Matthew 28
The Story of the Resurrection of Jesus
The resurrection story announces that Jesus is not in the tomb: He is risen, as He said.
Setting and Context
Matthew 28 follows the crucifixion, burial, and guarded tomb. The disciples have scattered, Jesus has died, and the hopes attached to Him appear buried. The resurrection reverses that despair with the announcement that He is risen.
The Story
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary come to the tomb. An angel descends, the stone is rolled back, and the guards shake with fear. The angel tells the women not to fear because Jesus, who was crucified, is not there.
The announcement is direct: "He is risen, as he said." The empty tomb is tied to Jesus' own words. The women are invited to see the place where the Lord lay and then sent quickly to tell His disciples.
The resurrection leads into mission. Jesus meets His followers and later gives the Great Commission. Matthew does not treat the resurrection as a private comfort only, but as the foundation for worship, witness, and discipleship.
Meaning and Importance
Women come to the tomb and meet an angel who tells them Jesus has risen. They are sent to tell the disciples. The resurrection stands at the center of Christian hope and proclamation.
The resurrection is the center of Christian hope. It declares that Jesus is vindicated, death is defeated, and His words are trustworthy. The empty tomb turns fearful disciples into witnesses and anchors the message of the Gospel.
Biblical Art Connected to This Story
Key KJV Verses
Matthew 28:5
“And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.”
Read Matthew 28Matthew 28:6
“He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
Read Matthew 28Matthew 28:7
“And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.”
Read Matthew 28What This Story Teaches
- The resurrection is announced as historical good news.
- Fear gives way to witness: the women are sent to tell the disciples.
- Christian hope rests on the risen Christ.
Questions about Resurrection
Where is the resurrection of Jesus in the Bible?
The resurrection is recorded in all four Gospels, including Matthew 28.
What did the angel say at the tomb?
The angel said Jesus was not there, for He had risen as He said.