New Testament
John 20:2
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She ran to Simon Peter and the other disciple — the one Jesus loved — and told them, "They've taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they've put him!"
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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.
What John 20:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Mary Magdalene discovers that Jesus' body is missing from the tomb. Distressed and confused, she runs to inform Simon Peter and another disciple, often identified as John, whom Jesus loved. Her words reveal her deep concern and uncertainty about what has happened to Jesus. This moment highlights the emotional turmoil and fear of the disciples following Jesus' crucifixion. Mary’s immediate reaction is one of alarm, indicating the gravity of the situation. She does not understand the resurrection yet, showing that the disciples were still grappling with the events surrounding Jesus' death. This verse sets the stage for the revelation of the resurrection, a pivotal moment in Christian faith, emphasizing the initial confusion and despair that preceded the joy of the resurrection.
How to apply John 20:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek the truth in times of confusion and distress. Just as Mary sought out the disciples to share her concerns, we should reach out to others when we face uncertainty, fostering community and support in our faith journeys.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Empty Tomb (John 20:1–10)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 20:2 mean?
John 20:2 describes Mary Magdalene discovering that Jesus' body is missing from the tomb. In her distress, she runs to inform Simon Peter and another disciple, expressing her confusion and concern about what has happened.
What is the significance of Mary Magdalene in John 20:2?
Mary Magdalene plays a crucial role in John 20:2 as the first to discover the empty tomb. Her immediate reaction of alarm highlights the emotional turmoil of the disciples and sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus' resurrection.
What does Mary mean when she says 'They've taken the Lord out of the tomb'?
When Mary says 'They've taken the Lord out of the tomb,' she expresses her fear and confusion over Jesus' missing body. This statement reflects her lack of understanding of the resurrection at that moment.
How does John 20:2 relate to the theme of confusion?
John 20:2 illustrates the theme of confusion as Mary Magdalene is bewildered by the absence of Jesus' body. Her frantic search for answers emphasizes the uncertainty and fear experienced by the disciples after the crucifixion.
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