Matthew 28:1-11 is about the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, encountering an angel who proclaims the risen Christ, signifying the triumph of Jesus over death and the validation of his divinity.
1 Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.
2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it.
3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow.
4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men.
5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.
6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.
7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”
8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples.
9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him.
10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”
11 While they were going, behold, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 28:1-11
As the sun began to rise over the horizon, a group of women made their way through the quiet streets of Jerusalem towards the tomb of Jesus. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome. They had come to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus with spices, as was the custom of the time.
The women walked in silence, their hearts heavy with grief over the loss of their beloved teacher and friend. As they approached the tomb, they were startled to see that the large stone covering the entrance had been rolled away. Confusion and fear gripped their hearts as they entered the tomb and found it empty, with only the burial cloths lying there.
Suddenly, two radiant figures appeared before them, causing the women to fall to the ground in awe and fear. The angels spoke to them, saying, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” Overwhelmed with a mixture of fear and joy, the women hurried back to the disciples to share the incredible news of Jesus’ resurrection. The scene was filled with a sense of wonder and amazement as the women encountered the living Christ and became the first witnesses to the greatest miracle in history.
What is Matthew 28:1-11 about?
This profound verse highlights the crucial role that women played in the discovery of Jesus’ resurrection. Women were the first to witness this monumental event in a society where their testimonies were often devalued. Through their faith, courage, and unwavering devotion, these women were entrusted with the incredible news of Jesus rising from the dead. This sends a powerful message about the importance of inclusion, equality, and the recognition of all individuals as bearers of divine truth.
Imagine the astonishment and wonder that must have filled the hearts of these women as they encountered the empty tomb and heard the angelic proclamation of Jesus’ resurrection. Their faith and dedication were rewarded with the most extraordinary revelation in human history. Women have always played a vital role in the spread of God’s message and the advancement of His kingdom as we reflect on this verse. We must also recognize the need to challenge societal norms that seek to marginalize or silence certain voices, and instead embrace the diverse ways in which God chooses to reveal His truth to the world.
Understanding what Matthew 28:1-11 really means
The passage in Matthew 28:1-11 captures the pivotal moment following the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of the Christian faith. As we delve into the breakdown and commentary of these verses, we uncover layers of significance that resonate deeply with believers.
“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week,” the timing of the events symbolizes a new beginning, echoing themes of hope and renewal. This parallels the creation narrative in Genesis, where God brings forth light, signifying a fresh start. The presence of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary as the first witnesses to the resurrection underscores the crucial role of women in God’s plan, mirroring their support of Jesus’ ministry in Luke.
The violent earthquake and the appearance of the angel with lightning-like radiance and snow-white garments signify God’s power, the breaking of the old order, and the purity of divine authority. The angel’s words, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified,” offer reassurance in the face of fear, redirecting attention to Jesus. This echoes God’s comforting words in Isaiah, instilling courage in the hearts of believers.
The proclamation, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said,” fulfills Jesus’ prophecy, affirming His divinity and teachings. The command to spread the news swiftly to the disciples emphasizes the urgency of evangelism, echoing Jesus’ instruction in Acts to be His witnesses. These verses hold timeless truths that continue to impact believers today.
In our contemporary context, the resurrection narrative offers hope beyond earthly struggles, promising eternal life. Women’s significant role in the resurrection account encourages gender equality in ministry and society, empowering women to serve in leadership roles. The angel’s message of reassurance, “Do not be afraid,” serves as a timeless reminder of God’s control in chaotic times, providing solace and trust in His protection during adversity.
Phrases like “He has risen,” encapsulate the essence of Christian faith—victory over death and the assurance of eternal life. “Do not be afraid” serves as a potent reminder that faith conquers fear, offering peace amidst uncertainty. “Go quickly and tell” underscores the urgency of sharing the gospel, urging believers to actively proclaim the message of Christ.
In conclusion, Matthew 28:1-11 stands as a profound testament to God’s power, the significance of faith, and the call for believers to spread the good news. Its relevance persists, offering hope, reassurance, and a compelling call to action for all who encounter its transformative message.
How can we have faith in Jesus’ resurrection?
One way we can have faith in Jesus’ resurrection is by reflecting on the angel’s words in the verse. The angel stated that Jesus had risen, reinforcing the truth of his resurrection. This declaration from a heavenly being serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of Jesus overcoming death.
Furthermore, the empty tomb mentioned in the verse is a tangible sign of Jesus’ resurrection. The absence of Jesus’ body, despite the heavy stone that had been rolled away, indicates that something miraculous had occurred. The physical evidence of the empty tomb supports the faith in Jesus’ resurrection and serves as a reminder of God’s power over death.
Lastly, the women’s encounter with Jesus after his resurrection, as mentioned in the verse, adds a personal dimension to the story. The fact that they were able to see, touch, and speak with the resurrected Jesus underscores the reality of his triumph over death. Their firsthand experience further solidifies the faith in Jesus’ resurrection and demonstrates the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ.
Application
Just as the women at the tomb felt a surge of emotions, our faith journey can lead us to moments of fear and joy. Let’s embrace the resurrection of Jesus like a beacon of hope in our lives. Let’s spread the good news like spreading warmth in a cold room. Are we ready to take a leap of faith and share the transforming power of Christ with our work family and social circles?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.