Matthew 28:7 WEB

"Go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has risen from the dead, and behold, he goes before you into Galilee; there you will see him.’ Behold, I have told you.”"

What Does Matthew 28:7 Mean?

Matthew 28:7 is a powerful verse that encapsulates one of the most significant moments in Christian belief—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This verse comes immediately after the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary. The angel instructs them to go quickly and share the good news that Jesus has risen from the dead. The core meaning here emphasizes the urgency and joy of spreading this transformative message, which is central to the Christian faith. The resurrection signifies victory over death and sin, providing hope and assurance of eternal life for believers.

In this verse, key phrases such as "Go quickly" and "he has risen from the dead" are particularly significant. The urgency in the command indicates the importance of the news; it’s not just a casual suggestion but a vital mission. The phrase “he has risen” confirms the central tenet of Christianity—that Jesus conquered death. Additionally, the promise that He will meet the disciples in Galilee reinforces the idea of hope and restoration, as Galilee is where many of their initial encounters with Jesus took place.

Understanding this verse requires looking at its context within Matthew 28, which is the final chapter of Matthew’s Gospel. This chapter focuses on the resurrection and the Great Commission. The angel’s message sets the stage for the disciples' mission to spread the news of Jesus' resurrection to the world. This moment marks a pivotal shift from despair to hope, allowing the disciples to transform from fearful followers into bold proclaimers of the Gospel.

Common misconceptions may arise regarding the resurrection and its implications. Some may question the literal interpretation of Jesus rising from the dead. However, this event is foundational to Christian belief, affirming Jesus as the Son of God and the promise of resurrection for all believers. This verse serves as a reminder not just of the event itself but of the call to share this life-changing message with others, emphasizing the active role believers have in spreading the hope found in Christ’s resurrection.

Practical Application

Matthew 28:7 holds profound relevance for modern Christians, particularly in how we share our faith and live out the resurrection message in our daily lives. This verse encourages believers to be proactive in communicating the good news of Jesus Christ. For instance, in our workplaces or schools, we can share our testimonies or invite friends to church, embodying the urgency reflected in this verse. The resurrection should inspire us to live with hope and joy, affecting how we treat others and approach challenges.

Consider how this verse can guide you in specific situations. For example, if a friend is struggling with grief or loss, you can remind them of the hope found in the resurrection. When facing personal challenges, reflecting on the resurrection can encourage resilience and faith. Additionally, in moments of doubt or fear, recalling the angel’s message can inspire you to act with courage, knowing that God goes before you, just as He did for the disciples.

To effectively live out this teaching, start by committing to daily prayer and reading scripture to deepen your understanding of the resurrection's significance. Join a small group or Bible study focused on evangelism to practice sharing your faith in a supportive environment. Moreover, look for opportunities to serve in your community, demonstrating the love and hope of Christ to those around you.

As you reflect on Matthew 28:7, consider these personal questions: How can I be more proactive in sharing my faith with others? What does the resurrection mean to me personally, and how can I convey that to those who are searching for hope? How does the urgency of this message affect my daily life and interactions with others?

Historical Context

Matthew 28 wraps up the Gospel with the account of Jesus’ resurrection. It details how the women discover the empty tomb and receive the angel’s message. This chapter is pivotal, transitioning from despair after the crucifixion to the hope of resurrection, leading to the Great Commission. It emphasizes the mission of spreading the Gospel to all nations. The author, Matthew, was one of the twelve disciples and wrote his Gospel to present Jesus as the Messiah. He aimed to provide a clear picture of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection, encouraging faith and discipleship among his readers.

Historical Background

Matthew was written around AD 70-80, a time when the early church faced persecution. Matthew’s Gospel was intended to affirm the faith of believers and encourage them in their mission to spread the Gospel, especially in light of the resurrection. It reflects a Jewish audience, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus. The resurrection narrative in Matthew is pivotal, providing hope and a foundation for Christian belief in eternal life through Christ’s victory over death.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does 'He has risen from the dead' mean?

'He has risen from the dead' is a declaration of Jesus' victory over sin and death. This phrase is central to Christian belief, affirming that Jesus was resurrected, which offers believers hope for eternal life. It signifies that death is not the end and that through faith in Christ, we too can share in this resurrection and the promise of new life.

Why does the angel say, 'Go quickly'?

The angel’s instruction to 'Go quickly' underscores the urgency of the resurrection message. It reflects the importance of sharing the good news promptly and enthusiastically. The resurrection is a life-changing event, and the disciples are called to spread the news without delay, emphasizing the mission that Jesus entrusted to them.

What does 'there you will see him' indicate?

'There you will see him' signifies the assurance that Jesus will meet his disciples in Galilee as promised. This meeting represents a restoration of their relationship after the trauma of his crucifixion. It highlights the personal nature of Jesus’ resurrection, where he desires to reunite with his followers and empower them for their mission.

How does Matthew 28:7 relate to the Great Commission?

Matthew 28:7 sets the stage for the Great Commission found later in the chapter. The angel's message acts as a precursor, calling the disciples to witness the resurrection and later to spread the Gospel to all nations. It emphasizes the continuity between witnessing the resurrection and fulfilling the mission of evangelism.

What role do women play in this verse?

In Matthew 28:7, women play a crucial role as the first witnesses of the resurrection. The angel's instruction to them highlights the significance of their testimony in the early church. This is particularly important in a historical context where women’s voices were often marginalized, showcasing that God values all who bear witness to His truth.

Memory Tips

To memorize Matthew 28:7, focus on key phrases such as "Go quickly" and "He has risen from the dead." You can create a visual image of the angel at the tomb urging the women to share the good news. Repetition is also helpful; try writing the verse down several times or reciting it in front of a mirror.

Incorporate this verse into your daily devotions by reflecting on its meaning each morning. You might consider journaling about how the resurrection impacts your life or sharing the verse with friends or family. This not only reinforces your memory but also spreads the message.

Another effective technique is to use mnemonic devices. For example, associate the phrase “He has risen” with images of new life, like flowers blooming in spring. This connection can help solidify the verse in your memory while reminding you of its powerful message of hope and renewal.