Commentary on Matthew 28:15

The verse under consideration, Matthew 28:15, reads as follows: "So they took the money and did as they were instructed; and this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day." This verse concludes the account of the resurrection of Jesus and the subsequent events that followed it, highlighting the schemes of the religious leaders to discredit the resurrection and the establishment of the truth of the risen Christ.

Contextual Analysis

To fully comprehend the significance of Matthew 28:15, it is essential to understand its narrative context, which centers around the great commission given by Jesus post-resurrection.

• Resurrection Account: The resurrection of Jesus is a pivotal moment in Christian theology. It fulfilled prophetic scripture and established Jesus as the victorious Messiah.
• Role of the Guards: The guards at the tomb, tasked with preventing any foul play regarding Jesus' body, play a crucial role in the subsequent scandal that ensues.
• The Scheme: The religious leaders contrive a lie, enticing the guards with money to propagate the narrative that the disciples stole the body.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the implications of this deception. He points out that the guards, rather than standing as witnesses to the truth of the resurrection, became purveyors of a false narrative driven by fear of accountability. Henry suggests that this act further illustrates the lengths to which human nature will go to preserve its own power.

He remarks that the bribe offered to the soldiers reflects a moral cowardice that is pervasive among the leaders of the Jews, who would rather fabricate a story than accept the truth of the risen Christ. The widespread circulation of this tale among the Jews, as Henry notes, indicates a deeper resistance to acknowledging Jesus as Lord, fostering a culture of disbelief and division.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the New Testament

Albert Barnes provides a detailed analysis of the motives behind the religious leaders' actions. He posits that the payment to the guards was meant not only to silence them but also to create doubt in the minds of the people about the reality of the resurrection. Barnes states that the fact this story was "widely circulated" reflects a desperate attempt to confront the undeniable impact of the resurrection on the early church's growth.

Furthermore, Barnes highlights the contrast between the disciples, who were transformed from fear to bold proclaimers of the resurrection, while the religious leaders resort to deceit to protect their status. This paints a vivid picture of the struggle between truth and falsehood, setting a precedent for the challenges that would face early Christians.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke delves into the implications of the guards' obedience to their superiors in perpetuating a lie. He notes that this obedience led to a significant moral failure and serves as a cautionary example for all believers. Clarke remarks on the irony that those who were witnesses to the miraculous events surrounding the resurrection became instruments of falsehood.

Clarke also underscores the enduring lineage of such deceptions within spiritual discourse, warning that such narratives can resonate in contemporary dialogues regarding faith and evidence. He notes that the perpetuation of falsehood often finds a foothold in lack of genuine inquiry into the truth of Jesus' resurrection.

Theological Considerations

From a theological standpoint, Matthew 28:15 presents significant reflections:

• The Nature of Proof: The event encapsulates the challenge of proof in matters of faith. The resurrection is not only an event of historical significance but also one that demands personal belief and transformation.
• The Bravery of Belief: The guards' choice underscores the theme of moral courage. While they chose financial gain, the disciples chose the path of faith, preaching a risen Savior.
• Endurance of the Faith: The ongoing circulation of this lie reflects a struggle against the truth of the Gospel, an experience still prevalent in today’s world where faith is often questioned or ridiculed.

Application for Pastors and Theologians

This passage serves as a vital tool for pastors and scholars in their teaching and preaching endeavors:

• Addressing Doubts: Acknowledge the existence of doubts and challenges to faith in contemporary culture. Use this verse as a framework to discuss how truth often faces opposition.
• Encouraging Courage: Inspire congregations to choose faith and truth over comfort and fear, exemplified by the disciples who, despite their initial trepidation, became fervent proclaimers of the resurrection.
• Understanding Apologetics: Equip believers with the knowledge of early Church history and the archaeological evidence supporting the resurrection narrative as a counter to prevailing falsehoods.

Conclusion

Matthew 28:15 forces a confrontation between faith and falsehood, testimony and silence, courage and cowardice. The implications of this verse extend beyond its narrative context, offering rich insights into human nature, leadership, and the resolve required to uphold truth. It beckons believers to stand firm in their proclamation of the resurrection, echoing the call that continues to resound through centuries: "He is risen!"