“Do Not Hold On To Me” - John 20:11-18
Sermon Title: Do Not Hold On To Me
Scripture: John 20:11-18
Introduction:
After Jesus is crucified on the cross, after He breathes His last words – “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit” – it seems as if this is the end.
In today’s passage, we see Mary Magdalene at the entrance to Jesus’ tomb. She expects to find Jesus laid down, but instead it seems like Jesus’ body has been stolen! As she is weeping, she encounters Jesus. Though she wants to hold onto Him, we see Jesus’ response is for Mary to not ‘touch’ or to not ‘hold’ onto Him.
Jesus reveals to Mary His identity and His plans for her and the rest of us through His reply.
Overview:
What Jesus meant when He says ‘Do not touch me, Do not hold on to me’
Let go of your limited view of who I am
Mary is choosing to cling onto her preconceptions of who she sees Jesus is, based on her previous interactions and experiences with Him
But this is incomplete
What happens on Easter points us to seeing there is so much more behind who we (presently) think God or Jesus is
We need a fresh revelation of who He is today! The Son of God, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the Saviour of the world, and the Victorious Risen King! (John Ortberg)
Implications:
Let go of her limited view of her future
Mary was holding on to Jesus through her old lens, thinking Jesus will continue doing what He has been doing up to this point
We do the same thing with Jesus – for we would rather limit how and where we think He is guiding or leading us
But God has something more for us, even when it seems like nothing has changed this year compared to last year
You may have a sight problem, where you can’t see how the situation can or will improve
But God’s plans are great, and He wants you to see with fresh eyes how a future with Him is filled with hope, joy, peace, and power
Are you willing to let Him take you where He is going? Step into the invitation for a fresh, new encounter with Jesus today.
Sermon reflection questions:
What was one of the main sermon points which stood out to you today?
Are you limiting how God is working in your life, to how you’re used to seeing Him work or reveal His plans?
Are you dreaming big with God, when establishing your plans, so that God’s purposes are fulfilled?
