John 20:7
“as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.”
John 20:7 Meaning
John 20:7 is a part of the narration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It describes how the burial garments that were used to wrap Jesus’ body were found neatly arranged in the empty tomb, with the face cloth separate from the linen wrappings.
John 20:7 Commentary and Explanation
In John 20:7, we encounter an important moment in the resurrection story of Jesus. This verse takes place in the context of the empty tomb, where the disciples discover the burial cloths left behind by Jesus after His resurrection.
As we examine this verse, it’s important to consider its significance in the broader context of the Gospel of John and the Bible as a whole.
Firstly, we must acknowledge the parallel between John 20:7 and the account of Lazarus’ resurrection in John 11:44. In John 11, Lazarus emerges from the tomb bound in grave clothes. This parallel emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus’ resurrection. Lazarus was brought back to life by Jesus, but Jesus Himself triumphed over death, emerging from the tomb without the need to unwrap His burial cloths. This underscores His divine power and victory over death.
Furthermore, the fact that the burial cloths are left behind holds deep symbolism. These cloths had bound Jesus’ lifeless body, but now they are discarded, no longer needed. This act points to the finality of Jesus’ resurrection and the fulfillment of His mission on Earth. We can cross-reference this with passages like Colossians 2:14-15, which speaks of Jesus nailing our sins to the cross and triumphing over the powers and authorities. The empty tomb, with the discarded burial cloths, is a powerful symbol of the completed work of redemption.
It is also worth noting that the meticulous description of the linen wrappings in John 20:7 serves as evidence of the physical reality of Jesus’ resurrection. His body was not stolen, as some had claimed, but transformed and raised in glory, as Paul discusses in 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. The empty tomb and the neatly folded burial cloths provide tangible proof of the resurrection.
Additionally, the presence of the face cloth that had been around Jesus’ head holds its own significance. In the culture of that time, when a meal was finished, a guest would crumple their napkin to indicate they were finished eating. However, if they intended to return, they would fold their napkin neatly. In this context, the folded face cloth could symbolize that Jesus was not finished but would return. This alludes to Jesus’ promise of His second coming, as mentioned in Matthew 24:30-31 and Acts 1:11.
John 20:7 is a rich and multi-layered verse that highlights the profound truth of Jesus’ resurrection. It emphasizes His divine power, the finality of His redemptive work, the physical reality of His resurrection, and the promise of His return. As we contemplate this verse, let us be reminded of the hope and assurance we have in Christ’s victory over death and His promise of eternal life for all who believe in Him.
Also Read: Philippians 1:3-6 Meaning and Commentary
Context of John 20:7
John 20:7 is a part of the account of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Mary Magdalene had come to the tomb early in the morning and found the stone rolled away. She ran to inform Peter and John, who then came to the tomb to see for themselves. John outran Peter and arrived first at the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there but did not go in. Peter arrived shortly after and went into the tomb, witnessing the linen wrappings and the separate face cloth.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of John 20:7
“The face cloth”: The face cloth was used in Jewish burial customs to cover the face of the deceased. It was a sign of respect and a symbolic gesture in honoring the dead.
“Not lying with the linen wrappings”: The face cloth was not found thrown or discarded among the linen wrappings but was separated and placed in a specific location within the tomb.
“But rolled up in a place by itself”: This detail highlights the deliberate and purposeful nature of Jesus’ resurrection. The orderly arrangement of the burial clothes suggests that Jesus did not arise in a chaotic manner, but rather with intention and control.
Lessons From John 20:7
The separation of the face cloth from the linen wrappings in the tomb signifies Jesus’ victorious resurrection and triumph over death. It symbolizes that Jesus did not simply awaken from death, but that He conquered it entirely. This detail emphasizes Jesus’ sovereignty over life and death and solidifies His divine nature.
Furthermore, the neatly arranged burial clothes also serve as a testament to the meticulous nature of God. Even in the most extraordinary circumstances, God works with precision and order. This can be a source of comfort and encouragement for us. It reminds us that God is in control of every situation in our lives, no matter how chaotic or puzzling it may seem.
Biblical Translations of John 20:7
John 20:7 King James Version (KJV)
“And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.”
John 20:7 English Standard Version (ESV)
“and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself.”
John 20:7 New American Standard Bible (NASB)
“and the face-cloth which had been on His head, not lying with the linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.”
John 20:7 The Message (MSG)
“and the kerchief used to cover his face not lying with the linen cloths but separate, neatly folded by itself.”
John 20:7 New Living Translation (NLT)
“and the cloth that had covered Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but folded up in a separate place.”
John 20:7 Amplified Bible (AMP)
“and the [burial] face-cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the [other] linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.”
Final Thoughts
John 20:7 offers a profound insight into the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The fact that the face cloth was neatly separated from the linen wrappings demonstrates the intentional and purposeful nature of Jesus’ resurrection.
It signifies His victory over death and reminds us of God’s sovereignty and meticulous care in all aspects of our lives. As believers, this verse encourages us to have faith in the power of Christ’s resurrection and the orderliness of God’s plan for us.