In the Gospel of John, chapter 20, verse 21, we find a powerful and concise statement from the resurrected Jesus to his disciples: “Again Jesus said to them, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.'” This verse, often referred to as John 20:21, is rich in meaning and serves as a cornerstone for understanding the mission of the Church and the role of believers. Let’s delve into the depths of this scripture to unpack its significance for contemporary Christians.
Context of “Peace Be With You” in John 20:21
The setting of John 20:21 is crucial to grasping its weight. Jesus appears to his disciples in a locked room. They are huddled together, fearful and likely still reeling from the trauma of the crucifixion. The phrase “Again Jesus said to them” suggests this isn’t the first time Jesus has offered them peace in this post-resurrection encounter, highlighting the crucial nature of this gift. “Peace be with you” (Shalom in Hebrew) is more than a casual greeting; it’s a profound declaration of wholeness and restoration. In this context, it’s Jesus offering reassurance and calming their fear. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a divine tranquility that addresses their deepest anxieties and prepares them for what is to come. It echoes the peace Jesus promised in John 14:27, a peace that transcends worldly understanding and circumstance.
“As the Father Has Sent Me”: Divine Authority and Mission
The subsequent part of John 20:21, “As the Father has sent me,” immediately elevates the disciples’ understanding of their impending mission. This phrase anchors Jesus’ authority in the divine will of God the Father. Throughout the Gospel of John, the theme of the Father sending the Son is paramount, emphasizing the unity of purpose within the Trinity. Jesus’ mission was divinely ordained, characterized by unwavering obedience, boundless love, and ultimate sacrifice. He was sent to reveal the Father, to reconcile humanity to God, and to offer salvation. This part of John 20:21 reminds us that Jesus didn’t act independently; his every action was in alignment with the Father’s will. Referencing Old Testament prophecies, like Isaiah 61:1, further emphasizes the preordained nature of this mission.
“So Also I Am Sending You”: The Great Commission Extended
The declaration, “so also I am sending you,” is the pivotal point of John 20:21. It’s not just a statement of delegation; it’s a commissioning, an extension of Jesus’ own divine mission to his followers. Just as the Father sent Jesus, now Jesus sends his disciples into the world with the same purpose and authority. This is not merely a suggestion, but a direct command, laying the foundation for the Christian mission throughout history. This commissioning in John 20:21 is intimately linked to the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” The sending in John 20:21 emphasizes the continuity of Jesus’ work through his disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as further elaborated in the verses that follow in John 20. They are to embody the same characteristics that defined Jesus’ ministry: love, service, sacrifice, and obedience to God’s will.
Key Teachings from John 20:21
John 20:21 encapsulates several crucial teachings for Christians:
- Peace as a Foundation: Jesus’ repetition of “Peace be with you” underscores that divine peace is not just a greeting, but the very foundation from which believers are to operate. It’s a prerequisite for effective mission and ministry.
- Divine Commissioning: Our mission as believers is not self-initiated but divinely commissioned. Just as Jesus was sent by the Father, we are sent by Jesus. This understanding provides authority, purpose, and direction to our lives.
- Empowerment for Mission: While not explicitly stated in John 20:21, the subsequent verses (John 20:22-23) detail the impartation of the Holy Spirit, highlighting that this sending is not in human strength alone, but through divine empowerment.
- Continuity of Christ’s Mission: John 20:21 emphasizes that the mission of Jesus doesn’t end with his earthly ministry. It continues through his followers. We are called to be active participants in extending God’s kingdom.
- Responsibility and Privilege: Being sent by Jesus is both a profound responsibility and an incredible privilege. It calls for dedication, obedience, and a willingness to embrace the challenges and joys of Kingdom work.
Conclusion: Embracing the Sending of John 20:21
John 20:21 is more than just a verse in scripture; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder to every believer that we are sent into the world just as Jesus was sent. Understanding and embracing this “sending” is central to living out our Christian faith. It calls us to live lives of peace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and committed to carrying forward the mission of reconciliation and love that Jesus initiated. Reflecting on John 20:21 encourages us to ask: How are we living out this commission in our daily lives? Are we extending the peace of Christ and sharing the message of the Gospel as those who have been sent? The answer to these questions shapes our effectiveness as followers of Christ in today’s world.
