Message for Peter
Apr 16, 2023
"But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you."
Mark 16:7
The message came from a young man "dressed in a white robe" telling the women-Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome-who had brought spices to anoint the body of Jesus. He told them, "Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him." (Mark 16:6)
Then came a message which the women were instructed to convey to the disciples, the Twelve, now the Eleven (minus Judas). Peter's name is specifically mentioned, but its place is unusual. Let us consider a number of ways the addressees could have been stated.
Firstly, why not just "the disciples"? Peter had denied Jesus, and could no longer be considered the leader. In any case, "the disciples" would include Peter. Secondly, if Peter is to be mentioned, why not "Peter and the disciples"? Whenever the women were mentioned with Mary Magdalene, her name was listed first (Matthew 27:56; Mark 15:40; Luke 24:10). "Peter and the disciples" would follow the conventional protocol -that is, if Peter was still considered the leader.
Thirdly, why "the disciples and Peter"? Had Peter been demoted and no longer judged worthy to lead the band of disciples? Why leave his name as a kind of afterthought? Why mention it at all, if he had been displaced?
Finally, the best way to render the phrase may be "the disciples and especially Peter". His name is not an appendix, neither has his position been downgraded. If written, his name would be in italics for emphasis. Despite the personal appearance to him, Jesus knew Peter needed another appointment.
It would take place in Galilee, by the sea, planned to the last detail, to restore Peter.
