Topical Bible: John: The Apostle: Present at the Gravesite of Jesus

◄ John: The Apostle: Present at the Gravesite of Jesus ►

Topical Encyclopedia

John, the Apostle, also known as John the Beloved, holds a significant place in the New Testament as one of Jesus' closest disciples. He is traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of John, the three Epistles of John, and the Book of Revelation. Among the many pivotal moments in his life, John's presence at the gravesite of Jesus is a profound testament to his devotion and faith.

Presence at the Crucifixion and Burial

John's close relationship with Jesus is evident throughout the Gospels. At the crucifixion, John is notably present, standing by the cross alongside Mary, the mother of Jesus, and other women. In John 19:26-27 , Jesus entrusts the care of His mother to John, saying, "Woman, here is your son," and to John, "Here is your mother." This act underscores the deep trust and bond between Jesus and John.

Following the crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus take Jesus' body for burial. While the Gospels do not explicitly mention John's presence at the burial, his close association with Jesus and the early Christian community suggests he would have been deeply involved in the events surrounding Jesus' death and burial.

The Empty Tomb

John's presence at the gravesite becomes more explicit in the account of the empty tomb. On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene discovers the stone rolled away from the tomb and runs to inform Peter and John. In John 20:2-4 , it is written, "So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, 'They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have put Him!' So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. They were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first."

John's arrival at the tomb before Peter highlights his eagerness and devotion. Although he arrives first, he waits for Peter before entering. This act of deference to Peter, despite his own closeness to Jesus, reflects John's humility and respect for the leadership role Peter held among the disciples.

Witness to the Resurrection

Upon entering the tomb, John observes the linen cloths lying there and the face cloth that had been around Jesus' head, folded up separately. In John 20:8 , it states, "Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. And he saw and believed." This moment is significant as it marks the first instance of belief in the resurrection among the disciples, even before they fully understood the Scriptures that Jesus must rise from the dead.

John's belief upon seeing the empty tomb and the grave clothes is a testament to his faith and spiritual insight. His experience at the gravesite becomes a foundational moment for the early Christian proclamation of the resurrection.

Role in the Early Church

John's presence at the gravesite of Jesus and his subsequent belief in the resurrection played a crucial role in shaping the early Christian community. As a leading figure among the apostles, John's testimony and teachings would have been instrumental in spreading the message of the risen Christ.

Throughout his life, John remained a steadfast witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. His writings continue to inspire and guide believers, emphasizing themes of love, truth, and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

John 20:2-8
Then she runs, and comes to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, They have taken away the LORD out of the sepulcher, and we know not where they have laid him.
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