Bible Commentary on Matthew 28:7

Text of the Verse: "And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you."

Introduction

This verse is a pivotal moment in the Resurrection narrative of the Gospel according to Matthew. It serves as a powerful declaration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and sets the stage for the Great Commission. The insights from various public domain commentaries illuminate the significance of this moment for pastors, students, theologians, and scholars alike.

Contextual Background

Matthew 28:7 occurs immediately after the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary. The angel delivers the message that Jesus has risen, a statement that is not only a fulfillment of prophecy but also serves as an invitation for the disciples to encounter the risen Lord.

Historical Context

The resurrection of Jesus is central to Christian faith. According to Albert Barnes, the reality of the resurrection is foundational to the message of the Gospel, which the disciples were to proclaim. This context of loss, grief, and the miraculous transformation through resurrection profoundly shaped the early church's proclamation and mission.

Theological Implications

Matthew Henry emphasizes the theological implications of the resurrection. It confirms Jesus as the Son of God and assures believers of their own resurrection. This moment transitions the narrative from despair to hope, signaling the dawn of a new era in salvation history.

Detailed Exegesis

Command to Go Quickly

The phrase "go quickly" implies urgency and the importance of the message. In the view of Adam Clarke, this urgency denotes the expectation that the disciples will act without delay in spreading the news of the resurrection. It reflects a divine mandate to share the good news with others, highlighting the active role of believers in the mission of God.

Telling the Disciples

The instruction to "tell his disciples" emphasizes the relational aspect of faith. Matthew Henry notes that the disciples, although initially filled with grief and fear, are to be the first recipients of this life-transforming message. This directive not only reinforces their leadership role but also illustrates the Church's mission to share the good news within our communities.

The Promise of Gathering in Galilee

The reference to Galilee carries profound significance. Albert Barnes highlights that Galilee was the place of Jesus' early ministry and the location where he would meet his disciples again. This promise of a future encounter not only reflects continuity in Jesus' ministry but also symbolizes the hope of reconciliation and fellowship for the believers.

Assurance of the Resurrection

In this verse, the assurance of Jesus’ resurrection is proclaimed as an established truth. Adam Clarke elaborates that this affirmation is essential for the disciples’ courage and conviction. The resurrection validates Jesus’ claims about His divine nature and mission, serving as a foundation for the faith of generations to come.

Reflection for Pastors and Theologians

This passage holds profound implications for pastoral ministry. The urgent command to "go quickly" is a reminder of the urgency inherent in the Christian message. It prompts reflection on how churches can embody this urgency in their ministry practices.

Faith and Mission

For theologians, this text raises critical issues regarding the relationship between faith and mission. How does the resurrection inform our understanding of discipleship and evangelism? The invitation to witness the risen Christ challenges believers to actively engage in sharing the Gospel narrative, thereby contributing to the growth and vitality of the Church.

Conclusion

Matthew 28:7 encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith – the reality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the call to proclaim this truth to the world. Through the insights gleaned from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we are reminded of our duty as followers of Christ to share this transformative message with urgency and commitment.

Key Takeaways

• Urgency of the Message: The command to act swiftly reflects the importance of sharing the Good News.
• Leadership Role of the Disciples: Emphasizes the responsibility of believers to spread the resurrection narrative.
• Reconciliation in Galilee: Symbolizes hope and continued relationship with Christ.
• Foundational Truth: The resurrection is central to Christian faith, affirming the promise of eternal life.