John 20 vs Luke 24

How Did The Disciples React to Jesus?

After the resurrection of our Lord, he came to the disciples; however, some claim this shows a contradiction in whether they were frightened or elated.

"Now when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were together due to fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst, and said to them, “Peace be to you.” And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord," (John 20:19-20 NASB1995)

"Now while they were telling these things, Jesus Himself suddenly stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be to you.” But they were startled and frightened, and thought that they were looking at a spirit. And He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why are doubts arising in your hearts? See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see, because a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you plainly see that I have.” And when He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. While they still could not believe it because of their joy and astonishment, He said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They served Him a piece of broiled fish; and He took it and ate it in front of them. (Luke 24:36-42 NASB1995).

Very simply, they were both correct, and Luke shows us this rather well. John seems to not mention their fear, Luke tells us the disciples were frightened, "And He said to them, “Why are you frightened ..." (Luke 24:38 NASB), but the disciples, according to Luke, too were filled with joy: "... they still could not believe it because of their joy and astonishment ... " (Luke 24:41 NASB1995).

Thus, we have no contradiction. Merely, John negated that they were afraid while Luke chose to speak on it. This is not a contradiction, it is a lack of specificity. 

Work Cited:

New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.