Mark 16:14 Commentary - Whedon's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

14. Afterward Mark gives here a third appearance. Appeared unto the eleven They are called the eleven because this was now their official number, and not because there were really eleven present, for Thomas was absent on that occasion. This was probably the same as the appearance mentioned by Paul in 1Co 15:5, where they are called the twelve. This same meeting is described in Joh 20:19-23, but most fully in Luk 24:36-49; upon that occasion our Lord saluted them with peace, presented his members to their senses, and ate in their presence, to show that he was no spirit. And he opened their eyes to understand the prophetic Scriptures, that they might appreciate their predictions of his death and resurrection, and the universal propagation of his Gospel. He promised to commission them as universal preachers of his word, but bade them remain in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high.