John 20 - Part II

John 20:19–21 ESV

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”

Question #6

The disciples were hiding behind locked doors when Jesus said, "Peace be with you." How does the resurrection replace fear with peace for Christians today? (vv. 19–21)

John 20:21–23 ESV

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”

Question #7

Jesus said, "As the Father has sent Me, I also send you." How does this connect to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15–16), and what is our part in it? (vv. 21–23)

Question #8

Thomas missed the assembly when Jesus appeared. What can we learn about the value of meeting with fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24–25)? (vv. 24–25)

Hebrews 10:24–25 ESV

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

John 20:26–29 ESV

Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Question #9

Jesus blessed "those who have not seen and yet have believed." How does this verse speak to Christians today, who believe based on the apostles' testimony? (vv. 26–29)

John 20:30–31 ESV

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

Question #10

These things were written "that you may believe" and "have life in His name." How should belief lead to obedience (James 2:24; Acts 2:38)? (vv. 30–31)

James 2:24 ESV

You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.