John 20:3 (KJV)

What does John 20:3 mean?

John 20:3 describes how Peter and another disciple, after hearing news about Jesus’ tomb, immediately left and went together to the burial place. The verse simply tells us that both men set out for the tomb upon receiving the report.

This moment takes place early on the first day of the week, after Mary Magdalene has told the disciples that the stone has been removed from Jesus’ tomb. The "other disciple" is traditionally understood to be John, the author of this Gospel. The verse sets the scene for what they will discover at the tomb and shows their urgent response to the surprising news.

The Greek behind John 20:3

• "ἐξῆλθεν" (exēlthen, "went forth"): This word carries the sense of leaving a place with purpose or urgency, highlighting how Peter and the other disciple quickly set out after hearing the news.
• "ἕτερος" (heteros, "other"): The Greek word used here means "another of a different kind," which may subtly suggest a distinction between Peter and the other disciple, rather than just "another" in a general sense.
• "μαθητής" (mathētēs, "disciple"): This word means "learner" or "follower," emphasizing that both men were close followers of Jesus, not just casual acquaintances.
• "ἐλθὼν" (elthōn, "came"): This verb often implies arriving at a destination with intention, reinforcing their purposeful journey to the tomb.
• "μνημεῖον" (mnēmeion, "sepulchre"): This word refers specifically to a tomb or burial place, grounding the story in the concrete reality of Jesus’ burial.

Why John 20:3 matters

• John 20:3 highlights the immediate and personal reaction of Jesus’ closest followers to the news of the empty tomb, showing their concern and confusion.
• The verse sets up the next part of the story, where Peter and the other disciple will witness the empty tomb for themselves, which is a key moment in the resurrection account.
• By naming both Peter and the "other disciple," the verse draws attention to their roles as eyewitnesses, which is important for the credibility and testimony of the resurrection narrative.