Commentary on John 20:5
"And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in."

This verse captures the moment when John, the disciple who arrived first at the tomb, stoops down to look inside but refrains from entering. His observation of the linen clothes lying there demonstrates the reality of the empty tomb and the orderly departure of Jesus’ body, as opposed to a chaotic theft. However, his hesitation to enter suggests reverence, caution, or perhaps awe at the sacredness of the moment.
The detail of the linen clothes lying in the tomb is significant. It affirms that Jesus’ resurrection was not a hurried or disorderly event. Instead, it highlights the divine nature of the miracle. The linen clothes, neatly left behind, contrast with the human assumption of theft and point to the supernatural reality of Jesus rising from the dead.
John’s hesitation reflects the varying responses to divine revelation. Some approach sacred truths with immediate action, like Peter, while others, like John, take a more reflective stance. Both approaches are valid in the journey of faith, as they ultimately lead to the same understanding of God’s work.