Mark 16:7

KJV

But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G235} go your way {G5217}, tell {G2036} his {G846} disciples {G3101} and {G2532} Peter {G4074} that {G3754} he goeth before {G4254} you {G5209} into {G1519} Galilee {G1056}: there {G1563} shall ye see {G3700} him {G846}, as {G2531} he said {G2036} unto you {G5213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But go and tell his talmidim, especially Kefa, that he is going to the Galil ahead of you. You will see him there, just as he told you."

Berean Standard Bible

But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him, just as He told you.’”

American Standard Version

But go, tell his disciples and Peter, He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 16:7 delivers the angelic instruction to the women at the empty tomb, commanding them to immediately inform Jesus' disciples, specifically mentioning Peter, that the Risen Lord is going ahead of them to Galilee, where they will see Him, just as He had promised. This verse serves as the initial, crucial message of the resurrection, confirming Jesus' triumph over death and setting the stage for His post-resurrection appearances and the continuation of His ministry through His followers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Mark 16:7 is nestled within the climactic resurrection narrative of Mark's Gospel. It follows directly after the women (Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome) arrive at the tomb, find the stone rolled away, and enter to discover a young man in a white robe. This figure immediately announces Jesus' resurrection, stating, "He is not here; see the place where they laid him" ([Mark 16:6](/mark/16-6 "Mark 16:6 - The Angel's Announcement at the Empty Tomb")). Verse 7 then provides the specific, urgent instruction for the women to carry this news, emphasizing both the "disciples" and "Peter" and directing them to Galilee. This command initiates the spread of the resurrection news, leading directly to the disciples' eventual encounters with the risen Christ. The broader context of Mark's Gospel emphasizes Jesus' suffering and death, making the resurrection message a dramatic and essential turning point that validates all He taught and endured.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Mark 16:7 occur on the first day of the week, early in the morning, immediately following the Sabbath. Jewish custom dictated that bodies were prepared for burial shortly after death, but the Sabbath intervened, preventing the women from completing the anointing rituals. Their visit to the tomb was an act of devotion, demonstrating their love and respect for Jesus. The mention of "Galilee" is significant; it was the primary region of Jesus' public ministry, far from the religious and political center of Jerusalem where He was crucified. This geographical shift signals a return to the roots of His ministry and perhaps a new beginning, away from the scene of His suffering and apparent defeat. The disciples, having recently witnessed Jesus' crucifixion and Peter's denial, would have been in a state of profound grief, confusion, and fear, making this message of a pre-arranged meeting a beacon of hope and restoration.
* **Key Themes:** This pivotal verse contributes to several overarching themes in Mark's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the **Confirmation of the Resurrection**, providing undeniable evidence that Jesus has conquered death, fulfilling His own prophecies and validating His divine identity. It also highlights the theme of **Divine Commission and Evangelism**, as the women are given the first explicit instruction to "go your way, tell" the good news, foreshadowing the [Great Commission](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission") given to the disciples. Crucially, the specific inclusion of "Peter" underscores the theme of **Grace, Forgiveness, and Restoration**. Peter had famously [denied Jesus three times](/mark/14-66-72 "Mark 14:66-72 - Peter's Denial of Jesus") just hours before Jesus' crucifixion, and his explicit mention signals Jesus' tender care and unwavering commitment to His fallen disciple, offering a path to reconciliation and renewed purpose. Finally, the instruction to meet in Galilee signifies the **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Jesus had previously told His disciples, "But after I am raised up, I will go before you into Galilee" ([Mark 14:28](/mark/14-28 "Mark 14:28 - Jesus Predicts Meeting in Galilee")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **go your way (Greek, _hypágō'_):** This verb, often translated as "depart" or "go away," implies a movement of withdrawal or retirement, as if sinking out of sight. In this context, it conveys an urgent, decisive departure from the tomb with a specific mission. It's not merely a casual stroll but an imperative to get moving and deliver the message, emphasizing the immediate and personal nature of the women's commission.
* **tell (Greek, _épō'_):** This primary verb means "to speak or say (by word or writing)." It denotes a clear, authoritative declaration. The angel's command to "tell" is not a suggestion but a direct instruction to communicate the profound truth of the resurrection. It highlights the importance of verbal proclamation in spreading the good news, initiating the chain of testimony that would eventually reach the ends of the earth.
* **Peter (Greek, _Pétros'_):** Derived from a word meaning "a piece of rock," this is the name given to Simon by Jesus. His specific mention here is profoundly significant. While Peter was indeed one of "his disciples," singling him out communicates a special, tender act of grace and forgiveness. It assures Peter, who had recently denied Jesus three times, that despite his profound failure, he is not forgotten, excluded, or condemned, but remains a vital part of Jesus' plan and community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But go your way,"**: This opening phrase, introduced by "But" (G235, _allá'_), marks a transition from the startling discovery of the empty tomb and the angel's initial announcement to a direct, imperative command. It signifies the immediate action required of the women, urging them to leave the tomb and embark on their mission.
* **"tell his disciples and Peter"**: This is the core of the commission. The women are to be the first evangelists of the resurrection. The explicit inclusion of "and Peter" is a powerful and tender detail. It highlights Jesus' personal care for Peter, who had recently denied Him, assuring Peter that despite his profound failure, he is still recognized as a disciple and is not excluded from the future plans of the Risen Lord.
* **"that he goeth before you into Galilee:"**: This clause reveals Jesus' pre-arranged plan and destination. "Goeth before" (G4254, _proágō'_) implies leading the way, a shepherd leading his flock. Galilee, the region of Jesus' early ministry, is designated as the meeting place, signaling a return to familiar ground and perhaps a fresh start for the disciples and the nascent movement.
* **"there shall ye see him,"**: This provides the promise of a tangible encounter. The seeing (G3700, _optánomai'_) implies a clear, undeniable vision, confirming the reality of His resurrection. It offers a specific, hopeful expectation for the disciples, moving them from despair to anticipation of reunion.
* **"as he said unto you."**: This final phrase serves as a powerful confirmation of Jesus' faithfulness and foreknowledge. It directly references Jesus' prior prediction (e.g., [Mark 14:28](/mark/14-28 "Mark 14:28 - Jesus Predicts Meeting in Galilee")), reminding the disciples that everything is unfolding according to His divine plan, strengthening their faith in His words and His identity.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 16:7 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Emphasis**, particularly through the specific mention of "and Peter." While Peter was one of the disciples, his individual singling out underscores his unique situation after his triple denial of Jesus. This detail, found only in Mark (and echoed in Luke's account of Peter's personal encounter and John's post-resurrection restoration), highlights Jesus' profound grace and personal attention to His fallen disciple. There is also clear **Foreshadowing**, as the angel's words explicitly recall Jesus' own prophecy in [Mark 14:28](/mark/14-28 "Mark 14:28 - Jesus Predicts Meeting in Galilee") about meeting them in Galilee after His resurrection. This serves to validate Jesus' words and reinforce the divine orchestration of events. The scene also presents a subtle **Irony**: the first witnesses and messengers of the resurrection are not the male disciples, but the women, who were often marginalized in that patriarchal society. This subverts cultural expectations and elevates the role of these faithful women. Finally, **Symbolism** is present in the choice of Galilee as the meeting place. Galilee, the setting of Jesus' early ministry and the calling of the first disciples, symbolizes a return to the origins, a new beginning for the disciples' mission, and a re-gathering of the dispersed flock away from the hostile environment of Jerusalem.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 16:7 is a profound theological statement, encapsulating the triumph of God's redemptive plan and the boundless nature of His grace. It affirms the absolute reality of the resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith, transforming despair into living hope. The command to "go and tell" is a foundational call to evangelism, demonstrating that the good news of Christ's victory is not to be kept secret but proclaimed with urgency. Furthermore, the specific mention of Peter speaks volumes about divine forgiveness and restoration. God's grace extends even to those who have failed spectacularly, offering reconciliation and renewed purpose rather than condemnation. This verse assures believers that even in their deepest moments of failure and shame, God's love and calling remain steadfast, inviting them back into fellowship and service.

* [Mark 14:28](/mark/14-28 "Jesus Predicts Meeting in Galilee")
* [Mark 14:66-72](/mark/14-66-72 "Peter's Denial of Jesus")
* [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "The Great Commission")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 16:7 offers a powerful message of hope, restoration, and commission for every believer. Just as the women were tasked with delivering the most important news in history, we too are called to be messengers of the resurrection. This verse reminds us that the good news of Jesus' victory over death is not merely a historical event but a living reality that transforms lives. It challenges us to consider who in our lives needs to hear this message of hope and how we can faithfully share it. Moreover, Peter's inclusion in the message is a profound testament to God's unfailing grace. No matter how deeply we may have stumbled or how great our failures, Jesus' love and forgiveness are extended to us, inviting us back into His fold and restoring us to His purpose. This should inspire humility, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to walk in obedience, trusting that God can use us even after our shortcomings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the specific mention of Peter's name in this verse speak to your own understanding of God's grace and forgiveness in the face of personal failure?**
* **What "Galilee" might Jesus be calling you to today – a place of new beginnings, renewed focus, or a fresh encounter with Him after a period of difficulty or doubt?**
* **In what ways are you being called to "go your way, tell" the good news of Jesus' resurrection to those in your sphere of influence?**
* **How does the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to meet them in Galilee strengthen your trust in God's faithfulness to His Word in your own life?**

### FAQ

**Why is Peter specifically mentioned in the angel's message, even though he was one of the disciples?**

Answer: Peter is specifically mentioned because of his recent, profound failure: he had publicly denied Jesus three times shortly before Jesus' crucifixion ([Mark 14:66-72](/mark/14-66-72 "Mark 14:66-72 - Peter's Denial of Jesus")). This denial would have left Peter feeling immense shame, guilt, and likely, a sense of exclusion from Jesus' inner circle. The angel's explicit inclusion of "and Peter" is a tender act of divine grace and forgiveness. It signals to Peter that despite his betrayal, Jesus still loves him, has not abandoned him, and intends to restore him to fellowship and service. It's a personal assurance that he is still part of the plan, offering him hope and a path to reconciliation. This detail highlights Jesus' compassionate heart towards those who stumble but are repentant.

**Why did Jesus instruct them to meet Him in Galilee, rather than in Jerusalem where the resurrection occurred?**

Answer: The instruction to meet in Galilee serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it was a direct fulfillment of Jesus' own prophecy made before His death (e.g., [Mark 14:28](/mark/14-28 "Mark 14:28 - Jesus Predicts Meeting in Galilee")). This demonstrates Jesus' foreknowledge and the divine orchestration of events, reinforcing the disciples' faith. Secondly, Galilee was the primary region of Jesus' public ministry, where most of His disciples were from and where He performed many miracles and taught extensively. It was familiar, safe ground away from the hostile religious and political authorities in Jerusalem. Meeting there could symbolize a return to the roots of their calling and a new beginning for the disciples' mission, emphasizing that the gospel was not confined to Jerusalem but would spread from the periphery. It also allowed for a more private and extended period of instruction and commissioning before the disciples were sent out to the world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 16:7, with its urgent message of resurrection and the specific call to "tell his disciples and Peter," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ongoing work of the Risen Lord. Jesus' triumph over death, confirmed by the empty tomb and the angel's words, is the ultimate demonstration of His power and His identity as the Son of God. The promise to meet in Galilee signifies not merely a physical reunion, but a re-gathering of His scattered flock under His leadership, foreshadowing the formation of His Church. The tender inclusion of Peter, who had so recently denied Him, powerfully illustrates the boundless grace of Christ. This act of restoration prefigures Jesus' post-resurrection dialogue with Peter in [John 21](/john/21 "John 21 - Jesus Restores Peter"), where He reinstates Peter and commissions him to "feed my sheep." This divine compassion is central to the gospel: Christ, though perfectly righteous, extends forgiveness and new beginnings to those who have failed, demonstrating that His love for us is not based on our performance but on His unchanging character ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love While We Were Sinners")). The commission to "go and tell" becomes the foundational mandate for the Church, empowered by the resurrected Christ to proclaim His victory and invite all people into His redemptive embrace, a mission that continues until He returns ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Holy Spirit and Witness")). Thus, Mark 16:7 points directly to Christ as the victorious King, the compassionate Shepherd, and the empowering Head of His Church, continually calling His followers to experience His grace and participate in His mission.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 14:28

But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.

Matthew 26:32

But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.

Matthew 28:10

Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

Matthew 28:7

And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

Matthew 28:16

¶ Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

Matthew 28:17

And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

John 21:1

¶ After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he [himself].