Introduction: Matthew 28 is the final chapter in the gospel of Matthew and it tells the events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This chapter is of the utmost importance because it not only confirms the deity of Jesus but also the fulfillment of his promises to rise on the third day. The chapter is divided into four main sections: the resurrection, the appearance to the women at the tomb, the report of the guards, and the great commission. Each section carries a unique message for the faithful that is relevant to all believers faith in Jesus and mission in the world.
I. The Resurrection (Matthew 28:1-10)
The chapter begins with the true account of the resurrection of Jesus. The women (Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, possible Jesus’ mother) who had followed Jesus in his earthly ministry came to the tomb to anoint his body, only to find the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and proclaimed that Jesus had risen from the dead. This event is very important as it confirms the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy in Matthew 16:21 that he would be raised on the third day. The resurrection of Jesus is the pinnacle of Christianity as it confirms his deity as God, and validates his sacrifice for the sins of all who believe. The resurrection is also referenced in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 which points out the great importance of the resurrection in the gospel message.
II. The Appearance to the Women (Matthew 28:9-10)
After the angel’s proclamation, Jesus himself appears to the women and greets them. The women respond by worshiping him, demonstrating their faith in his resurrection. This appearance is the first recorded appearance of the resurrected Jesus, perfectly proving he indeed is the son of God. It is also reminds believers that Jesus reveals himself to those who seek him, as the Bible brings out in Jeremiah 29:13. The appearance to the women confirms the angel’s message and provides further evidence of the resurrection.
III. The Report of the Guards (Matthew 28:11-15)
The guards who had been stationed at the tomb report to the chief priests what had happened. The chief priests bribe the guards to spread a false report that the disciples had stolen the body. These verses sheds light on the lengths to which the religious leaders would go to discredit the resurrection of Christ. It also fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 2:1-2 that the rulers would plot against the Lord’s anointed. The false report of the guards serves is a grave warning to believers to be aware of false teachings that seek to undermine the truth of the resurrection, and so undermine their faith in the Lord Jesus.
IV. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20)
The chapter ends with Jesus’ commission to his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. This great commission is the marching orders of the church and the responsibility of every believer to share the gospel message. The great commission also comes with the promise of Jesus’ presence with them always, this is reinforced in Hebrews 13:5. The commission to believers from Jesus teaches the world that the resurrection is not the end of the gospel story but only the beginning of the mission to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth, till His kingdom come.
Conclusion: Matthew 28 confirms the resurrection of Jesus and the implications it has on the believer’s faith and mission. The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christianity, and the appearances to the women and the great commission serve as reminders of the responsibility to share the gospel. The report of the guards serves as a warning to be vigilant against false teachings. Overall, Matthew 28 is an inspirational and motivational chapter that calls believers to live out their faith with confidence in the risen Savior.
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