This message would give the impression that Peter is not one of the disciples. Let’s take a close look to see why the message was framed this way.
We need to remember that the angels not only are witnesses to our church services but, they are also witnesses to general events concerning Jesus.
According to Mark 16:7 But, go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall he see him, as he said unto you.”
Viewing this verse of scripture, it is clear that the angel had full knowledge about the entire trial and crucifixion of Jesus.
The question is why did this angel single out Peter more than any of the other disciples? He was guilty of betraying Jesus. Peter was filled with remorse desperately in need of comfort.
In Luke 22:54-62
It reads “Then took they him, and lead him, and brought him into the high priest house. And Peter followed afar off. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were sat down together, Peter sat down among them. But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly look upon him, and said, this man was also with him. And he denied him, saying, woman, I know him not.
And after a little while another saw him, and said, thou art also of them, and Peter said, man, I am not.
And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirm, saying, of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilean. And Peter said, man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turned and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, before the cock crow thou shall deny me thrice.
And Peter went out and wept bitterly”.
(When Jesus looked at Peter after the cock crew, it was a look of love and compassion.
Therefore, the message from the tomb that singled out Peter is a message of forgiveness which is extended to you and I).
Prior to Peter’s denial, Jesus had told him that Satan had desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted strengthen thy Brethren. Peter said he was ready to go with Thee, both into prison and to death. Then he was told he would deny Jesus three times. This is not only forgiveness, grace and mercy, but love and restoration. John 21-14-17; after Jesus was risen from the dead, three times Jesus asked Peter, lovest thou me, Peter answered in the affirmative. Jesus told him to feed My sheep. Reading the rest of the Scripture it was proven how much Peter loved the Lord. Jesus doesn’t leave us to wallow in our failures. Repentance brings Restoration.