Opening Summary
Matthew 28 brings the Gospel to its powerful conclusion with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What began with suffering and death now ends with victory, hope, and a worldwide mission. This chapter moves from the empty tomb to the risen Lord commissioning His followers, showing that Jesus has conquered death and now sends His people to carry His message to the world.
Read the Passage
You can read Matthew 28 here on Bible.com:
https://www.bible.com/bible/116/MAT.28.NLT
I also encourage you to read this chapter in your own Bible and take time to reflect on what God may be showing you through it.
What Happens in This Chapter
Matthew 28 opens early Sunday morning as Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visit Jesus’ tomb. A great earthquake occurs, an angel rolls away the stone, and the tomb is found empty. The angel announces that Jesus has risen from the dead and instructs the women to tell the disciples.
As the women leave, they encounter the risen Jesus Himself, who confirms the angel’s message. Meanwhile, the religious leaders attempt to cover up the resurrection by bribing the guards to spread a false story.
The chapter ends with Jesus meeting His disciples on a mountain in Galilee, where He declares His authority and gives the Great Commission. He commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, teach them His ways, and trust His continuing presence with them.
Historical and Cultural Background
Burial tombs in first century Judea were often sealed with large stones and guarded to prevent grave robbery. Roman guards were placed at Jesus’ tomb at the request of Jewish leaders, reflecting their fear that Jesus’ followers might claim He rose from the dead.
Women were not considered reliable witnesses in Jewish courts, which makes it significant that God chose women as the first witnesses of the resurrection. This detail highlights the authenticity of the account and God’s tendency to work through those society overlooked.
Mountains in Matthew’s Gospel often serve as places of revelation and authority. Ending the Gospel on a mountain emphasizes Jesus’ divine authority and connects His mission to earlier teachings like the Sermon on the Mount.
Notes on the Original Language
The New Testament was written primarily in Greek, with Jesus likely speaking Aramaic in daily life.
The word translated as “risen” comes from the Greek egeiro, meaning to awaken or raise up. It implies active victory over death rather than a passive return to life.
When Jesus says, “All authority has been given to me,” the Greek word exousia refers to rightful power and sovereign rule, not just ability. This emphasizes that Jesus reigns fully over heaven and earth.
The phrase “make disciples” comes from matheteuo, which means more than gaining converts. It implies a lifelong process of learning, following, and becoming like the teacher.
“Be with you always” uses language that stresses continual presence, offering assurance that Jesus remains actively involved with His followers.
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 28 fulfills Jesus’ earlier predictions of His resurrection in Matthew 16:21 and 20:18 to 19.
The resurrection connects directly to Psalm 16:10, which speaks of God not allowing His Holy One to see decay.
The Great Commission echoes God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3 that all nations would be blessed through him.
Jesus’ promise of His presence reflects God’s words to Moses in Exodus 3:12 and Joshua in Joshua 1:9, showing continuity in God’s mission and faithfulness.
What This Story Teaches
- Jesus truly conquered death, confirming His identity as the Son of God
- God often works through unexpected people to reveal His greatest truths
- Fear and doubt can coexist with faith, yet Jesus still calls and sends His followers
- The mission of the Church is global, relational, and ongoing
- Believers are never alone, because Jesus promises His continual presence
Closing Thoughts
I use the New Living Translation because it presents Scripture in clear and readable language. I am not a Bible scholar, and I do not claim to have a complete understanding. My purpose is to help others engage with God’s Word and reflect on its meaning. I encourage you to read the Bible for yourself, seek God’s guidance, and listen to how He may be speaking to you through His Word.