Mark 16:7 – “But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the angel gives the women specific instructions after revealing that Jesus has risen. They are to go and inform the disciples—and specifically Peter—that Jesus will meet them in Galilee. The mention of Galilee is significant because it is where Jesus had done much of His teaching and ministry and where He had previously promised to meet them after His resurrection (Mark 14:28).
The inclusion of Peter is meaningful. Peter had recently denied Jesus three times (Mark 14:66-72), likely leaving him feeling broken and disqualified. But the angel’s message makes it clear that Peter is still part of the plan. Jesus’ resurrection is not just about power over death—it’s about restoring broken relationships and offering grace.
Historical Context
Galilee held special significance for Jesus and His disciples. It was the region where Jesus first called them to follow Him (Mark 1:16-20) and where many of His miracles and teachings took place. By directing them back to Galilee, the angel was guiding them to a place of familiarity and significance, where they would experience the fulfillment of Jesus’ promises.
During this time, messengers were commonly used to deliver important news. The angel’s instructions to “go and tell” follow that pattern, but the news they carried was extraordinary. The resurrection message wasn’t just any announcement—it was life-changing, and it would soon be proclaimed to the whole world.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological truths. First, it shows that Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a display of power—it’s an invitation to relationship and reconciliation. By mentioning Peter specifically, the angel points to the grace of God, which restores those who have fallen. No failure is beyond God’s ability to forgive and redeem.
The command to go and tell the disciples also reveals that the resurrection is meant to be shared. The message of Jesus’ victory over death isn’t something to keep private—it’s a message of hope meant for the world. This is the beginning of the Great Commission, which Jesus will later give to His followers (Matthew 28:19-20).
Literary Analysis
Mark 16:7 is a turning point in the resurrection narrative. Up until this moment, the women are shocked and afraid. The angel’s words shift the focus from fear to action. The command to “go, tell” creates a sense of urgency and purpose, emphasizing that the resurrection demands a response.
The angel’s mention of Peter also serves as a literary device to highlight God’s grace. By singling out Peter, Mark’s Gospel draws attention to the fact that God’s plan includes restoring those who have failed. This small detail carries a big message: no one is beyond God’s forgiveness.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 14:28 – Jesus predicts that after His resurrection, He will meet His disciples in Galilee.
- Matthew 28:10 – Jesus Himself later tells the women to inform the disciples that He will meet them in Galilee.
- John 21:15-17 – Jesus restores Peter after his denial, affirming His grace and Peter’s role in the early church.
- Luke 24:34 – The disciples confirm that Jesus appeared to Peter, showing His personal attention to those who feel unworthy.
- Isaiah 55:7 – A call for the wicked to return to God, promising abundant pardon—a theme reflected in Peter’s restoration.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern Christians, this verse is a reminder that Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just an event in history—it’s a call to action. Like the women, we are called to share the good news of Jesus with others. The resurrection gives us a message of hope and life, which is meant to be spread, not kept to ourselves.
The mention of Peter is also deeply encouraging. We all experience moments of failure, doubt, or denial. But Peter’s story shows that God’s grace is bigger than our mistakes. If Peter can be restored and included in God’s plans, so can we. The resurrection offers every believer the chance to be forgiven, renewed, and used for God’s purposes.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is displayed in this verse through His pursuit of reconciliation and restoration. By including Peter specifically in the angel’s instructions, God shows that He doesn’t abandon us when we fail. Instead, He reaches out with grace, offering us a fresh start.
God’s love is also seen in the angel’s command to share the message of the resurrection. The news of Jesus’ victory over death isn’t just for a select few—it’s for everyone. God’s love is inclusive and invites all people to experience the new life found in Christ.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ faithfulness to His promises. He had told His disciples that He would rise and meet them in Galilee, and now that promise is being fulfilled. Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just proof of His power—it’s proof of His reliability. If He kept this promise, we can trust Him to keep all His promises, including the promise of eternal life.
The mention of Peter also shows the heart of Jesus. Even though Peter had denied Him, Jesus didn’t give up on him. Instead, He sought to restore and commission Peter for ministry. This is consistent with Jesus’ character as the Good Shepherd who seeks out the lost and brings them back into the fold (John 10:11, John 21:15-17).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the angel specifically mentioned Peter by name?
- How can you relate to Peter’s experience of failure and restoration in your own life?
- What does it mean for you to “go and tell” others about Jesus’ resurrection?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in Jesus’ promises, even when you don’t understand His plan?
- How does the resurrection give you hope, even when you feel unworthy or distant from God?