The account of Peter and John at the tomb is a significant event in the New Testament, recorded in the Gospel of John. This narrative highlights the discovery of the empty tomb following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of Christian faith. The passage is found in John 20:1-10.

Context and Background

The event takes place early on the first day of the week, following the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. Mary Magdalene visits the tomb while it is still dark and finds the stone rolled away from the entrance. Alarmed, she runs to inform Simon Peter and the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, traditionally understood to be John.

The Race to the Tomb

Upon hearing Mary Magdalene's report, Peter and John set out for the tomb. The Gospel of John provides a vivid description of their urgency and eagerness. John 20:3-4 states, "So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first."

John's account emphasizes the speed and determination of both disciples, with John arriving first but hesitating to enter. This detail underscores the human emotions and reactions of the disciples in the face of the extraordinary events unfolding.

The Discovery

John 20:5-7 continues, "He bent down and looked in at the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Simon Peter arrived just after him. He entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying there. The face cloth that had been around Jesus’ head was rolled up, lying separate from the linen cloths."

Peter's entrance into the tomb and his observation of the grave clothes are crucial. The orderly arrangement of the linen cloths suggests that Jesus' body was not stolen, as grave robbers would not have taken the time to unwrap and neatly arrange the burial garments. This detail serves as an early indication of the resurrection.

John's Belief

After Peter, John also enters the tomb. John 20:8 records, "Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. And he saw and believed." This moment is pivotal, as it marks the first instance of belief in the resurrection among the disciples. John's belief is based on what he sees, even before encountering the risen Christ.

Understanding the Scriptures

Despite their belief, the disciples did not yet fully comprehend the scriptural prophecies concerning the resurrection. John 20:9 notes, "For they still did not understand from the Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead." This verse highlights the gradual unfolding of understanding and revelation among Jesus' followers.

Return to Their Homes

The narrative concludes with John 20:10 : "Then the disciples returned to their homes." This return signifies a moment of reflection and anticipation as the reality of the resurrection begins to take hold in their hearts and minds.

Significance

The account of Peter and John at the tomb is a profound testament to the authenticity of the resurrection. It captures the initial confusion, the dawning realization, and the burgeoning faith of the disciples. This event sets the stage for the subsequent appearances of the risen Christ and the transformative impact of the resurrection on the early Christian community.