New Testament
John 20:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. He saw and believed.
Compare translations
Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
What John 20:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the moment when the other disciple, often identified as John, enters the tomb after Peter. He had arrived first but waited for Peter to enter first. When he finally goes in, he observes the empty tomb and the burial cloths lying there. This sight leads him to believe in the resurrection of Jesus. His belief is significant because it marks a turning point in the disciples' understanding of Jesus' death and resurrection. Unlike the others who may have been confused or fearful, John’s immediate belief shows a deep faith and understanding of the events unfolding. This moment emphasizes the importance of personal experience in faith; seeing the evidence for oneself can lead to a profound belief. John's reaction also sets the stage for the disciples' mission to spread the news of the resurrection, which is central to Christian faith.
How to apply John 20:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek personal experiences of faith. Just as John believed upon seeing the empty tomb, we too can find our faith strengthened through personal encounters with God. Reflect on moments in your life where you have seen evidence of God's work.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Empty Tomb (John 20:1–10)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 20:8
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 20:8
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 20:8 mean?
John 20:8 describes the moment when the disciple, often identified as John, enters the empty tomb after Peter. His observation of the burial cloths leads him to believe in the resurrection of Jesus, highlighting a personal encounter with evidence that strengthens faith.
What is the significance of belief in John 20:8?
In John 20:8, belief is significant because it marks a turning point for the disciples regarding Jesus' resurrection. John's immediate faith upon seeing the empty tomb illustrates the importance of personal experience in understanding and accepting the truth of Jesus' resurrection.
Who is the other disciple in John 20:8?
The other disciple in John 20:8 is traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel. He is noted for arriving at the tomb first but allowing Peter to enter before him.
How does John 20:8 relate to personal faith?
John 20:8 illustrates how personal experiences can lead to deeper faith. Just as John believed after seeing the empty tomb, individuals today can strengthen their faith through their own encounters with God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.