3260.-A Seeming Contradiction

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Oct 11, 1910

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 37, No. 40.

3260.—A Seeming Contradiction

A question arises over the difference in Matt. 28:9 and John 20:17. The last clause of the first text reads, “And they came and took hold of His feet, and worshiped Him;” while in John 20:17, when Mary sought to touch Him Jesus said, “Touch Me not; for I am not yet ascended unto the Father.” J. P.

The seeming difference between the two scriptures is easily reconciled. Mary’s attempt was immediately after the resurrection. Jesus told her at that time that “I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” That ascension evidently took place immediately, an invisible ascension in which the complete work of Christ should be laid before the Father. When the disciples embraced Him, His work had been accepted, and He had returned, and could thus receive their worship.