In John 20 What Does Mary Magdalenes Encounter With The Risen Christ Teach Us About Personal Relationships With Jesus?
Mary Magdalene’s Encounter with the Risen Christ: Lessons on Personal Relationship with Jesus (John 20)
The twentieth chapter of the Gospel of John presents a deeply moving account of Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the resurrected Jesus. This narrative is rich with theological significance and offers profound insights into what it means to have a personal relationship with Christ. Let’s explore the text and draw out key lessons for believers today.
1. Seeking Jesus in Sorrow and Confusion
Mary Magdalene arrives at Jesus’ tomb early in the morning, overwhelmed by grief and confusion. She is the first to discover the empty tomb and, believing that Jesus’ body has been taken, she weeps outside. Her devotion is evident—she loves Jesus deeply and seeks Him even in her sorrow.
But Mary was standing without at the tomb weeping: so, as she wept, she stooped and looked into the tomb. - John 20:11 ASV
Insight: A personal relationship with Jesus often grows out of an honest, heartfelt seeking—even when we are confused or grieving. Jesus meets us not only in our joy, but also in our pain and questions.
2. Jesus Initiates Relationship—He Calls Us by Name
Mary does not recognize Jesus at first, mistaking Him for the gardener. It is only when Jesus calls her by name—“Mary”—that her eyes are opened and she recognizes Him.
Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turneth herself, and saith unto him in Hebrew, Rabboni; which is to say, Teacher. - John 20:16 ASV
Insight: This moment echoes the Good Shepherd theme, where Jesus knows His sheep by name (John 10:3 ASV). A personal relationship with Jesus is marked by His initiative—He calls us individually, personally, and lovingly. Our recognition of Him comes as He reveals Himself to us.
3. Relationship Over Religion—Encountering the Living Lord
Mary’s immediate response is relational—she calls Jesus “Rabboni” (Teacher) and clings to Him. The encounter is intimate and personal, not merely ritualistic or religious.
Jesus saith to her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended unto the Father: but go unto my brethren, and say to them, I ascend unto my Father and your Father, and my God and your God. - John 20:17 ASV
Insight: True faith is not just about assenting to doctrines or practices, but about knowing Jesus as a living Person. Mary’s encounter illustrates the deeply relational nature of Christianity.
4. Commissioned to Share the Good News
Immediately after encountering the risen Christ, Mary is sent to tell the disciples the good news. She becomes the first witness of the resurrection, entrusted with sharing her testimony.
Mary Magdalene cometh and telleth the disciples, I have seen the Lord; and that he had said these things unto her. - John 20:18 ASV
Insight: A genuine personal relationship with Jesus naturally leads to sharing about Him with others. We are not meant to keep this good news to ourselves, but to proclaim, “I have seen the Lord!”
Biblical and Theological Implications
- Salvation is Personal: Jesus’ resurrection is not just a historical event—it is an invitation to personal faith and relationship (Romans 10:9 ASV).
- God’s Initiative: Our relationship with Jesus begins with His loving initiative. He seeks us, calls us by name, and reveals Himself (1 John 4:19 ASV).
- Transformation and Mission: Meeting the risen Lord transforms us and gives us a mission—to bear witness to Christ (Acts 1:8 ASV).
Conclusion
Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus in John 20 teaches us that a relationship with Christ is personal, initiated by God, grounded in love, and leads to a transforming mission. As we seek Jesus, listen for His voice, and respond in faith, we experience the joy of knowing Him personally and making Him known to others.