Mark 16:14

The Appearance to the Eleven

14. Afterward That is on the evening of the day of the Resurrection, when the two disciples returning from Emmaus had recounted their tale of joy, and the others had told them of the appearance to St Peter.

as they sat at meat On this occasion, when they were terrified at His sudden appearing (Luke 24:37), and thought they were looking at a spectre or phantom, He calmed their fears by (a) bidding them take note of His Hands and His Feet, by (b) eating in their presence of broiled fish (Luke 24:41-43), and by (c) reiterating His salutation, "Peace be unto you" (John 20:21).

and upbraided them Their new-born joy still struggled with bewilderment and unbelief (Luke 24:21), and one of their number, St Thomas, was absent altogether, having apparently thrown away all hope.

hardness of heart Compare His words (a) after the feeding of the Five and Four Thousand, and (b) to the disciples journeying towards Emmaus, Luke 24:25.

them which had seen him Of the five appearances after the Resurrection vouchsafed on the world's first Easter-Day four had already taken place before this interview. (i) To Mary Magdalene, (ii) to the other ministering women, (iii) to the two journeying to Emmaus, (iv) to St Peter.