“Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him. Now I have told you.”– Matthew 28:7
Matthew 28:7 Meaning
The verse Matthew 28:7 is a significant moment in the New Testament, coming right after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This verse captures a powerful message and directive from the angel of the Lord to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, who had come to visit Jesus’ tomb. The angel, sitting upon the rolled-away stone, reassures these women with the message that Jesus is not dead; He has risen! This transformative event shifts the entire foundation of Christian belief. The command to ‘go quickly’ and share the news illustrates the urgency of the message. Jesus rising from the dead is not just a miraculous event; it signifies victory over sin and death, promising eternal life to all who believe in Him.
When we consider the directive given to the women, we realize that it invites a sense of action. We’re called to share not only the good news of Jesus’ resurrection but also how it impacts our lives daily. We, too, are called to spread the joy and hope that come from the resurrection, encouraging others in our communities to understand and embrace this life-changing reality. Jesus pursuing His disciples in Galilee symbolizes His wish to meet us where we are in our journey of faith, offering guidance and a personal relationship with Him.
Matthew 28:7 Commentary and Explanation
In this passage, the words spoken by the angel to Mary and Mary carry immense significance. They mark the turning point in human history – the moment when death was defeated, and hope was restored. The phrase “He has risen from the dead” not only affirms Jesus’ victory but also serves as a promise to all believers that death does not have the final say. Death, which once held the power over humanity, has now been conquered. The resurrection represents new beginnings and the assurance that we can have new life in Christ.
Following the command to share the message with the disciples, the missionary aspect of the gospel becomes evident. The call to evangelism is embedded within this verse, reminding us that the good news of Jesus is not merely meant for us to hold onto, but share with others. The excitement that accompanies the resurrection is tangible, and the call to action to share this news symbolizes the essence of being a follower of Christ. It reminds us of our role in participating in bringing others to the knowledge of salvation through faith in Jesus.
Let’s consider for a moment what the disciples were going through at that time. They were likely confused, scared, and grieving the loss of their teacher and friend. This news becomes a balm to their troubled hearts. It provides a solution to their hopelessness, filling them with joy and motivation. As followers of Christ today, we, too, are invited to communicate this hope to those around us who may be battling despair or confusion in their lives.
The urgency of the command to go serves to strengthen our resolve in our faith journeys. When we hear the message of Christ’s victory, we should respond with action and enthusiasm. We are challenged not to stay silent or complacent but instead to share the good news of His resurrection with conviction and love.
Let’s also take a moment to reflect on the geographical context. Galilee was familiar territory for Jesus and his disciples. By saying that Jesus is going ahead into Galilee, we recognize that post-resurrection appearances were intentional moments for Jesus to connect with His followers. He is not just a distant figure; He desires to enter into our lives in tangible ways.
Context of Matthew 28:7
To fully grasp the context of Matthew 28:7, we must consider the events leading up to it. The entire chapter tells the story of the resurrection from multiple perspectives. In the preceding chapters, we witness Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion, and burial. During these trying times, His disciples were filled with fear and uncertainty as they witnessed their leader’s death. The crucifixion threatened to extinguish their hope. However, Jesus’ resurrection signals a turn in the story – from death to life, from despair to rejoicing.
This chapter occurs after the Jewish leaders sealed the tomb and posted guards to prevent the body of Jesus from being stolen. Their efforts were in vain, for no human power could hinder God’s plan. The empty tomb is a dramatic revelation that not even the strongest barriers could stop the power of the Almighty. This sets the stage for Matthew 28:7, where the angel proclaims, “He has risen!”
We also see Mary Magdalene and the other Mary being the first witnesses of the resurrection. Their faithfulness and courage drive them to the tomb despite the risk of being seen. This highlights a crucial aspect of being a Christ-follower: it involves stepping out in faith, even when circumstances appear daunting. Their encounter with the angel and the extraordinary news they received is a blessing, not just for themselves but for all believers who share in this remarkable truth.
As we consider the cultural context, the message of resurrection brings hope not just to a select few but extends to all of humanity. The invitation to spread this message is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. Jesus’ willingness to meet His disciples in Galilee showcases His compassion and personal connection to each individual. This context shapes our understanding of how the resurrection continues to resonate through generations.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 28:7
Matthew 28:7 has several key elements that warrant exploration. The first is the command to “go quickly.” This urgency signifies the importance of the news. The word ‘quickly’ highlights that sharing the gospel should not be delayed. When we understand the fullness of what the resurrection means, we realize that it demands immediate response and action. Our enthusiasm for the gospel should drive us to share it with others without hesitation.
Next, the directive instructs Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to tell the disciples. The disciples would undoubtedly need reassurance, given the trauma they had just experienced. The resurrection is the antidote to despair and hopelessness. The command to tell the disciples reveals the profound nature of Christian community. We are called not only to experience the joy of salvation for ourselves but to share it with our fellow believers. Building one another up in faith is a shared responsibility as a body of Christ.
The message itself is vital: “He has risen from the dead.” This proclamation encapsulates the core of Christian faith. It signifies victory over death, sin, and despair. This declaration is not just a historical statement; rather, it is living truth that resonates personally with us. He has risen brings hope, healing, and newness of life. This message should redefine the way we view our lives and the world around us.
Then we see the promise: “He is going ahead of you into Galilee.” This statement assures the disciples that they will not be abandoned or left to fend for themselves. It showcases the continual presence of Jesus in our lives as we walk out our faith. His guidance goes before us, preparing our way, reminding us that we are never alone. He desires to meet us in our daily lives, offering wisdom and companionship.
Lessons From Matthew 28:7
Matthew 28:7 offers numerous lessons that we can apply in our lives today. One of the most significant takeaways is the urgency with which we should spread the gospel. The angel’s command to go quickly should stir within us a sense of mission. We are not called to keep the good news of Jesus to ourselves. The resurrection is too great of an event to remain silent. Each of us has people in our lives who need to hear about the hope, healing, and love found in Christ. Let this verse encourage us to proactively reach out and share what we have experienced through our faith.
Another lesson encapsulated in this verse is the call to community and fellowship. The disciples were not only recipients of the resurrection news but also part of a larger family of faith. We can learn from their example of mutual support and encouragement. As a unified body, we can empower each other’s faith through sharing testimonies, praying for one another, and walking alongside each other in our spiritual journeys. This lesson reminds us that our faith is not meant to be lived in isolation but within a vibrant community.
Furthermore, the assurance of Jesus going ahead of us encourages us to place our trust in His guidance. Often, we face trials and decisions that lead us to uncertainty. Yet, when we remember that Jesus is constantly at work in our lives, we can face our challenges with confidence. Jesus’ commitment to meet His disciples in Galilee serves as a reminder of His presence in our lives. We can lean on Him, seeking His direction in our endeavors, knowing that He goes before us, preparing the way.
Lastly, let us embrace the transformative impact of the resurrection in our lives. Jesus rising from the dead symbolizes new beginnings for all who believe in Him. It reflects hope, restoration, and the promise that we can have a relationship with our Creator. May we not take this truth lightly. Instead, let it inspire us to pursue a deeper connection with Christ, allowing His resurrection power to transform our hearts, minds, and spirits.
Final Thoughts
Matthew 28:7 is a pivotal verse that encapsulates the heart of the Christian faith. The angel’s message to the women carried significant weight as it initiated the spreading of the incredible reality of the resurrection. We are reminded of Jesus’s victory over death, the urgency of sharing the good news, and the encouragement and companionship offered to us through His presence. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond to the resurrection by actively sharing this message with others, emphasizing the life-transforming transformation that occurs when one encounters the risen Savior.
Let us also encourage each other and grow in fellowship as we journey together in faith. Like the women at the tomb, may we leave our encounters with the Lord motivated to spread joy and hope to those around us. The call to share this news with urgency is as relevant today as it was over two thousand years ago. Let us be inspired to go forth boldly, knowing that Jesus is with us each step of the way.
If you found this discussion insightful, we invite you to explore more topics such as Bible Verses About Easter for Kids or Summary of the Book of Galatians for further encouragement and learning.