Introduction
The phrase “He is risen” from Matthew 28 is one of the most significant proclamations in the Christian faith. It heralds the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone event that underpins Christian theology and offers profound spiritual implications for believers. This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of Matthew 28, delving into its historical context, theological significance, and the lessons it imparts for contemporary life.
Historical Context of Matthew 28
The Setting
Matthew 28 is the final chapter of the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament. It follows the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial, setting the stage for the resurrection. The chapter opens with Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” visiting Jesus’ tomb after the Sabbath, intending to anoint His body.
The Resurrection Account
As the women approach the tomb, a great earthquake occurs, and an angel of the Lord descends from heaven. The angel rolls back the stone covering the tomb’s entrance and declares to the women:
“Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, just as He said.” (Matthew 28:5-6, NIV)
This announcement is pivotal—it confirms that Jesus has conquered death, fulfilling His prophecy of resurrection.
Theological Significance
Fulfillment of Prophecy
Throughout His ministry, Jesus foretold His death and resurrection (Matthew 16:21, 17:22-23). The resurrection validates His claims of divinity and messiahship. It fulfills Old Testament prophecies, such as those found in Isaiah 53, which speak of the suffering servant who would be raised and exalted.
Victory Over Death
The resurrection signifies Jesus’ victory over sin and death. In Christian theology, death entered the world through sin (Romans 5:12). By rising from the dead, Jesus breaks the power of sin and offers eternal life to all who believe (John 3:16).
Foundation of Christian Faith
The Apostle Paul emphasizes the resurrection’s importance: “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” (1 Corinthians 15:14, NIV). The resurrection is not merely an event but the foundation upon which Christianity stands.
Spiritual Implications
Hope and Assurance
“He is risen” provides believers with hope beyond the grave. It assures them of the promise of eternal life and a future resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:14).
Empowerment for Transformation
The resurrection power is available to believers for personal transformation. Paul writes about knowing Christ and “the power of His resurrection” (Philippians 3:10). This power enables believers to live victoriously over sin.
Commissioning of Believers
In Matthew 28:18-20, known as the Great Commission, the resurrected Jesus instructs His disciples to spread the gospel to all nations. The resurrection thus propels the mission of the Church.
Practical Lessons from Matthew 28
Faith Over Fear
The angel’s words, “Do not be afraid,” address the natural human response to the supernatural. Believers are encouraged to trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem dire.
Witness and Testimony
The women at the tomb become the first witnesses to the resurrection. Their immediate action to share the news (Matthew 28:8) underscores the importance of bearing witness to one’s experiences with God.
Obedience to Christ’s Commands
The disciples’ response to Jesus’ commissioning highlights obedience. Christians are called to make disciples, baptize, and teach obedience to Jesus’ teachings.
Different Perspectives and Interpretations
The Role of Women
The fact that women were the first to witness and report the resurrection is significant, especially in a cultural context where women’s testimonies were often undervalued. This elevates the role of women in the early Church.
The Guards’ Bribery
Matthew 28:11-15 describes how the chief priests bribed the guards to spread a false report that Jesus’ body was stolen. This highlights the resistance to accepting the truth of the resurrection, a theme that persists in skepticism towards Christian claims.
Eschatological Hope
Some theologians interpret the resurrection as a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God—a future reality where God’s reign is fully realized.
Modern-Day Applications
Living in Resurrection Power
Believers are encouraged to live as “new creations” (2 Corinthians 5:17), embracing the transformative power of the resurrection in daily life.
Mission and Evangelism
The Great Commission remains a central mandate. Christians are called to engage in evangelism and discipleship, continuing the work initiated by the early disciples.
Overcoming Challenges
Just as Jesus overcame death, believers can find strength to overcome personal trials, drawing on the hope and power of the resurrection.
A Prayer Inspired by “He Is Risen” from Matthew 28
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and awe, humbled by the miraculous truth that “He is risen.” In the quiet of the dawn, we celebrate the triumph of Jesus over death, a victory that breathes life into our very souls.
Lord Jesus, Your resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, a beacon of hope that pierces the darkest nights. Thank You for conquering the grave and opening the gates of eternity for us. Through Your sacrifice and glorious rising, You have shattered the chains of sin and gifted us the promise of everlasting life.
Holy Spirit, Fill us with the power of Your resurrection. Ignite within us a passion to live as new creations, transformed by Your grace. Empower us to rise above our fears and doubts, embracing the assurance that You are always with us, guiding our steps toward Your divine purpose.
Gracious God, As we reflect on the events of that sacred morning, help us to embody the lessons of Matthew 28. Grant us the courage to witness boldly, sharing the good news of Your resurrection with a world in need of hope. Strengthen our resolve to follow the Great Commission, reaching out to all nations with love, compassion, and truth.
Creator of Life, May the reality of “He is risen” inspire us to live lives of purpose and service. Let our actions mirror the selfless love demonstrated on the cross and the boundless joy of the empty tomb. Transform our hearts so that we may be instruments of Your peace, agents of Your Kingdom here on earth.
Eternal King, We surrender our lives into Your hands, trusting in the promise that Your resurrection power sustains us. In times of trial and uncertainty, remind us of the victory that is ours through Christ. Let the assurance of Your rising fill us with unwavering faith and unshakable hope.
Almighty God, As we celebrate the resurrection, unite us in spirit and truth. May our community be a reflection of Your resurrected love, shining brightly in a world longing for redemption. Guide us to live each day in the light of Your glorious resurrection, ever mindful of the grace and mercy that You so freely bestow.
In the name of the risen Lord, Jesus Christ, We pray.
Amen.
Conclusion
“He is risen” is more than a historical statement; it is a declaration of hope, victory, and purpose. Matthew 28 encapsulates the essence of the Christian message—that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, salvation is offered to all. Understanding this passage invites believers to reflect on the profound implications for faith and practice, encouraging a life lived in the light of the resurrection.
Reflection Questions
- How does the resurrection influence your understanding of life and death?
- In what ways can you embody the hope and power of the resurrection in your daily life?
- How does the Great Commission shape your perspective on purpose and mission?
Further Reading
- The Resurrection of the Son of God by N.T. Wright
- Surprised by Hope by N.T. Wright
- The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
By exploring Matthew 28 in depth, believers and seekers alike can grasp the transformative power of the resurrection and its enduring significance in the Christian faith.
