In Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-12, and John 20:1-18, the common theme is the discovery of the empty tomb by female disciples, followed by encounters with angels or Jesus himself. These accounts serve to solidify the belief in the resurrection of Jesus and the fulfillment of prophecy.
The resurrection is a reminder of the power of God over death and sin, and the hope of eternal life for all who believe in Jesus. It is a source of comfort and encouragement for Christians, as it demonstrates the victory of Jesus over the grave. Daily application can be found in living with the assurance of the resurrection, trusting in God's promises, and sharing the message of hope with others. These passages are not found verbatim in other parts of the Gospels, as each account offers unique perspectives on this foundational event in Christianity.
Matthew: 28:1-10
In Matthew 28:1-10, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the tomb of Jesus, only to find it empty with an angel proclaiming that Jesus has risen from the dead. They are instructed to go tell the disciples, and Jesus later appears to them as well. This passage is also found in Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, and John 20:1-18.
Open VerseMark: 16:1-11
In Mark 16:1-11, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome go to Jesus' tomb and find the stone rolled away. They are told by a young man dressed in white that Jesus has risen from the dead and to tell the disciples. This account is not found in the other gospels.
Open VerseLuke: 24:1-12
Luke 24:1-12 describes how the women went to the tomb of Jesus and found it empty, with two men in dazzling clothes telling them that Jesus had risen from the dead. They then told the disciples, who did not believe them until Peter went to see for himself. This topic is also found in the other synoptic gospels, Matthew and Mark.
Open VerseJohn: 20:1-18
In John 20:1-18, Mary Magdalene goes to Jesus' tomb and finds it empty. Jesus appears to her and reveals himself, telling her to go and tell his disciples that he is ascending to the Father. This topic is also found in the other gospels with different details and perspectives on the resurrection of Jesus.
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