Matthew 28:5-10 is about the women finding an empty tomb where an angel tells them that Jesus has risen from the dead, instructing them to go and tell the disciples the good news of his resurrection and to meet Jesus in Galilee, emphasizing the importance of spreading the message of hope and new life.
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.”
Setting the Scene for Matthew 28:5-10
The scene in Matthew 28:5-10 takes place at the tomb of Jesus on the morning of the resurrection. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary arrive at the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body with spices. As they approach, they are met with an earthquake, and an angel of the Lord descends from heaven, rolling back the stone from the entrance of the tomb. The guards stationed at the tomb are struck with fear and become like dead men.
The women are filled with awe and fear as the angel tells them not to be afraid, for Jesus has risen from the dead, just as He said. The angel instructs them to go quickly and tell the disciples that Jesus has been raised from the dead and will meet them in Galilee. Overwhelmed with a mix of fear and joy, the women leave the tomb to carry out the angel’s instructions.
The surroundings are filled with the early morning light, casting a sense of mystery and wonder over the scene. The tomb is a solemn place, yet now filled with the presence of the divine. The women, faithful followers of Jesus, are chosen to be the first witnesses of the resurrection, a momentous event that will change the course of history.
What is Matthew 28:5-10 about?
This verse from the Bible’s Gospel of Matthew highlights a pivotal moment in Christian faith and history: the discovery of Jesus’s empty tomb and the proclamation of his resurrection by an angel. We reflect on this passage, inviting us to consider the profound significance of Jesus’s resurrection as the cornerstone of Christian belief. It symbolizes triumph over death, the fulfillment of prophecies, and the promise of eternal life for believers.
Imagine the awe and wonder the women must have felt upon encountering the angel and hearing the news of Jesus’s resurrection. Their journey from shock to joy to action teaches us about the power of faith and the responsibility that comes with bearing witness to such a transformative event. We too are called to share the good news of Jesus’s resurrection and the hope and salvation it brings to all who believe, just as the women were commissioned to go and tell the disciples. These women became heralds of the greatest news the world has ever known, showcasing their courage and conviction. We meditate on this verse, inspiring us to embrace our own role as messengers of the resurrection, spreading the light and love of Christ to all those around us.
Understanding what Matthew 28:5-10 really means
The events following Jesus’ resurrection, as described in Matthew 28:5-10, hold profound significance in the Christian faith. An angel’s appearance at the tomb and Jesus meeting the women not only fulfill Jesus’ promise of resurrection but also mark the beginning of the Great Commission, emphasizing the core beliefs of Christianity. The angel’s reassuring words, “Do not be afraid,” serve as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the peace that faith brings, reassuring believers in times of uncertainty and fear. The declaration, “He is not here; he has risen,” solidifies the foundational truth of Christ’s victory over death and sin, a pivotal moment in Christian theology.
The command to the women to “Go quickly and tell his disciples” underscores the urgency and importance of spreading the news of Jesus’ resurrection, highlighting the mission of sharing the Gospel with others. Their act of worship, “They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him,” symbolizes the recognition of Jesus’ divinity and the appropriate response to His resurrection, inspiring reverence and adoration in believers. These key phrases and actions encapsulate the essence of the resurrection narrative, emphasizing faith, proclamation, and worship as integral components of the Christian walk.
Related Bible passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, John 11:25-26, and Romans 6:4 further illuminate the significance of Christ’s resurrection in the broader biblical context. Paul’s teachings on Christ as the firstfruits of the resurrection, Jesus’ promise of eternal life to believers, and the transformative power of new life in Christ all point to the central theme of redemption and renewal through the resurrection. These passages reinforce the foundational truths of the Christian faith and provide deeper insights into the implications of Jesus’ victory over death.
The relevance of Jesus’ resurrection extends to believers today in various ways. In times of difficulty, the resurrection offers hope beyond earthly struggles, reminding individuals that death is not the end but a gateway to eternal life. Just as the women were called to action to share the news of the resurrection, Christians today are urged to proclaim the message of salvation and redemption to a world in need of hope and healing. The resurrection also signifies personal transformation, symbolizing new beginnings and the potential for spiritual renewal through faith in Christ.
Consider a scenario where someone facing profound loss and despair encounters the message of the resurrection. This individual, initially overwhelmed by sorrow and hopelessness, finds comfort and renewed hope in the promise of life beyond suffering. Like the women at the tomb who transitioned from fear to joy and purpose, individuals today can experience a similar transformation through embracing the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. The passage from Matthew 28:5-10 serves as a poignant reminder of the hope, joy, and mission that emanate from the resurrection, calling believers to live out this truth in their daily lives and share it with a world in need of redemption and restoration.
Have I truly encountered the risen Christ?
Based on the account in Matthew 28:5-10, encountering the risen Christ would be a profound experience filled with awe and overwhelming joy. The message from the angel to not be afraid would be a reminder of the transcendent nature of such an encounter, which would evoke a sense of wonder and deep reverence. The directive to go and share the news with the disciples would emphasize the transformative power of meeting the risen Christ, prompting a response of urgency and excitement to spread the good news to others. Encountering the risen Christ in light of the passage involves realizing the truth of His resurrection and the significance of His victory over death. The experience would bring a sense of awe and intimacy, as well as a profound sense of mission and purpose in sharing the news with others. It would be a moment of profound understanding and faith, leading to a personal transformation and a deepening of one’s relationship with Christ.
Application
Unleash your inner fire for the message of Jesus’ resurrection. Spread the news of His victory like wildfire, bringing hope and joy to all. Your voice can ignite hearts and minds with the truth of Christ’s triumph over death. Will you rise to the challenge and let His light shine through you?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.