ACC ~ John 20 v3 - 4

PETER AND JOHN COME IN BROAD DAYLIGHT

EUSEBIUS OF CAESAREA: Peter and John seem to come to the sepulcher in broad daylight (an opportune time). By not coming during the night and in darkness, no one can suspect them of what the chief priests falsely accused them, that is, that they came by night and stole him. Therefore the men did not come by night or while it was still dark but while it was broad daylight. But if the Gospel says that the disciples were gathered together for fear of the Jews, someone may object, “How then did those who were shut up visit the sepulcher in broad daylight?” We respond that it was natural that those who were living in the city in the midst of the Jews would be closed in, gathered together in one house. But those who came to the tomb, since they were outside the city, were far from fear of the Jews since they were going to a place deserted and empty of people. But perhaps it may also be the case that Peter and John, being above the fear of the other disciples, ventured more boldly to go out from the house while the others were too scared. In other matters it was recorded that they were considered worthy of more honor than the other apostles. TO MARINUS, SUPPLEMENT 2. [1]

ALONG WITH PETER AND JOHN

GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS:

Be a Peter or a John;

Hasten to the sepulcher,

Running together,

Running against one another,

Vying in the noble race.

And even if you are beaten in speed,

Win the victory of showing who wants it more—

Not just looking into the tomb, but going in.

ON HOLY EASTER, ORATION 45.24. [2]

[1] AEG 6:122-23**; PG 22:988.

[2] NPNF 2 7:432**.