John 20:10

John 20:10 (KJV) states, "Then the disciples went away again unto their own home." This concise verse marks a pivotal moment in the Easter narrative, highlighting the initial reaction of Peter and John after their discovery at the empty tomb.

Context

This verse immediately follows the hurried visit of Peter and the "other disciple" (John) to Jesus' tomb. They had been alerted by Mary Magdalene, who reported the stone was rolled away and the body gone. Upon entering the tomb, they saw the linen wrappings lying there and the napkin folded neatly, suggesting a departure rather than a theft. While John "saw, and believed" (John 20:8), this belief was likely an understanding that the tomb was indeed empty, not yet a full comprehension of the resurrection. Their subsequent return home indicates they were still processing the bewildering events of that first Easter morning, a stark contrast to Mary Magdalene, who remained at the tomb and soon had the privilege of being the first to encounter the risen Christ.

Key Themes

• Initial Bewilderment and Limited Understanding: Despite witnessing the empty tomb and the orderly grave clothes, the disciples' immediate reaction was to return home. This suggests they had not yet fully grasped the astonishing reality of Jesus' resurrection, underscoring the human tendency to retreat to the familiar when faced with the extraordinary.
• The Journey of Faith: Their departure illustrates that understanding spiritual truths can be a gradual process. Even those closest to Jesus needed time and further revelation to fully comprehend the implications of His victory over death.
• Contrast in Response: This verse subtly contrasts the disciples' departure with Mary Magdalene's persistent seeking. While the men left to process, Mary remained, demonstrating a fervent devotion that led to a profound personal encounter with the Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "went away again unto their own home" (Greek: apēlthon palin pros heautous) emphasizes a return to their familiar dwelling or space. The word palin, meaning "again," reinforces the idea of retreating to a previously known place, perhaps for reflection or simply because they did not know what else to do. It signifies a pause in their active investigation, a moment of withdrawal to absorb the incredible and unexplainable discovery.

Practical Application

John 20:10 offers a relatable insight into the human experience of faith. It reminds us that:

• Understanding Can Be Gradual: It's natural not to immediately grasp profound spiritual truths or the full implications of God's work. Faith often grows incrementally, through reflection, prayer, and further revelation.
• Processing is Part of Belief: When faced with overwhelming or seemingly impossible truths, a period of processing, even withdrawal, can be a necessary step before full comprehension and acceptance.
• Persistence Matters: While the disciples went home, Mary Magdalene's steadfastness led to a direct encounter. This highlights the value of persistent seeking and devotion, even when answers aren't immediately clear. The disciples would, of course, soon encounter the Risen Lord themselves, as seen later in John 20:19.