In a moment filled with emotion and significance, Jesus speaks to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, telling her, “Do not cling to me.” This profound statement invites deeper reflection on the nature of their relationship and the transformative power of spiritual intimacy.
Why Did Jesus Tell Mary Magdalene, 'Do Not Cling to Me'?
Several interesting things happen in the Bible after Jesus’ resurrection. In one significant event, Jesus speaks to Mary Magdalene and says, “Don’t cling to me.” The depth of this phrase can seem puzzling, particularly when we consider Mary’s faithful following throughout His ministry. Understanding this statement requires a closer look at the context, the meaning behind His words, and the deeper spiritual truths He was revealing.
What Is the Context of Jesus Saying, “Don’t Cling to Me”?
Mary Magdalene encounters the resurrected Jesus, and He delivers His poignant words from John 20:17: “Don’t cling to me.” Mary's journey with Jesus began when He freed her from seven demons (Luke 8:2). After this pivotal moment, she became a devoted disciple, supporting Him throughout His ministry and standing by during His crucifixion (John 19:25). She eagerly sought to anoint His body after His death, only to discover the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. After informing the apostles and assuming His body had been stolen, Mary remained at the tomb, distraught and grieving.
As she wept, two angels appeared to her, followed by an encounter with Jesus, whom she initially did not recognize. When He called her name, “Mary,” she recognized Him, cried out “Rabboni!” in an intimate moment of recognition. It was here that Mary, overwhelmed with joy, reached out to Him, only to hear the response: “Do not cling to me.”
This directive is rooted in the Greek word “haptomai,” conveying a sense of ongoing connection. Mary, having lost Him to death, sought to grasp Him tightly, but Jesus indicated that something essential had changed in their relationship.
Jesus’ response marks a transition—it wasn’t simply about physical closeness but about embracing a new spiritual reality. He states, “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” This signifies a fundamental shift in the relationship dynamics introduced by His resurrection.
What Do Scholars Say About John 20:17?
Scholars have interpreted Jesus’ words from multiple angles, but a central theme arises: He redirects Mary’s understanding of their relationship, connecting it to the broader implications of “My Father and your Father, My God and your God.” Prior to the resurrection, His disciples related to Him on an earthly level. Post-resurrection, their intimacy would evolve into a spiritual relationship fostered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus had preemptively shared how the Holy Spirit would provide a deeper connection after His ascension (John 16:7).
The interaction between Jesus and Mary emphasizes that while He was physically present, the nature of worship would change. His physical presence on earth was temporary, and through His resurrection, worship would transition to a spiritual communion rather than adherence to traditional rituals. This is reinforced when He identifies God as not just His Father but also hers, establishing a new family dynamic facilitated by the resurrection.
Jesus’ command for Mary to “go to my brothers” also underscores a significant theological point. He elevates her role, symbolizing women in ministry's recognition during a time when such acknowledgment was scarce. Mary becomes the first apostle of the Resurrection, tasked with sharing the Good News, thus showcasing a progressive view of women in the early Church.
What Other Physical Interactions Took Place After Jesus’ Resurrection?
Post-resurrection accounts illustrate Jesus’ physical interactions, affirming His bodily resurrection. For example, in Luke 24, two disciples encounter the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus. Though they initially fail to recognize Him, His explanation of the Scriptures stirs their hearts. Upon breaking bread, they finally discern His identity, which reflects both His physical presence and the transformative power of His new, glorified body.
In another instance, Jesus appears to the disciples in a locked room, reassuring them through a touch—He invites them to both observe and experience His physical form. This accentuates that He isn’t merely a ghost; instead, He embodies a resurrected body that transcends human comprehension.
The gospel accounts weave together notions of physicality and the supernatural, demonstrating that while Jesus invites tangible interactions, His ultimate mission transcends mere earthly connections. This culminates in a deeper call to the disciples, fostering their understanding of a new type of relationship—one intimately connected to the Holy Spirit.
What Can We Learn from Jesus' Saying, “Don’t Cling to Me”?
This powerful moment with Mary offers rich lessons about worship and connection with Christ.
1. Spiritual Worship Over Physical Ritual: Jesus teaches that worship should no longer be tied to physicality but instead be rooted in a spirited understanding of who He is. Rituals and earthly structures can hinder true communion with God. The resurrection paved a path to deeper spiritual intimacy, now accessible through the Holy Spirit.
2. Ministry Originating from Intimacy: Jesus exemplifies that authentic ministry emerges from closeness with Him. A relationship with Christ surpasses the mere academic understanding of ministry; rather, it is birthed from an intimate connection. Spiritual experiences empower believers to share and embody His message, illustrating that effective ministry stems from divine relationship rather than just knowledge.
3. Eternal Promise: This moment serves as a glimpse into our promised future. If believers worship the Father in Spirit and truth, they, too, will share in the resurrected life. The physical transformation of Jesus is the first fruits of what awaits believers—one day, they too will receive glorified bodies through Him.
When Jesus says, “Do not cling to me,” He is not rejecting Mary or withholding comfort. Instead, He invites us into a deeper relationship characterized by spiritual truth, intimacy, and a revolutionary understanding of worship. Embrace this call towards a profound connection with Christ, who offers each believer a path towards eternal life and renewal.
Peace.