◄ Matthew 28 ►
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The Resurrection (Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–9) 1After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week,a Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2Suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled away the stone, and sat on it. 3His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4The guards trembled in fear of him and became like dead men. 5But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6He is not here; He has risen, just as He said! Come, see the place where He lay.b 7Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him.’ See, I have told you.” 8So they hurried away from the tomb in fear and great joy, and ran to tell His disciples. 9Suddenlyc Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” They came to Him, grasped His feet, and worshiped Him. 10“Do not be afraid,” said Jesus. “Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee. There they will see Me.” The Report of the Guards 11While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. 12And after the chief priests had met with the elders and formed a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money 13and instructed them: “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ 14If this report reaches the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15So the guards took the money and did as they were instructed. And this account has been circulated among the Jews to this very day. The Great Commission (Mark 16:14–18) 16Meanwhile, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain Jesus had designated. 17When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 19Therefore go and make disciplesd of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Footnotes: 1 a Literally Now after the Sabbaths, it being dawn toward the first of the Sabbaths, 6 b BYZ and TR where the Lord lay 9 c BYZ and TR They were going to tell His disciples, and suddenly 19 d Literally Having gone, therefore, make disciples Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Matthew 28 Summary The Resurrection Verses 1–4 – The Empty Tomb Discovered At daybreak on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” visit Jesus’ tomb. A violent earthquake occurs; an angel of the Lord rolls the stone away and sits on it. His appearance is blazing like lightning and his clothing white as snow. The guards shake with fear and become like dead men. Verses 5–8 – The Angelic Announcement The angel reassures the women, telling them not to fear. “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said” (v. 6). They are instructed to look inside the tomb, then hurry to inform the disciples that Jesus has risen and will meet them in Galilee. They depart quickly with both fear and great joy. Verses 9–10 – Jesus Meets the Women On the way, Jesus Himself greets them. The women fall at His feet and worship. He repeats the message: “Do not be afraid. Go, tell My brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see Me” (v. 10). Verses 11–15 – The Cover-Up Plot Some guards report the events to the chief priests. The priests bribe them to claim that Jesus’ disciples stole the body while they were asleep. The soldiers take the money and spread the story, which becomes common among the Jews. Verses 16–20 – The Great Commission The eleven disciples travel to a mountain in Galilee. When they see Jesus, they worship, though some hesitate. Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (v. 18). He commands them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything He taught. He promises, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (v. 20). Matthew 28 presents the climactic event in the life of Jesus - His resurrection. The chapter also highlights Jesus' appearances post-resurrection and the imparting of the Great Commission to His disciples. This powerful conclusion to Matthew's Gospel assures believers of Jesus' victory over death and His continued presence with His followers. Historical and Cultural Setting • “After the Sabbath, at dawn” (v. 1) places the event early Sunday, the first day of the Jewish week (cf. Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1). Jewish days began at sunset, so dawn followed the completed Sabbath rest. • Women preparing spices (Luke 24:1) fits first-century burial customs. Tomb visits on the third day were common to confirm death. • Roman guards likely numbered four to sixteen. Falling asleep was punishable by death, hence the need for a bribe (v. 12). • The sealing of a tomb with a round stone and official mark (27:66) is confirmed by first-century tombs uncovered around Jerusalem with similar stones and wax seals. Archaeological Notes • First-century rolling-stone tombs near Jerusalem (e.g., the “Garden Tomb,” though debated, and multiple Herodian-period graves) illustrate the type described. • Earthquakes in the Judean region are recorded by Josephus (War 4.286-87) within this period, matching Matthew’s mention of seismic events (27:51, 28:2). • Ossuaries bearing the name “Jesus” and “Joseph” show that these were common names, highlighting the Gospel’s need to identify “Jesus of Nazareth.” Evidence for the Resurrection 1. Empty tomb witnessed by hostile guards and friends alike. 2. Multiple post-resurrection appearances begin with the women (28:9-10) and continue (Luke 24; John 20–21; 1 Corinthians 15:5-7). 3. Transformation of fearful disciples into bold witnesses (Acts 2:14-24). 4. Early Christian preaching in Jerusalem, the very place the tomb lay, would have collapsed if the body were still there (Acts 2:32). Women as First Witnesses • In the ancient world, women’s testimony was often discounted (Josephus, Ant. 4.219). The inclusion here signals authenticity and divine affirmation of their role. • Mary Magdalene appears in all four Gospels’ resurrection accounts, underscoring her faithful discipleship (John 20:1-18). Angelic Ministry • Angels announce key moments: Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:9-14), temptation encouragement (Matthew 4:11), agony in Gethsemane (Luke 22:43), and now resurrection. • The angel’s words “just as He said” (v. 6) point back to Jesus’ repeated predictions (Matthew 16:21; 17:23; 20:19). Counter-Narrative of the Authorities • The bribery parallels earlier plots (27:3-10, 62-66). Matthew highlights persistent unbelief despite supernatural evidence. • The rumor of body theft is still known decades later when Matthew writes (v. 15), indicating a well-publicized claim. Galilee’s Significance • Jesus’ ministry began in Galilee (4:12-17) and, fittingly, His resurrected fellowship with disciples recommences there. • Isaiah 9:1-2 foretold light dawning in Galilee; the Great Commission extends that light to all nations. Great Commission Explained Authority: • Daniel 7:14 anticipates the Son of Man receiving “authority, glory, and kingdom.” Jesus claims this fully after resurrection. Action Verbs: 1. Go – intentional movement beyond familiar circles. 2. Make disciples – more than converts; lifelong learners and followers. 3. Baptize – public identification with Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). 4. Teach – passing on everything He commanded (not selective). Inclusive Scope: • “All nations” fulfills Genesis 12:3 (blessing to all families) and Psalm 67. • Acts 1:8 mirrors the pattern: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, ends of earth. Trinitarian Name: • Single “name” yet three Persons—Father, Son, Spirit—united but distinct. • Jesus’ equality with God implied (John 10:30) and Spirit’s personal role confirmed (John 14:16-17). Enduring Presence: • “I am with you” echoes God’s words to Moses (Exodus 3:12) and Joshua (Joshua 1:5). • The promise lasts “to the very end of the age,” covering the church’s entire mission era, culminating in Christ’s return (Matthew 24:30-31). Old Testament Foreshadowing • Jonah’s three days (Matthew 12:40) prefigures the resurrection timetable. • Psalm 16:10: “You will not abandon my soul to Sheol” fulfilled in Acts 2:25-31. • Isaiah 25:8: “He will swallow up death forever,” referenced in 1 Corinthians 15:54. Parallel Gospel Accounts • Mark 16:1-8 ends abruptly with amazement. • Luke 24 adds the Emmaus road and Jerusalem appearance. • John 20–21 highlights Thomas’s doubt and Galilean breakfast. Each complements Matthew’s emphasis on mission authority. Key Words and Phrases • “He has risen” (Greek: ēgerthē) – passive verb implying God’s action. • “Make disciples” (mathēteusate) – mentor-style relationship, not merely teach. • “End of the age” (synthéleia tou aiōnos) – the completion of the present world order. Practical Discipleship Insights • Courage: Women move toward the tomb despite danger; disciples must act with similar boldness. • Worship: Each resurrection encounter prompts worship (vv. 9, 17); true witnessing grows out of adoration. • Honesty: Matthew contrasts truthful testimony with bribed falsehood, challenging believers to integrity. • Global Vision: The Commission is geographic (nations) and generational (to the end of the age). Connections to Acts and Epistles • Acts 2:32-36 – Peter cites resurrection and authority. • Romans 10:9 – belief in the resurrection essential for salvation. • 1 Corinthians 15 – extensive defense and implications of resurrection. • 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul echoes “teach others” principle of multiplication. Summary Thought Matthew 28 moves from an empty tomb in Jerusalem to an open future for the whole world. The risen Jesus replaces fear with joy, silence with proclamation, and local fellowship with a global mission—all under His unending presence and absolute authority. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 Paul’s account of the resurrection appearances, affirming the truth of the resurrection. Acts 1:8 Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit empowering the disciples to be His witnesses. Romans 10:14-15 The necessity of preaching the Gospel for others to believe and be saved. Teaching Points The Resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:1-10) The chapter begins with Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visiting the tomb, only to find it empty. An angel announces, He is not here; He has risen, just as He said (Matthew 28:6). The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming Jesus' divinity and the truth of His teachings. The women are instructed to share the news with the disciples, highlighting the role of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection. The Guards' Report (Matthew 28:11-15) The guards report the empty tomb to the chief priests, who bribe them to spread a false account that Jesus' body was stolen. This passage underscores the opposition and disbelief that the resurrection faced, even from those who witnessed the events. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) Jesus meets His disciples in Galilee and commissions them, saying, Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). The Great Commission is a call to evangelism and discipleship, emphasizing the global mission of the Church. Jesus promises His presence, And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20), providing assurance and strength for the mission. Practical Applications Embrace the Resurrection Live with the hope and assurance that comes from knowing Jesus has conquered death. Share the message of the resurrection with others, as it is central to the Gospel. Fulfill the Great Commission Engage in personal evangelism and support missionary efforts to spread the Gospel. Disciple others by teaching them to obey Jesus' commands, fostering spiritual growth in your community. Trust in Jesus' Presence Rely on the promise of Jesus' continual presence in your life, especially during challenging times. Seek His guidance and strength as you pursue His mission. People 1. Mary Magdalene Mary Magdalene is one of the women who went to see the tomb of Jesus after His crucifixion. She is a devoted follower of Jesus, and her presence at the tomb signifies her dedication and love for Him. In the original Greek, her name is Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνή (Maria hē Magdalēnē). 2. The Other Mary Referred to simply as "the other Mary," she accompanies Mary Magdalene to the tomb. This Mary is often identified as Mary the mother of James and Joseph, based on other Gospel accounts. Her presence highlights the role of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection. 3. The Angel of the Lord An angel appears at the tomb, described as having a countenance like lightning and clothing as white as snow. The angel rolls back the stone from the tomb's entrance and announces Jesus' resurrection to the women. In Greek, the term for angel is ἄγγελος (angelos), meaning "messenger." 4. The Guards The guards are Roman soldiers assigned to watch over Jesus' tomb to prevent His body from being stolen. They become like dead men out of fear when the angel appears and rolls back the stone. 5. Jesus Jesus is the central figure of the chapter, having risen from the dead. He appears to the women and later to His disciples, giving them the Great Commission. His resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming His divinity and victory over death. 6. The Eleven Disciples The eleven remaining disciples of Jesus (after Judas Iscariot's betrayal and death) are instructed to go to Galilee, where Jesus appears to them. They receive the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. The term "disciples" in Greek is μαθηταί (mathētai), meaning "learners" or "followers." Places 1. Jerusalem While not explicitly mentioned in Matthew 28, Jerusalem is the implied starting point for the events of the resurrection, as it is where Jesus was crucified and buried. The city holds significant importance as the center of Jewish worship and prophecy fulfillment. 2. The Tomb Matthew 28:1 describes Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visiting the tomb where Jesus was laid. The tomb is a key location as it is where the resurrection is first revealed. The Greek term used for tomb is "τάφος" (taphos), indicating a burial place. 3. Galilee In Matthew 28:7 and 28:10, the angel and Jesus instruct the women to tell the disciples to go to Galilee, where they will see Him. Galilee is significant as it is where much of Jesus' ministry took place and where He first called His disciples. The Greek term "Γαλιλαία" (Galilaia) refers to this region in northern Israel. 4. The Mountain in Galilee Matthew 28:16 mentions the disciples going to a mountain in Galilee where Jesus had directed them. This mountain is traditionally considered a place of revelation and teaching, reminiscent of the Sermon on the Mount. The specific mountain is not named, but it serves as the setting for the Great Commission. Events 1. The Resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:1-4) After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. A violent earthquake occurred as an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled back the stone, and sat on it. The guards were so afraid that they became like dead men. 2. The Angel's Message to the Women (Matthew 28:5-7) The angel told the women not to be afraid and announced that Jesus, who was crucified, had risen. The angel instructed them to go quickly and tell His disciples that He had risen from the dead and was going ahead of them into Galilee. 3. The Women Meet the Risen Jesus (Matthew 28:8-10) The women hurried away from the tomb, filled with joy, and ran to tell the disciples. Suddenly, Jesus met them and greeted them. They clasped His feet and worshiped Him. Jesus told them not to be afraid and to inform His brothers to go to Galilee, where they would see Him. 4. The Guards' Report (Matthew 28:11-15) Some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. The chief priests and elders devised a plan, giving the soldiers a large sum of money to say that Jesus' disciples came during the night and stole His body while they were asleep. This account was widely circulated among the Jews. 5. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, though some doubted. Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." In this chapter, the Greek term "Ἀνάστασις" (anastasis) is used for "resurrection," emphasizing the rising again of Jesus, which is central to Christian belief. The angel's message and Jesus' appearance affirm the truth of the resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian faith. The Great Commission underscores the mission of the Church to spread the Gospel, rooted in the authority of Christ. Lessons from Matthew 28 1. The Power of the Resurrection The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, demonstrating His victory over death. Matthew 28:6 proclaims, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said." This event is a powerful reminder that nothing is impossible with God. It encourages us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us. 2. The Role of Women in the Gospel In a time when women were often marginalized, Matthew 28 highlights their crucial role in the resurrection story. The women were the first to witness the empty tomb and receive the angel's message. "Then Jesus said to them, 'Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see Me'" (Matthew 28:10). This underscores the value and importance of women in God's plan. 3. The Importance of Obedience The angel instructed the women to "go quickly and tell His disciples" (Matthew 28:7). Their immediate obedience led to the spread of the resurrection news. This teaches us the importance of responding promptly to God's instructions, trusting that our obedience can have a significant impact on His kingdom. 4. The Assurance of Jesus' Presence Before ascending to heaven, Jesus reassured His disciples, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). This promise of His continual presence provides comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our journey of faith. 5. The Call to Make Disciples The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 is a call to action: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." This command challenges us to actively share the gospel and nurture others in their faith, expanding God's kingdom on earth. 6. The Authority of Jesus Jesus declared, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This statement affirms His sovereignty and power over all creation. As believers, we can confidently trust in His authority, knowing that He is in control of every situation we face. 7. The Joy of the Resurrection The resurrection brought immense joy to Jesus' followers. Matthew 28:8 describes the women leaving the tomb "with fear and great joy." This joy is a natural response to the realization that Jesus is alive, and it should permeate our lives as we celebrate His victory over sin and death. 8. The Reality of Doubt Even among the disciples, doubt existed. Matthew 28:17 notes, "When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted." This honest portrayal of doubt reminds us that faith is a journey. It's okay to have questions, but we are encouraged to seek answers and grow in our understanding of God. 9. The Urgency of the Message The angel's command to "go quickly" (Matthew 28:7) emphasizes the urgency of sharing the resurrection message. We are called to be proactive in spreading the good news, understanding that the world needs to hear about the hope and salvation found in Jesus. 10. The Fulfillment of Prophecy The resurrection fulfilled Jesus' own predictions and Old Testament prophecies. Matthew 28:6 confirms, "He has risen, just as He said." This fulfillment strengthens our faith, showing that God's promises are true and reliable. It encourages us to trust in His Word and His perfect timing. Topics 1. The Resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:1-10) This section describes the events of the resurrection morning. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visit the tomb, only to find it empty. An angel appears, announcing that Jesus has risen. The women are instructed to inform the disciples. The Greek word for "resurrection" (ἀνάστασις, anastasis) signifies a rising up, emphasizing the physical resurrection of Jesus. 2. The Report of the Guards (Matthew 28:11-15) After the resurrection, the guards report the events to the chief priests. A plan is devised to spread the false account that Jesus' disciples stole His body. This passage highlights the ongoing opposition to the truth of the resurrection. 3. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) Jesus meets His disciples in Galilee and gives them the Great Commission. He commands them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. The Greek term for "make disciples" (μαθητεύω, mathēteuō) underscores the process of teaching and nurturing believers in the faith. Jesus assures them of His presence, saying, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Themes 1. The Resurrection of Jesus Matthew 28:1-10 describes the resurrection of Jesus, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy and the power of God over death. The angel's announcement, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6), highlights the truth of Jesus' victory over the grave. The Greek term "ἐγήγερται" (egēgertai) underscores the divine action of being raised. 2. The Great Commission In Matthew 28:16-20, Jesus commissions His disciples to spread the Gospel, saying, "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This theme emphasizes the mission of the Church to evangelize and baptize, rooted in the authority of Jesus, as indicated by the Greek word "ἐξουσία" (exousia), meaning authority or power. 3. The Authority of Jesus Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This theme underscores the sovereignty of Christ and His divine authority, which is foundational for the mission of the Church. The Greek word "ἐξουσία" (exousia) is central to understanding the comprehensive nature of His rule. 4. The Presence of Jesus Jesus promises His continual presence with His followers, saying, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). This theme highlights the assurance and comfort of Christ's presence, with the Greek phrase "μεθ' ὑμῶν" (meth' hymōn) meaning "with you," emphasizing His ongoing companionship. 5. The Role of Women in the Resurrection Narrative Women are the first to witness and proclaim the resurrection, as seen in Matthew 28:1-10. This theme highlights their significant role in the early Christian community. The Greek term "μαθηταί" (mathētai), meaning disciples, is inclusive of these women, showing their importance in the narrative. 6. The Reaction of the Guards and Jewish Leaders Matthew 28:11-15 describes the guards' report and the Jewish leaders' attempt to suppress the truth of the resurrection. This theme illustrates the opposition to the Gospel and the lengths to which some will go to deny the truth. The Greek word "συμβούλιον" (symboulion), meaning council or plan, reflects the deliberate effort to counteract the resurrection message. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for the Resurrection Praise God for the victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ. Empowerment for the Great Commission Ask for boldness and wisdom to share the Gospel and make disciples. Assurance of Jesus' Presence Pray for a deeper awareness of Christ’s presence and guidance in your daily life. As we reflect on Matthew 28, may we be inspired by the resurrection and committed to fulfilling the Great Commission, trusting in the ever-present help of our risen Lord. Answering Tough Questions 1. If an angel physically rolled away the stone (Matthew 28:2), how can this be reconciled with modern scientific understanding of natural laws? 2. Why is there no external historical record of the earthquake (Matthew 28:2) or the resurrection outside of the biblical narrative? 3. If some of Jesus’ own disciples still doubted (Matthew 28:17), how can their testimony about the resurrection be considered credible? 4. Why do details in Matthew 28 about the resurrection differ from accounts in the other Gospels? 5. The guards were reportedly bribed to lie (Matthew 28:11–15); what evidence outside the Bible confirms or refutes this story? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the resurrection of Jesus affirm your faith in His divinity? 2. What do you learn about obedience and courage from the women who visited the tomb? 3. How does the reaction of the guards contrast with that of the women? 4. How does the conspiracy of the chief priests affect your understanding of truth and deceit? 5. How does Jesus' appearance to the women enhance your understanding of His post-resurrection encounters? 6. What does the Great Commission mean to you personally? How can you apply it in your life? 7. How does the phrase "I am with you always, even to the end of the age" offer comfort and encouragement in your faith journey? 8. How does the disciples' worship and doubt coexist in their encounter with the risen Jesus? 9. How can you handle and respond to misinformation or false narratives about Jesus in today's context, similar to the story spread by the chief priests? 10. How does the resurrection event affect your understanding of life, death, and eternity? 11. How can the actions of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary serve as an example in your own faith practice? 12. How can you work towards fulfilling the Great Commission in your everyday interactions? 13. What impact does the assurance of Jesus' omnipresence have on your approach to challenges? 14. How does the angel's message to the women about Jesus' resurrection inspire you to share the Gospel? 15. How does the resurrection story impact your view of the nature of God? 16. How does Matthew 28 inform your understanding of discipleship? 17. What can you infer about the authority of Jesus from His words in the Great Commission? 18. In what ways does the plot of the chief priests challenge the courage of your convictions? 19. How does the contrast between the faith of the women and the doubt of the guards speak to your own spiritual journey? 20. How does the ending of Matthew's Gospel inspire you to continue exploring the story of Jesus in other New Testament writings? 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