Matthew Chapter 28: The Resurrection and Great Commission

Matthew chapter 28 is the climactic conclusion of the Gospel of Matthew, narrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and His commissioning of the disciples to make disciples of all nations. This chapter affirms Jesus’ victory over death, fulfills Old Testament prophecies, and establishes the mission of the church. Set in Jerusalem and Galilee shortly after Jesus’ crucifixion during Passover, it transforms the disciples’ despair into hope and purpose. Using the English Standard Version (ESV) for scriptural references, this article explores Matthew 28, breaking it into key sections and providing cross-references to deepen its meaning.

Context and Setting

Matthew chapter 28 follows the crucifixion and burial of Jesus (Matthew 27), occurring on the first day of the week (Sunday) after Passover. The events unfold at the tomb in Jerusalem and a mountain in Galilee, where Jesus meets His disciples. The resurrection fulfills Jesus’ predictions (Matthew 16:21) and Old Testament promises, while the Great Commission launches the global spread of the gospel. Matthew, written primarily for a Jewish audience, emphasizes Jesus as the Messianic King, culminating in His universal authority (Matthew 1:1; 28:18). The gospel’s purpose is to demonstrate that Jesus is the Christ, calling readers to faith and obedience (Matthew 7:21-27).

Key Sections and Themes

1. The Resurrection Announced (Matthew 28:1-10)

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary go to the tomb (Matthew 28:1). An earthquake occurs, and an angel of the Lord descends, rolling away the stone and sitting on it, with an appearance like lightning (Matthew 28:2-3). The guards tremble and become like dead men (Matthew 28:4). The angel tells the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said” (Matthew 28:5-6, ESV), inviting them to see the empty tomb. The angel instructs them to tell the disciples that Jesus has risen and will meet them in Galilee (Matthew 28:7).

As the women leave with fear and joy, Jesus meets them, saying, “Greetings!” They worship Him, grasping His feet (Matthew 28:9, ESV). Jesus repeats, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me” (Matthew 28:10, ESV).

Cross-References:

Significance: The resurrection is the cornerstone of the gospel, validating Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and conquering death. The angel’s announcement and Jesus’ appearance to the women emphasize His fulfillment of prophecy and personal care for His followers. The women’s worship and commission as witnesses highlight their role in proclaiming the good news, despite cultural norms.

2. The Guards’ Report and Bribery (Matthew 28:11-15)

As the women depart, some guards report to the chief priests what happened at the tomb (Matthew 28:11). The priests and elders devise a plan, bribing the soldiers to say, “His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep” (Matthew 28:13, ESV). They promise to protect the guards from Pilate’s punishment (Matthew 28:14). The soldiers accept the bribe, and this story spreads among the Jews “to this day” (Matthew 28:15, ESV).

Cross-References:

Significance: The bribery of the guards reveals the religious leaders’ desperate rejection of Jesus’ resurrection, despite evidence. Their lie underscores spiritual blindness and the futility of opposing God’s plan. Matthew’s note that the story persisted addresses contemporary Jewish objections, affirming the resurrection’s historical truth.

3. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20)

The eleven disciples go to Galilee, to the mountain Jesus designated (Matthew 28:16). Seeing Him, they worship, though some doubt (Matthew 28:17). Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18, ESV). He commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV). He promises, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20, ESV).

Cross-References:

Significance: The Great Commission is the culmination of Matthew’s gospel, launching the church’s mission to disciple all nations, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:3). Jesus’ universal authority establishes His divine kingship, while baptism and teaching signify incorporation into God’s covenant community and obedience to His commands. His promise of presence assures divine support, empowering believers for mission until His return.

Theological Themes

Matthew 28 weaves together several key themes:

Application for Today

Matthew 28 calls us to rejoice in Jesus’ resurrection, trusting His victory over death for our salvation. The women’s witness inspires us to proclaim the good news boldly, regardless of societal barriers. The guards’ lie warns against rejecting truth for convenience, urging us to embrace evidence of Christ’s rising. The Great Commission challenges us to make disciples through evangelism, baptism, and teaching, relying on Jesus’ authority and presence. As we reflect, may we worship the risen King, obey His command, and trust His promise to be with us always.

Conclusion

Matthew chapter 28 reveals Jesus as the risen Messiah, whose resurrection and universal authority launch the church’s global mission. Through the empty tomb, the women’s encounter, the guards’ deception, and the Great Commission, Jesus proves His victory and calls His followers to disciple all nations. As we study Matthew 28, may we believe in the risen Christ, share His gospel, and live in the assurance of His eternal presence.

Matthew 27 - Mark 1