Matthew 28:6-7 is about the angel proclaiming to the women at the empty tomb that Jesus has risen from the dead, emphasizing the victory of Christ over death and the importance of sharing this life-changing message with others.
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.”
Setting the Scene for Matthew 28:6-7
The scene in Matthew chapter 28 takes place at the tomb of Jesus on the morning of the resurrection. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary had come to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body with spices, but they were met with an earthquake as an angel of the Lord descended from heaven. The angel rolled back the stone from the entrance of the tomb and sat on it, his appearance like lightning and his clothing as white as snow.
The guards who were stationed at the tomb were so afraid of the angel that they shook and became like dead men. The angel then spoke to the women, telling them not to be afraid, for he knew they were looking for Jesus who was crucified. He informed them that Jesus was not there, for He had risen from the dead just as He said. The angel instructed the women to go quickly and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen from the dead and that He would meet them in Galilee.
The women, filled with fear and great joy, left the tomb to carry out the angel’s instructions. As they ran to tell the disciples the good news, they encountered Jesus Himself, who greeted them. The scene at the tomb of Jesus is one of awe, wonder, and joy as the reality of the resurrection begins to unfold before the eyes of those who loved and followed Jesus.
What is Matthew 28:6-7 about?
This verse signifies the foundational belief of Christianity – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a powerful statement that encapsulates the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to rise again after His crucifixion. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, symbolizing victory over sin and death.
Just take a moment to imagine the impact of this event. Jesus, who was crucified and buried, defied death and came back to life. This miraculous event not only validates Jesus’ divinity but also offers hope and redemption to all believers. It is a testament to the power of God and the promise of eternal life for those who put their trust in Him.
Reflect on the significance of Jesus being alive. It brings reassurance that our Savior is not just a historical figure but a living presence in our lives. His resurrection brings transformation and new beginnings, reminding us of the eternal hope we have in Him. This verse is a proclamation of joy and victory, inviting us to celebrate the glorious truth that Jesus is indeed alive!
Understanding what Matthew 28:6-7 really means
In the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in the verses Matthew 28:6-7, we encounter a pivotal moment in Christian faith—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These verses capture the essence of the Easter story, where an angel proclaims to the women at the tomb, “He is not here; he has risen.” This declaration is not merely a historical event but a profound affirmation of the core belief that Jesus conquered death, signifying victory over sin and offering eternal life to believers.
The phrase “He is not here; he has risen” encapsulates the heart of Christianity, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. It serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that death is not the end but a gateway to new life in Christ. Furthermore, the invitation to “Come and see the place where he lay” encourages us to seek the truth for ourselves, reinforcing the importance of personal faith and conviction in the resurrection narrative.
Following the revelation of Jesus’ resurrection, the angel instructs the women to “go quickly and tell his disciples.” This command underscores the urgency and significance of spreading the news of the resurrection. It highlights the role of believers as messengers of the Gospel, entrusted with sharing the transformative message of Christ’s victory over death.
These verses resonate with other passages in the Bible that emphasize the centrality of the resurrection to the Christian faith. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Paul reaffirms the importance of Christ’s resurrection for the forgiveness of sins, while in John 11:25-26, Jesus proclaims Himself as the resurrection and the life, offering eternal hope to all who believe in Him. Romans 6:4 further illustrates the transformative power of the resurrection, inspiring believers to live new lives in Christ.
The message of Matthew 28:6-7 remains relevant today, offering hope, assurance, and a call to action for believers. The resurrection assures us of eternal life, empowers us to share the Gospel boldly, and invites us to embrace transformation in our lives. Just as the women at the tomb were commissioned to spread the news of Jesus’ resurrection, we are called to be witnesses of His transformative power in our world today.
Consider the impact of the resurrection on individuals facing despair and hopelessness. Like a person trapped in a metaphorical tomb of despair, the message of Christ’s resurrection brings newfound hope and the promise of renewal. This hope empowers them to rise above their circumstances, inspiring positive change and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
In conclusion, Matthew 28:6-7 serves as a timeless reminder of the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection. It beckons us to embrace hope, share the good news, and live lives marked by the victory of Christ over death. May we be emboldened by the message of the empty tomb, knowing that the resurrection is not just a historical event but a living reality that continues to change lives and bring light to a world in need of hope.
How can we actively seek the risen Jesus Christ?
We can actively seek the risen Jesus Christ by first acknowledging that He is no longer in the tomb but is alive. We must believe in His resurrection and have faith that He is indeed alive, just as the angel told the women at the empty tomb that Jesus had risen. This belief should drive us to seek Him earnestly in prayer, through studying His Word, and through worship.
Furthermore, just as the angel instructed the women to go quickly and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen, we should share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection with others. We solidify our own belief and invite others to encounter the risen Christ themselves by spreading the message of His resurrection.
Seeking the risen Jesus Christ also involves actively living out His teachings and following His example in our daily lives. This means embodying His love, grace, and mercy towards others, and striving to live a life that reflects His resurrected presence within us. We invite a deeper, more intimate relationship with the risen Savior by seeking Him in these ways.
Application
Embrace the risen Christ’s message in Matthew 28:6-7 and share it with others like a beacon of light in the darkness. Let the power of His victory over death fuel your spirit and drive you to spread the joyous news of His resurrection. Will you boldly proclaim the Good News and be a source of hope in a world hungry for it?
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.