Question:
In Luke 24:4-6, the Bible mentions two angels, but in Mark 16:5-6, it describes only one angel. Does this mean the Bible contradicts itself? Which account is correct?
Answer:
Let’s examine the texts carefully.
Mark 16:5 (NIV) says: As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
Mark 16:5 (NIV) says:
As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
Here, only one angel is described, depicted as a young man in white.
On the other hand, Luke 24:4-6 (NIV) records:
While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright, the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee…
At first glance, this seems like a contradiction: one account says two angels, the other says one. But Scripture, inspired by the Holy Spirit, never contradicts itself (2 Timothy 3:16).
The key to understanding is recognizing that both accounts are complementary rather than conflicting.
Theological Insight:
Angels frequently appear in groups (Genesis 19:1; Hebrews 13:2), and in this resurrection scene, Luke emphasizes the presence of two angels, symbolizing the heavenly confirmation of Christ’s resurrection. Two witnesses were often required in Jewish law to establish truth (Deuteronomy 19:15), so the two angels reinforce the authenticity of the resurrection.
Mark’s Gospel, on the other hand, focuses on the angel who actively communicates with the women, delivering the life-changing message that Jesus has risen. The other angel may have been present but silent.
Luke 24:5 (NIV) says, “In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them…” The plural “men” (angels) indicates both were there, but the singular message points to one speaking while the other remained silent.
Illustration:
Think of it like two reporters covering the same event: one reports the president’s statement, the other reports the reaction of the people. Both accounts are true and accurate, just different perspectives.
This harmonization reflects the richness of Scripture and the multifaceted nature of divine revelation. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:14). The angels’ message confirms that death could not hold Him, fulfilling God’s redemptive plan (Acts 2:24).
Have You Received Jesus Christ?
If you haven’t yet accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, know that salvation is available to all who believe (John 3:16; Romans 10:9). Jesus is coming back soon (Acts 1:11), and there is no better time than now to receive Him.
If you want guidance on how to receive Jesus, feel free to contact us. We will gladly lead you in a prayer of confession and faith.
May God richly bless you.
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