Matthew 28:9

To whom did Christ appear first, the women or His disciples?

PROBLEM: Both Matthew and Mark list women as the first ones to see the resurrected Christ. Mark says, “He appeared first to Mary Magdalene” (16:9). But Paul lists Peter (Cephas) as the first one to see Christ after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5).

SOLUTION: Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene, then to the other women, and then to Peter. The order of the twelve appearances of Christ goes as follows :

(John 20:10-18)

(Matthew 28:1) X X X Empty tomb

(1 Corinthians 15:5) Clothes

(Luke 24:13)

(Luke 24:36-49; John 20:19-23)

6. Eleven X X X Saw wounds Apostles (John 20:24-31)

7. Seven X X Ate food Apostles (John 21)

8. All Apostles X X (Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:14-18)

9. 500 Brethren X X (1 Corinthians 15:6)

10. James X X (1 Corinthians 15:7)

11. All Apostles X X Ate with Him (Acts 1:4-8)

12. Paul X X (Acts 9:1-9; 1 Corinthians 15:8)