Scripture: John 2:22 (ESV) – “When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.”
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights this verse as a significant turning point for the disciples. While they initially did not understand the full meaning of Jesus’ words about the temple, His resurrection brought clarity and confirmation. In that moment, they remembered His teaching and believed both the Scriptures and Jesus’ words, seeing how everything fit into God’s redemptive plan.
Ryle emphasizes that the resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. Jesus’ prediction of His resurrection and its fulfillment validated His claims as the Messiah and the Son of God. The disciples’ remembrance of His words reveals the importance of holding onto the teachings of Christ, even when their meaning isn’t immediately clear. Over time, the Holy Spirit brings understanding and deepens faith.
This verse also underscores the harmony between Scripture and Jesus’ teaching. Ryle notes that the disciples’ belief was rooted in both the prophetic promises of the Old Testament and the words of Christ. This reminds us that faith is strengthened by studying Scripture and seeing how it points to Jesus.
For us, this verse invites reflection on the centrality of the resurrection in our faith. It encourages us to trust in God’s Word, even when we don’t fully understand, and to allow the truth of the resurrection to transform our belief and understanding of Christ’s mission.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the resurrection of Jesus deepen your faith and understanding of His mission?
- Are there teachings of Christ or parts of Scripture you find difficult to understand? How can you trust that God will bring clarity in His timing?
- How does seeing the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus encourage you to trust in God’s promises?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for fulfilling Your promise to rise from the dead and for revealing the truth of Your mission to us through Your Word. Help us to trust in Your teachings and to hold onto them, even when we don’t fully understand. Teach us to see the harmony between Scripture and Your words, and may the power of Your resurrection strengthen our faith and transform our lives. In Your name, Amen.
*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 