George Hutcheson
14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
Unto this breach of the Narration, John subjoynes a remark of the number and order, of this appearing of Christ unto them, and that it was the third in order, since his Resurrection, the other two being recorded, chap. 19.20, 26. Only it is to be understood, that John is here speaking of his more publick appearings, to all or many of his disciples together. Otherwise, before this he had appeared oftner, to Mary, to Peter, the disciples going to Emmans, and the women. Doct. 1. Christ hath abundantly proven the truth of his Resurrection, his shewing himself frequently to his disciples, being as so many witnesses confirming the same; for, here is the third time, or witnesse proving this. After which he confirmed it further, on the Mount of Galilee, Matth. 28.18. and at Jerusalem, in the time of his Ascension, Acts 1. 2. Christs tender condescendence again and again, to remove and cure his peoples unbelief, is much and seriously to be studied and taken notice of; Therefore also is it marked, that now the third time he shewed himself to his disciples, &c. to cure their unbelief in this matter, 3. Christs present favours should be a mean to bring his former mercies to remembrance, that use may be made of all together; Therefore also doth John upon this occasion, thankfully remember the former, and record that this is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
