John 20:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 20:2
2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.
Chapter Context
John 20 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, discipleship, grace. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 20:2
2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.
Analysis
She runneth (τρέχει, trechei)—present tense conveys breathless urgency. Mary reports to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved—John's characteristic self-reference, written with humility decades later. The pairing echoes their partnership throughout the passion narrative (13:23-24, 18:15-16).
They have taken away the Lord (Ἦραν τὸν κύριον, Ēran ton kyrion)—even in panic, Mary uses the resurrection title 'Lord' (κύριον, kyrion), not 'teacher' or 'master.' Her assumption of body-theft shows that resurrection wasn't expected or invented—it shattered existing categories. We know not where they have laid him—the plural 'we' suggests other women were present (cf. the Synoptics), though John focuses on Mary's experience.
Historical Context
Jewish burial customs required anointing within three days. Mary's concern about the body's location reflects this urgency. Roman authorities sometimes removed crucifixion victims to prevent veneration. The disciples' scattered state after Gethsemane explains their separation—they weren't gathered as a group, requiring Mary to seek them out individually or in small clusters.
Reflection
- Why does initial evidence of resurrection (empty tomb) produce confusion rather than faith?
- What does Mary's immediate turn to the disciples reveal about the early Christian community's interdependence?
- How does her unexpected use of 'Lord' (κύριον) even while assuming theft hint at faith deeper than intellectual understanding?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: John 20:13
- Love: John 13:23, 19:26, 21:7, 21:20
- Parallel theme: John 21:24