John 20:9
For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
John 20:9 (KJV)
Context
John 20:9 describes the morning of Jesus’ resurrection. Mary Magdalene had reported that the tomb was empty, and Peter and the other disciple ran to see it for themselves. They saw the linen wrappings lying there, yet they still did not understand the Scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead.
Meaning
The phrase “the scripture” points to the Old Testament writings, which contained prophecies and foreshadowings of the Messiah’s resurrection. The disciples had access to these Scriptures, but they did not yet grasp their meaning. Their lack of understanding was not from a lack of evidence; the empty tomb and the grave clothes were before them. It was a failure to connect what they saw with what God had already spoken.
Biblical connections
Psalm 16:10 is a clear Old Testament prophecy that God would not abandon His Holy One to the grave, a promise fulfilled in Christ’s resurrection. The disciples’ ignorance shows that even those closest to Jesus needed help to understand the full scope of His mission. Later, after His resurrection, Jesus opened their minds to understand the Scriptures (Luke 24:45), and they remembered and believed (John 2:22).
Application
This verse encourages believers to study the Word of God diligently and to rely on the Holy Spirit for understanding. The disciples had the Scriptures but did not fully comprehend them; we too can read without grasping the depth of what God has revealed. Spiritual understanding often comes progressively as we pray, meditate on Scripture, and fellowship with other believers. The resurrection was not an afterthought but the fulfillment of what God had already spoken.
Reflection
John 20:9 invites us to examine our own understanding of God’s Word. Do we read the Scriptures with expectation, asking God to open our minds to His truth? The disciples’ blindness was temporary; through divine revelation, they came to believe. We can trust that God, who revealed the resurrection to them, will also guide us into a deeper comprehension of His promises.
