Matthew 28:9 WEB

"As they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!”"

What Does Matthew 28:9 Mean?

In Matthew 28:9, we find a profound and uplifting moment following the resurrection of Jesus. The verse captures the exact moment when the women, who had come to the tomb to care for Jesus' body, encounter the risen Lord. The core message is one of joy and reassurance. Jesus meets them with a simple yet powerful command: 'Rejoice!' This greeting signifies not just a momentary happiness but an invitation to experience the profound joy that comes from the resurrection, symbolizing victory over death and sin.

The phrase 'As they went to tell his disciples' indicates the urgency and excitement of the women as they carry the news of Jesus' resurrection. This is significant because it highlights their role as the first witnesses of the resurrection, which flips societal norms of the time, where women were often not considered reliable witnesses. The use of 'behold' draws attention to the miraculous nature of the encounter. Jesus’ greeting, 'Rejoice!', serves as a reminder that His resurrection brings hope and joy, a message that transcends the initial sorrow of His crucifixion.

Contextually, this verse is part of the concluding chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, where the narrative culminates in the resurrection. This event is central to Christian faith, marking the defeat of death and the promise of eternal life. The entire chapter focuses on the resurrection and its implications, making this verse a critical pivot in the story of Jesus. It illustrates the transformation from despair to joy, encapsulating the essence of the Christian message.

One common misconception is that 'rejoice' is merely a call to celebrate; however, it is much deeper. It signifies a call to recognize the profound change in the relationship between God and humanity through Jesus' resurrection. The joy expressed here is not just for the moment, but a lasting joy that believers are called to share with others, emphasizing the communal aspect of faith and the importance of proclaiming the good news to all people. This verse encapsulates the heart of the gospel, making it a significant point of reflection for all Christians today.

Practical Application

Matthew 28:9 has significant relevance in modern Christian life, emphasizing the importance of joy in the midst of trials. The command 'Rejoice!' is not restricted to moments of happiness but extends to all circumstances, reminding believers that joy can stem from their relationship with Christ, even amid hardships. This can be particularly empowering in times of personal struggle, loss, or uncertainty, encouraging Christians to find their strength in faith.

For instance, consider a situation where someone is facing a difficult diagnosis or financial troubles. In these moments, remembering Jesus’ resurrection and His command to rejoice can help shift focus from despair to hope. Similarly, during times of grief or loss, the joy of the resurrection can provide comfort and the assurance that death is not the end. Just as the women were called to share the good news, believers today are encouraged to share their experiences of joy and hope with others, fostering a sense of community and support.

To live out the teaching of Matthew 28:9, individuals can take actionable steps such as starting each day with a moment of gratitude and reflection on the joy that comes from their faith. This could be through prayer, reading scripture, or simply sharing uplifting messages with friends and family. Additionally, participating in community service or outreach programs can help spread joy and hope to those in need, embodying the message of Christ’s resurrection.

Finally, here are a few personal reflection questions: How do you find joy in your daily life? What are some specific ways you can share this joy with others? In what situations do you struggle to maintain a joyful perspective, and how can the message of Jesus’ resurrection help you in those moments?

Historical Context

Matthew 28:9 is situated at the end of the Gospel of Matthew, following the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. This chapter recounts the events of the resurrection, emphasizing its significance as the culmination of Jesus' earthly ministry. It highlights the role of women as the first witnesses, marking a pivotal moment in the early Christian community and illustrating the profound impact of Jesus' resurrection on His followers.

Historical Background

The Gospel of Matthew is traditionally attributed to Matthew, a tax collector and one of Jesus' disciples, and is believed to have been written between 70-85 AD. This time period was crucial for the early Church as it sought to define its identity and authority in a predominantly Jewish context, while also reaching out to Gentile believers. Matthew’s account emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly in relation to His resurrection.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does 'Rejoice!' mean in this context?

'Rejoice!' in Matthew 28:9 is a command from Jesus that signifies profound joy and celebration. It's an invitation to embrace the good news of His resurrection. This joy is not just emotional; it reflects the hope and assurance that believers have in their faith, knowing that Jesus has overcome death and offers eternal life.

Why did Jesus appear to the women first?

Jesus appearing first to women in Matthew 28:9 is significant because it challenges the societal norms of the time, where women's testimonies were often undervalued. This choice emphasizes the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry and highlights the important role women played in the early Church, making them the first witnesses of the resurrection.

How does this verse relate to the Great Commission?

Matthew 28:9 serves as a precursor to the Great Commission found in verses 18-20. The joy experienced by the women as they encounter the risen Christ motivates them to go and tell His disciples. This sets the stage for the command to spread the good news to all nations, emphasizing that joy in Christ compels believers to share their faith.

What should Christians learn from this encounter?

Christians can learn from this encounter that joy is an essential aspect of faith, especially in times of uncertainty. The command to 'Rejoice!' reminds believers that despite their circumstances, the reality of Jesus' resurrection provides hope and assurance. It encourages believers to embrace and share this joy as a vital part of their witness to others.

How can we experience joy like the women did?

Experiencing joy like the women in Matthew 28:9 involves cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus and recognizing the impact of His resurrection in our lives. Engaging in prayer, worship, and community can help strengthen faith and foster a deeper sense of joy. Actively sharing this joy with others can also enhance the sense of community and reinforce the joy experienced in faith.

Memory Tips

To remember Matthew 28:9 effectively, focus on key phrases such as 'Rejoice!' and 'Jesus met them.' These words encapsulate the essence of this verse—joy and divine encounter. Visualizing the scene of the women meeting the risen Jesus can help reinforce this memory.

Incorporating Matthew 28:9 into daily devotions can be beneficial. Consider starting each day by reflecting on the joy of Christ's resurrection. A practical tip is to write the verse on a sticky note and place it somewhere visible, like your mirror or workspace, to remind you of this joyful command throughout the day.

You can also create a mnemonic device, such as the phrase 'Risen Joy' to encapsulate the essence of the verse. This simple phrase can serve as a reminder to rejoice in all circumstances, as the women did when they encountered Jesus after His resurrection.