Luke 24:12

Context

Luke 24:12 occurs in the pivotal narrative of Jesus' resurrection. Earlier in the chapter, several women, including Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, went to the tomb early on Sunday morning to anoint Jesus' body. They found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. Two angels appeared to them, declaring that Jesus was not there, but was risen (Luke 24:6). The women returned and reported these astonishing events to the eleven apostles and other disciples, but their words seemed like "idle tales" to the apostles, and they did not believe them (Luke 24:11). It is in response to this report that Peter takes action.

Key Themes

• The Quest for Verification: Despite the initial disbelief of the apostles, Peter's decision to run to the sepulchre demonstrates a spark of curiosity or a desire to verify the women's incredible claim. This highlights the human tendency to seek tangible evidence, even when faced with divine revelation.
• Evidence of the Empty Tomb: Peter's observation of "the linen clothes laid by themselves" is a crucial detail. This was not a chaotic scene of grave robbery, where clothes would likely be discarded or taken. The orderly arrangement of the grave clothes, without the body, served as compelling, though not yet fully understood, evidence of Jesus' resurrection, rather than a mere disappearance.
• Initial Perplexity: Peter's reaction of "wondering in himself at that which was come to pass" indicates a state of profound astonishment and perplexity, rather than immediate, full belief. He saw the evidence but had not yet grasped its full, miraculous implications. This sets the stage for his later personal encounter with the resurrected Christ (Luke 24:34) and the transformative power of faith.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "wondering in himself" translates the Greek verb thaumazo (θαυμάζω), which means to be amazed, marvel, or wonder. It conveys a sense of astonishment and bewilderment. Peter was deeply perplexed by what he saw; it defied his understanding of death and burial. This is distinct from immediate faith, indicating a mind grappling with an unprecedented reality. The KJV's "laid by themselves" emphasizes the distinct and orderly presence of the grave clothes, suggesting they were not simply cast aside.

Significance and Practical Application

Luke 24:12 offers several significant insights for believers today:

• The Process of Faith: Peter's journey from disbelief to wonder, and eventually to profound faith, illustrates that understanding and accepting the truth of the resurrection can be a process. God is patient with our doubts and questions, often providing evidence along the way.
• The Importance of Evidence: While faith is ultimately spiritual, God often provides tangible evidence to support His truth. The empty tomb and the orderly grave clothes were crucial pieces of physical evidence that pointed to the miraculous resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Personal Encounter: Although Peter witnessed the empty tomb, his full conviction came later through a personal encounter with the risen Lord. Similarly, while historical and biblical evidence for the resurrection is strong, a personal relationship with Christ ultimately solidifies faith.

This verse, though brief, paints a vivid picture of the initial human reaction to the incredible news of the resurrection, underscoring both the perplexity and the undeniable evidence that began to dawn on the disciples.