King James Version

What Does John 20:3 Mean?

John 20:3 in the King James Version says “Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.” — study this verse from John chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.”

John 20:3 · KJV

Context

1

The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

2

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.

3

Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.

4

So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre.

5

And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple—John pairs the two throughout his Gospel, contrasting Peter's impulsive boldness with the beloved disciple's reflective insight. The particle 'therefore' (οὖν, oun) shows this is response to Mary's report, not independent investigation.

The simple narrative—no theological commentary yet—builds dramatic tension. John's Gospel excels at showing before explaining (cf. 2:22, 12:16). Came to the sepulchre (ἤρχοντο εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, ērchonto eis to mnēmeion)—the imperfect tense suggests ongoing action: 'they were coming,' emphasizing the journey's suspense.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Garden Tomb location, if accurate, was only 10-15 minutes from the upper room area. Rock-cut tombs outside city walls were standard for wealthy burials (Joseph of Arimathea provided this tomb, 19:38-41). Running to a tomb would have drawn attention, but the early hour and recent Passover crowds may have provided cover.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does John include seemingly mundane details like 'they came to the sepulchre' in resurrection narrative?
  2. What does the immediate, unquestioning response of both disciples reveal about their relationship with Mary and her credibility?
  3. How does the pairing of different personality types (Peter and John) strengthen the witness to resurrection?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
Ἐξῆλθεν1 of 13

“went forth”

G1831

to issue (literally or figuratively)

οὖν2 of 13

“therefore”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ὁ3 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Πέτρος4 of 13

“Peter”

G4074

a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle

καὶ5 of 13

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὁ6 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄλλος7 of 13

“that other”

G243

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

μαθητής8 of 13

“disciple”

G3101

a learner, i.e., pupil

καὶ9 of 13

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἤρχοντο10 of 13

“came”

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

εἰς11 of 13

“to”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὸ12 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μνημεῖον13 of 13

“the sepulchre”

G3419

a remembrance, i.e., cenotaph (place of interment)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 20:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 20:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 24:12

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