Matthew 28:8 is about the women at the tomb encountering the resurrected Jesus and experiencing a mix of fear and joy, which symbolizes the initial reaction of believers when faced with the reality of Jesus’ resurrection and the dawn of a new era of salvation.
8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 28:8
The scene in Matthew 28:8 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, as was the custom at the time. As they approached the tomb, they were likely filled with grief and sorrow over the loss of their beloved teacher and friend.
The surroundings are somber and quiet, with the early morning light casting a soft glow on the garden where the tomb is located. The women would have been walking slowly, perhaps comforting each other as they made their way to the burial site. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of recent events, as they grapple with the reality of Jesus’ death.
As they arrive at the tomb, they are met with an unexpected sight – an angel of the Lord descending from heaven, rolling back the stone that covered the entrance to the tomb. The women are filled with fear and amazement at the sight, as the angel delivers the incredible news that Jesus has risen from the dead. This moment marks the beginning of the most pivotal event in Christian history, as the women become the first witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
What is Matthew 28:8 about?
Imagine the excitement and fear that the women must have felt when they discovered the empty tomb of Jesus. It was a moment filled with conflicting emotions – on one hand, an overwhelming sense of fear at the unknown, and on the other, an inexplicable joy at the possibility of resurrection. The women must have been filled with a mix of emotions as they processed what they had just witnessed. How would you react in such a situation?
Their immediate reaction was to run and tell the disciples about what they had seen. This act of sharing the news with others shows their deep sense of loyalty to Jesus and their commitment to spreading the message of his resurrection. It must have been a moment of great urgency for them, as they could not contain the news of such a miraculous event. How do you think you would react if you were in their shoes?
This verse highlights the power of faith and the impact of witnessing something extraordinary. It serves as a reminder of the importance of sharing good news and spreading hope, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. The women’s actions inspire us to be courageous and proactive in sharing the message of love and redemption with those around us. How can you embody the same spirit of enthusiasm and urgency in sharing the good news with others in your own life?
Understanding what Matthew 28:8 really means
In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a pivotal moment in the resurrection narrative where the women who visited Jesus’ tomb are met with astonishing news. As they grapple with a mix of emotions, described as “fear and great joy,” we witness a profound reaction to the revelation that Jesus has risen from the dead. This blend of fear and joy is not merely about terror and happiness but encompasses awe, reverence, and overwhelming relief at the miraculous event unfolding before them. It is a reminder that significant moments in our lives can evoke complex and deeply felt responses.
The urgency with which the women “ran to tell his disciples” underscores the importance of spreading the message of Jesus’ resurrection. Their eagerness to share the good news reflects a universal human experience – the innate desire to connect, communicate, and bear witness to transformative events. Just as the women felt compelled to share the news of Jesus’ resurrection, we are called to share moments of hope, renewal, and triumph in our own lives with others.
When we consider related Bible passages like Mark 16:8, Luke 24:9-10, and John 20:18, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the women’s role in announcing the resurrection to the apostles. Their actions serve as a model for us today, reminding us of the power of sharing uplifting and transformative experiences with those around us. The resurrection narrative is not just a historical event but a timeless symbol of hope, renewal, and the victory of life over death.
To illustrate the emotional depth of the women’s reaction, imagine a person receiving life-changing news, such as being declared cancer-free after a long wait for test results. The mix of relief, joy, and awe they experience mirrors the women’s emotions at the tomb. This anecdote highlights how fear and joy can coexist in moments of profound significance, propelling us to share the miraculous and transformative events in our lives with others.
In our daily lives, we can draw inspiration from the women at the tomb by embracing moments of awe and joy as opportunities to witness and share our faith. Recognizing that fear and joy can drive us to take meaningful actions, we can reflect on the resurrection as a source of hope and motivation. By spreading positivity, faith, and the message of renewal, we embody the spirit of the women who eagerly shared the news of Jesus’ resurrection, making the timeless message of hope relevant in our lives today.
How can we find joy in sharing the gospel?
We can find joy in sharing the gospel by recognizing the incredible privilege and honor it is to be entrusted with the message of salvation. The verse you referenced captures the moment when the women encountered the risen Jesus and were filled with a mixture of fear and joy. We are participating in the powerful work of the Holy Spirit to bring about transformation and renewal in people’s lives when we share the gospel. The joy we experience in sharing the gospel comes from knowing the impact it can have on others and witnessing the life-changing power of Christ at work.
Additionally, sharing the gospel allows us to align ourselves with God’s purposes and participate in His kingdom work. When we share the good news of Jesus Christ, we are joining in God’s mission to reconcile all things to Himself. This brings a deep sense of fulfillment and joy as we see lives being changed, hope being restored, and relationships being healed through the message of salvation. It is a privilege to be ambassadors of Christ and to play a part in extending His love and grace to those around us.
Furthermore, sharing the gospel helps us to cultivate a deeper relationship with God as we rely on Him for courage, wisdom, and guidance in our interactions with others. We experience God’s presence and power at work in and through us as we step out in faith and obedience to share the gospel. This intimate connection with God fills us with joy and satisfaction as we witness His faithfulness and see His kingdom advancing through our efforts to share the good news with others.
Application
Think about the electric thrill of landing your dream job or celebrating a family milestone. The women in Matthew 28:8 felt exactly that joy and wonder when they saw the risen Lord. Imagine carrying that same fervor into your faith, sharing Jesus’s resurrection like breaking life-changing news. Can you be the spark that ignites hope and love in a world craving light?
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.