Easter · Year B
Second Sunday of Easter
April 4, 2027
Overview & Insights
“My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28)
The scene shifts from the tomb in the garden to a locked room somewhere in Jerusalem, and from “early on the first day of the week” (v. 1) to the evening of that first day of the week (v. 19). Despite the faith of the beloved disciple (v. 8) and despite the message brought by Mary Magdalene (v. 18), the disciples as a group are still afraid. Their reaction to her message is not recorded in John’s Gospel, but another tradition appended to Mark by later scribes states that after Mary had seen Jesus she “went and told those who had been with him” and found them “mourning and weeping. When they heard her say that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it” (Mark 16:10; cf. the apostles’ reaction to the report of the women who had seen the angels at the tomb according to Luke 24:11).
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Commentary
Commentary on John 20:19-31 Working Preacher
Working Preacher's Lutheran commentary on Thomas, valid as the RCL Second Sunday of Easter Gospel.
John 20: The Resurrection of Jesus Enduring Word · David Guzik
Guzik's evangelical exposition of the locked room, the breath of the Spirit, and Thomas's confession.
John 20 Commentary Precept Austin
Precept Austin compiles exegetical and word-level notes across the resurrection appearances.
John 20:19 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators assembled on Jesus appearing among the disciples behind locked doors.
John 20:19-31 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed preaching commentary on peace, sending, and the honest faith of Thomas.
Second Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (Sunday Connection) Loyola Press · Sunday Connection
A Catholic reflection and application of the Thomas Gospel for Divine Mercy Sunday.
Background & Word Study
BibleProject: Book of John Overview BibleProject
An animated overview of John's structure and its stated purpose in 20:31 that you may believe.
John 20:19 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek-English interlinear for word study on eirene (peace) and Jesus breathing out the Spirit.
Having our doubts about Thomas in John 20 Psephizo · Ian Paul
Ian Paul's Anglican exegesis questioning whether Thomas is doubting or grieving and disappointed.
The Church Fathers
Sermons & Reflections
Worship & Prayers
Questions preachers ask
What happens when Jesus appears to the disciples?
The risen Jesus comes through locked doors, gives them peace and the Holy Spirit, and a week later invites doubting Thomas to touch his wounds; Thomas confesses him Lord and God.
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