Commentary on Matthew 28:13

Verse Text: "And they gave large money unto the soldiers." (Matthew 28:13)

Introduction

This passage occurs in the context of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Following the miraculous events of Easter morning, the Roman guards who were tasked with guarding the tomb are instructed to disseminate a false narrative regarding the resurrection. This verse marks a significant moment in the early attempts to deny the resurrection, an event central to Christian faith.

Contextual Analysis

Matthew 28:13 is embedded within the larger narrative of Matthew 28, where the resurrection is affirmed through the encounter of the women with the angel at the tomb and the subsequent commission of the disciples. Understanding this verse requires a close examination of the surrounding text.

• The Setting: The opening of the tomb signifies the triumph over death. The soldiers, aware of the miraculous event, represent the secular authority faced with the supernatural.
• Motivation for Fabrication: The decision to bribe the soldiers illustrates the lengths to which the authorities were willing to go to suppress the truth of Jesus' resurrection, fearing its implications on their power. This underscores the theme of conflict between faith and opposition.

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Henry emphasizes the desperate measures taken by the chief priests and elders, noting that their attempt to silence the miraculous events surrounding Christ's resurrection is indicative of a deeper spiritual conflict. He states:

"In their fear of the authority of Christ, they resorted to bribery, which speaks volumes of their internal tumult and disbelief."

Henry further articulates that this deception highlights the spiritual blindness of the leaders, who were unwilling to accept the reality of the resurrection despite the overwhelming evidence.

Albert Barnes

Barnes provides clarity on the motive behind the large sums of money paid to the soldiers. He notes:

"They were motivated by the need to maintain control and power. The resurrection of Christ would not only undermine their authority but also provoke the populace to greater faith."

According to Barnes, this act embodies the hypocrisy and moral decay present within the ruling authorities, as they preferred to shield themselves from the truth rather than acknowledge the messianic claims of Jesus.

Adam Clarke

Clarke dives deeper into the sociopolitical implications of the bribery. He asserts:

"The soldiers, though witnesses of an extraordinary event, chose financial gain over their duty to report the truth."

Clarke emphasizes that this not only showcases human greed but also reflects the pervasive nature of sin, wherein individuals may choose comfort and ease over their duty and integrity.

Theological Reflections

The occurrences in Matthew 28:13 link directly to broader theological themes regarding the nature of truth, authority, and the resistance to divine revelation. The bribery serves as a metaphor for spiritual deception, prompting believers to consider their own responses to truth:

• Truth vs. Falsehood: The deliberate spread of falsehood about the resurrection challenges believers to confront how they engage with truth in their own lives.
• Authority of Christ: The actions of the Jewish leaders highlight their unwillingness to submit to the authority of Christ, prompting reflection on the extent of one's commitment to the Lordship of Jesus.

Practical Applications

As pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars engage with this text, several practical applications arise:

• Witnessing the Truth: Believers are called to be steadfast witnesses of the truth of the resurrection, not swayed by societal pressures that seek to diminish this pivotal event.
• Moral Integrity: Like the soldiers, the temptation to compromise truth for material gain is prevalent in contemporary society. Upholding moral integrity is essential in a world filled with deception.
• Understanding Opposition: The opposition faced by early Christians in the form of bribery and falsified narratives should equip modern believers to remain resilient against similar forces today.

Conclusion

Matthew 28:13 serves as a sobering reminder of the lengths to which individuals and authorities may go to suppress the truth. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we are led to understand the deep spiritual implications surrounding this event, calling us to embrace the truth of the resurrection wholeheartedly. Believers are encouraged to proclaim this truth in a world rife with deception, standing firm in their faith.