John 20:18 NKJV

18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.

And so Mary went and she told the disciples this amazing, good news.

Jesus is not dead. He is risen!

Communion

1. Transition from Sermon

At this time I want to invite our communion servers forward.

We’ve seen in John 20 how Mary encountered the risen Christ.

And today, we respond to that same risen Savior.

We don’t cling to Him physically… but we do remember Him faithfully.

And that’s what we do as we come to the Lord’s Table.

We remember not only that He is risen…but that He gave His body and shed His blood for us— so that we, too, might walk in newness of life.

2. Scripture Reading

“Listen to the words of Scripture from 1 Corinthians 11.”

1 Corinthians 11:23–26 NKJV

23 For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.

3. Self-Examination

“Scripture also calls us to examine ourselves before we take part in communion.

So in this moment, I want to invite you to bow your head and take a few quiet seconds before the Lord—

Confess any sin… Restore any broken attitudes… And prepare your heart to remember Christ rightly.

Let us pray”

4. Prayer

(Pause for 10–20 seconds of silence)

“O Lord, we praise You for the gift of Your Son Christ Jesus who died upon the cross. We do not presume to come to Your table trusting in our own righteousness, but in Your mercy. Forgive our sin, cleanse our hearts, and put a new spirit within us. Make us aware of the presence of our living Lord, in whose name we pray. Amen.”

5. The Bread

As you receive this bread, reflect on Christ’s body broken for you. When everyone has been served, we will eat together.

If you need a gluten-free option, please signal me and I will bring it to you.

(Distribute bread)

(Once everyone has been served) “Take, eat, in remembrance of Christ.” (Eat together)

6. The Cup

As you receive this cup, reflect on Christ’s blood shed for you. When everyone has been served, we will drink together.

(Distribute cup)

(Once everyone has been served) “Drink, in remembrance of Christ.” (Drink together)

7. Gospel Declaration

“As we’ve taken the bread and the cup, we are reminded:

Christ has died. Christ is risen. And Christ will come again.”

I invite Trey to come and lead us in joyfully singing to our risen savior.

John Reading Plan

Week 14 (April 5–11, 2026)

John 18 – Jesus is betrayed, arrested, and brought before Jewish and Roman authorities. Though on trial, He speaks with authority about His kingdom and truth. The chapter shows both the frailty of His followers and the majesty of His obedience to the Father’s will.

☐ Day 1 – John 18:1–14 + Psalm 41:9

☐ Day 2 – John 18:15–27 + Psalm 38:11–15

☐ Day 3 – John 18:28–40 + Isaiah 53:7–9

☐ Day 4 – Reflection: 1 Peter 2:21–25

☐ Day 5 – Reflection: Psalm 2

Sermon Notes & Further Study

1. Quotes & Illustrations

Life Application Bible Commentary

Something caused Mary to turn around, probably a feeling that a person had come up behind her. And indeed, next to the tomb stood Jesus, but Mary didn’t recognize him. Perhaps this was the same kind of blindness that afflicted the two who walked with the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:15–16). Or perhaps Mary’s eyes were so full of tears and her grief so intense that she literally could not see who was standing there.

Bruce B. Barton, John, Life Application Bible Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, 1993), 391–392.

2. Additional Scriptures

For a fuller understanding of Easter morning read:

Matt. 28:1–8

Mark 16:1–8

Luke 24:1–12

3. Additional Questions (Using Logos Study Assistant✨)

Who was Mary Magdalene?

Mary Magdalene came from Magdala, a town on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, and had experienced severe spiritual torment from which Jesus freed her.[1] Luke’s account specifies that seven demons had departed from her[2], though such demonic afflictions typically involved mental or physical disorders rather than moral failure.[2]

The popular imagination has constructed a very different portrait. Christian tradition has often depicted Mary Magdalene as a beautiful woman rescued from an immoral life, but the biblical sources contain nothing to support this characterization.[2] She has frequently been confused with the sinful woman who anointed Jesus in a Pharisee’s home, but this identification contradicts the evidence.[3]

What we actually know centers on her discipleship and faithfulness. Mary Magdalene became a devoted follower of Christ, and John’s Gospel records a special resurrection appearance Jesus made to her.[1] Unlike Jesus’ closest male disciples who abandoned him, many female Galilean followers—including Mary—persistently followed and ministered to him throughout his ministry.[4] She witnessed his crucifixion, was present at his burial, became the first to encounter him in his resurrection body, and announced his resurrection to the apostles.[5]

Her prominence among Jesus’ followers was historically significant. It was unusual for rabbis to teach women or include them in their circle of disciples[1], making Jesus’ inclusion of women in his larger company of followers particularly significant, as women had traditionally been confined to the home in Jewish society.[1]

[1] Allison A. Trites, William J. Larkin, Cornerstone Biblical Commentary, Vol 12: The Gospel of Luke and Acts (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2006), 127–128. [2] Leon Morris, Luke: An Introduction and Commentary, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1988), 3:169. [3] R. C. H. Lenski, The Interpretation of St. John’s Gospel (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House, 1961), 1294. [4] Hans F. Bayer, “Mark,” in Matthew–Luke, ed. Iain M. Duguid, James M. Hamilton Jr., and Jay Sklar, ESV Expository Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2021), 8:692. [5] C. Marvin Pate, 40 Questions about the Historical Jesus, ed. Benjamin L. Merkle, 40 Questions Series (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2015), 24.

How do the four Gospels communicate the events of the the resurrection?

The Gospels record resurrection appearances across different locations and to different recipients, though the accounts emphasize distinct theological themes rather than providing a complete chronological record.

Gospel Accounts by Location

Luke focuses exclusively on Jerusalem appearances, Matthew only on Galilee, while Mark and John describe both locations.[1] Matthew specifically records appearances to the women and then to the eleven disciples in Galilee.[2] John uniquely includes both Jerusalem appearances (chapter 20) and Galilee appearances (chapter 21).[3]

Harmonized Sequence

A comprehensive harmony combining all four Gospels with 1 Corinthians 15 identifies 10 appearances.[1]

(1) To Mary Magdalene in the garden where the tomb was located (Mark 16:9; John 20:11ff.).

(2) To the other women who went from the tomb into the city (Matthew 28:9, 10). This apparently happened early that morning.

(3) To Simon Peter (Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:6). This meeting between Jesus and His faltering disciples who had denied Him was evidently private. We have no record of what was said or what happened. It probably took place during the day.

(4) To the disciples on the road to Emmaus; namely, Cleopas and his companion (Luke 24:13–35; cf. Mark 16:12, 13). This appearance took place “toward evening, and the day is far spent” (Luke 24:29).

(5) To the apostles, except for Thomas, and to some other disciples including the travelers to Emmaus (Luke 24:33–49; cf. Mark 16:14; John 20:19–23). Seeing that the disciples were terrified, thinking they had seen a ghost, Jesus showed them His hands and feet with the nail scars, and He asked them to touch Him to see that He had a body of flesh and bones. But since some of them still did not believe, He requested something to eat. He consumed a piece of broiled fish and a piece of honeycomb while they joyously watched. He thus finished the meal He started to eat with the Emmaus disciples earlier! This was the last appearance on resurrection day and it occurred that evening.

(6) To all the apostles, including Thomas, 8 days after His resurrection (John 20:26–29). Undoubtedly this appearance took place in Jerusalem.

(7) To seven of the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias (the Lake of Gennesaret) (John 21:1ff.).

(8) On the mount in Galilee, to more than 500 brethren (Matthew 28:16–18; 1 Corinthians 15:6).

(9) To James, the brother of our Lord (1 Corinthians 15:7).

(10) On the Mount of Olives at the Ascension to the 11 apostles and perhaps as many as 120 others (Acts 1:9ff.).

Why the Accounts Differ

Understanding these variations requires recognizing two crucial points. Jesus appeared over a period of 40 days, yet only nine appearances are described across all four Gospels—hardly suggesting he appeared once every four and a half days.[3] Each Gospel writer selected which appearances and details would best summarize the themes of his narrative.[3] Common elements across all accounts include the empty tomb, disciples’ initial disbelief, women as first witnesses, and the limited number of recorded appearances.[4]

Scholars have successfully developed harmonies that include all mentioned appearances, demonstrating that apparent discrepancies do not preclude coherent reconstruction.[4] The variations reflect each evangelist’s theological priorities rather than historical contradiction.

[1] Ralph W. Harris, ed., Mark, The Complete Biblical Library: Study Bible (World Library Press, 1986), 497. [2] Michael Green, The Message of Matthew: The Kingdom of Heaven, The Bible Speaks Today (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 314. [3] Grant Osborne, Philip W. Comfort, Cornerstone Biblical Commentary, Vol 13: John and 1, 2, and 3 John (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2007), 284–285. [4] Leon Morris, Luke: An Introduction and Commentary, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1988), 3:351–352.

4. Bible Translation

I’m choosing the NKJV for preaching because I believe it offers the strongest balance of faithfulness to the historic text of Scripture, clarity for modern readers, and continuity with the church’s worshiping tradition.

At the same time, I deeply value other faithful translations—such as the NASB, ESV, CSB, and NIV—which also serve the church well and can enrich our understanding of God’s Word.

5. Commentary Recommendation's

I have found the following commentaries helpful in my study of John.

Introductory

Explore the book in greater depth. Ideal for curious church members, Bible study leaders, and Sunday School teachers who want a clearer understanding of the text without being overwhelmed by technical detail.

1. Holman New Testament Commentary: John by Kenneth O. Gangel

2. Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in John by Matt Chandler and Josh Wredberg

3. Be Alive (John 1-12) and Be Transformed (John 13-21) by Warren Wiresbe

4. The Life Application Bible Commentary: John Editor: Grant Osborne

Intermediate

More advanced, with increased attention to historical context, theological nuances, and interpretive questions. Best for teachers or small group leaders seeking a scholarly yet accessible examination of passages.

1. Signs of the Messiah: An Introduction to John’s Gospel by Andreas J. Köstenberger

2. Cornerstone Biblical Commentary: The Gospel of John by Grant Osborne

3. ESV Expository Commentary: John by James M. Hamilton Jr.

In-Depth Study

These are a bit more advanced than the previous recommendations and go into more depth. These resources are ideal for those preparing lessons or sermons and looking to engage more deeply with the biblical text.

1. New American Commentary: John 1-11 and John 12-21 by Gerald L. Borchert

2. Pillar New Testament Commentary: The Gospel According to John by D.A. Carson

3. New International Commentary on the New Testament: The Gospel According to John by Leon Morris