Summary of Matthew Chapter 28

In Matthew 28, we read the triumphant account of Jesus’ resurrection, His appearance to His followers, and the Great Commission He gives them. This chapter signifies the fulfillment of Jesus’ mission, victory over death, and the beginning of the disciples’ mission to spread the gospel to all nations.

1. The Resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:1-10):

   • At dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary go to Jesus’ tomb. Suddenly, a violent earthquake occurs as an angel of the Lord descends, rolling away the stone and sitting on it. His appearance is like lightning, and the guards tremble and faint with fear.
   • The angel tells the women not to be afraid and announces that Jesus has risen, just as He said. He instructs them to tell the disciples that Jesus will meet them in Galilee. As the women run to tell the disciples, Jesus Himself meets them, and they worship Him. Jesus repeats the angel’s instructions to meet Him in Galilee.

   Key Verses:

   • "He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay" (Matthew 28:6).
   • "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me" (Matthew 28:10).

2. The Guards’ Report (Matthew 28:11-15):

   • Some of the guards go to the chief priests to report what happened. The chief priests and elders bribe the soldiers to say that Jesus’ disciples came during the night and stole His body while they were sleeping. This false story circulates among the Jews as an explanation for the empty tomb.

   Key Verse:

   • "You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep’" (Matthew 28:13).

3. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20):

   • The eleven disciples go to the mountain in Galilee as Jesus instructed, where they see Him and worship, though some doubt. Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” and He commissions them to “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” He commands them to teach others to obey His teachings, promising that He will be with them always, “to the very end of the age.”
   • This Great Commission signifies the beginning of the church’s mission to spread the gospel worldwide, with the assurance of Jesus’ authority and presence.

   Key Verses:

   • "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:18-19).
   • "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20).

Significance of Matthew Chapter 28

1. Victory Over Death:

   • Jesus’ resurrection demonstrates His victory over death and fulfills His promise to rise on the third day. This miracle is the cornerstone of Christian faith, providing believers with the assurance of eternal life and the hope of resurrection.

2. Witnesses of the Resurrection:

   • The first witnesses of the resurrection are women, highlighting their faithfulness and courage. The angel’s and Jesus’ instructions to spread the news emphasize that the resurrection message is for everyone, encouraging all believers to share this life-changing truth.

3. Opposition and Deception:

   • The chief priests’ plot to cover up the resurrection with a false story shows the extent of their opposition to Jesus. This attempt to suppress the truth highlights the spiritual battle against deception and the importance of faithfully witnessing to the truth of the gospel.

4. The Authority and Mission of Jesus:

   • In the Great Commission, Jesus declares His authority over heaven and earth, giving the disciples a mandate to make disciples of all nations. This command extends to all believers, calling them to share the gospel, baptize, and teach Jesus’ commands, empowered by His presence and authority.

5. The Assurance of Jesus’ Presence:

   • Jesus’ promise to be with His disciples “to the very end of the age” reassures believers that He will guide, empower, and sustain them as they fulfill His mission. This divine presence provides courage and strength for every believer in their walk of faith.

Closing Prayer

Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank You for the victory of Jesus’ resurrection and the hope it brings us. Help us to live as witnesses to this truth, sharing Your gospel with boldness and love. Strengthen us to carry out the Great Commission, knowing that Jesus is with us always. May we walk faithfully in the mission You have given us, bringing the light of Christ to every nation. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.