April 9, 2023: John 20:1-18 The Empty Tomb and Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

This week we discuss the Empty Tomb narrative in John’s Gospel, which is very different from the way the Synoptic Gospels tell the story. Jesus reveals himself as alive to Mary Magdalene, but tells her that he must complete the process of being “lifted up” by ascending to God. We also talk about Calvin’s interpretation which is unfortunately quite heavily influenced by the attitudes of the day toward women. Finally we discuss how to help people have their own encounter with the risen Christ through this passage.