In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III responds to the claim that Christ’s disciples were not eyewitnesses to the Crucifixion and Resurrection, based on Mark 14:50: “Then they all forsook Him and fled.”

The Pope explains that this verse refers to the disciples fleeing at the moment of Christ’s arrest—not during the Crucifixion itself. Later, some disciples returned, especially St. John the Beloved, who stood beside the Cross along with the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene and other women who faithfully followed Christ until His burial.

He also mentions that Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus participated in taking down the Lord’s body, wrapping it, and burying it. The Crucifixion was not a secret event but a public one witnessed by the entire city—priests, soldiers, and people—all of whom saw Him crucified and mocked Him openly.

The Pope adds that the Resurrection too was not a mere story passed by hearsay. The disciples personally witnessed the risen Christ, who appeared to them multiple times, spoke with them, and even ate with them. Thus, the faith of the Church is founded on clear eyewitness testimony, not on rumor or imagination.

✝️ Spiritual Lessons:

• Christian faith is based on true witness, not on hearsay.

• Some disciples remained at the Cross, faithful to the end.

• The Crucifixion was public and witnessed by many.

• The presence of the Virgin and John at the Cross shows steadfast faith amid trial.

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