John 20:3–4

The second particular in this Narration, is, the use which Peter and John make of this information, and that they went to the sepulchre to see. Which being generally propounded, v 3. is more particularly spoken of, v. 4. that they both ran toward the sepulchre, and that John being more young and vigorous then Peter, did out-strip him in running. Whence learn, 1. When Saints finde any intimation that Christ is a missing, they should take with the alarme, and it is their duty to be stir themselves to seek a good account of that dispensation; for, albeit there was much unbelief here, yet it was commendable, that when they heard the newes, they went forth, and came to the sepulchre, to see what newes they could get. 2. Such as have fresh sense of their own frailty, and of Christs love, will be most active to enquire after an absent and missed Christ; for, it is Peter new recovered, and that other disciple, who went forth, &c. 3. Such as have fallen foully, ought not only to recover by repentance, and joyne themselves with the society of Saints; but they ought to evidence their recovery, by their activity, and being with the first in testimonies of affection; for, so appeareth in Peter, who now being recovered, is with the first of the disciples, who go to search after Christ. And it may be that therefore Peter only is named in this undertaking, Luke 24.12. because the fallen mans diligence and recovery was specially remarkable. 4. Diligence is required, and is a commendable testimony of affection, in disciples enquiry, and making search after Christ; for, they ran both together. 5. Albeit affection will put beleevers to all the diligence they can, yet every one is not to be tried by anothers measure of expressing his affection; for, one may be as affectionate as another, who yet may be retarded, and come short in expression of what that other attaineth unto; for, so appeareth in Peter and John, they ran both together, but the other disciple did out-run Peter, and came first to the sepulchre: John being young, and of a nimble body, did out-run Peter, who yet loved Christ as well as he, and was running as fast as he could. And thus also may many be borne down in their activity in respect of others, by reason of their infirmity of body, tentations of minde, or other infirmities, whose affections, notwithstanding, are as fervent toward Christ.