Scripture Guide

John 20:19-31

Author

Eunice McGarrahan

Keywords (9)

Scripture (3)

Updated

Oct 1, 2024

Preaching Commentary

The Text

Encounters with the Living Jesus

This text from the Gospel of John is so rich and full that it could be divided up into several sermons. The entire chapter is a record of how different disciples (Mary Magdalen, Peter, the beloved disciple, gathered disciples, and Thomas) came to believe in the risen Lord. Those descriptions of personal experiences with Jesus are in themselves edifying. They can help persons realize that there is no set way in which someone experiences Jesus and comes to trust in him.

The text is filled with fulfillment of Jesus’ words to the disciples during his earthly ministry. His pronouncement of peace as he appears fulfills the promise he made in John 14:27 that he gives them a peace…

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Featured Image

Detail of The Incredulity of St. Thomas by Caravaggio (1571-1610) in 1601-2. Oil on canvas. Sanssouci Picture Gallery, Potsdam.

Thomas examines the spear wound in Jesus' side.

Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Author

Eunice McGarrahan

Eunice (“Junior”) McGarrahan serves as the Teaching Pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs, bringing a wealth of experience and theological insight to her ministry. Over the years, Junior has held various roles, including Associate for Theology in the Office of Theology and Worship (PCUSA) and associate pastor at The National Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC. She has also served in pastoral roles in Virginia and Kentucky, further deepening her ministry experience.

Junior’s journey to pastoral ministry was shaped by over thirty years in youth ministry, where she honed her passion for teaching and mentoring young people in their spiritual growth. She later pursued advanced theological education, earning both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theology degree from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Her academic pursuits continued with a Doctor of Ministry from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, where she focused her dissertation on the Eucharistic theology of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting her commitment to exploring the Reformed tradition.

Junior is married and has a son who lives and works in the Washington, DC area. She is deeply rooted in family life, and her home life is central to her pastoral identity.

Known for her thoughtful and engaging teaching, Junior is passionate about exploring the depths of faith and guiding others through their spiritual journeys. She is particularly interested in the intersections of theology, discipleship, and service, and is dedicated to equipping others to live out their faith with depth and conviction. Whether she is teaching, preaching, or mentoring, Junior embodies a life of faithful service and commitment to the church's theological heritage.