Matthew 28 King James

The Risen Christ

The final chapter of Matthew's Gospel, Matthew 28, is a pivotal passage in the New Testament. It recounts the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection and his final instructions to his disciples.

The Resurrection (vv. 1-10)

After the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to Jesus' tomb to anoint his body. Suddenly, there was a great earthquake, an angel descended from heaven, and the stone covering the tomb was rolled away. The angel appeared to the women, calming their fears and announcing that Jesus had risen.

The women ran to tell the disciples, but some doubted their story. Meanwhile, Jesus himself met the women and instructed them to tell his disciples to meet him in Galilee.

The Great Commission (vv. 11-20)

While the disciples were gathered in Galilee, Jesus appeared to them and gave them the Great Commission. He commanded them to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."

Jesus promised to be with his disciples "alway, even unto the end of the world." This promise reassured them of his continual presence and support.

The Ascension (vv. 16-20)

After the Great Commission, Jesus led his disciples to a mountain in Galilee. There, he instructed them to preach the gospel to all nations and to teach people to obey his commandments.

Finally, Jesus ascended into heaven, leaving the disciples with the promise that he would return one day.

Significance

The events recorded in Matthew 28 have profound implications for Christians:

• The resurrection of Jesus: Jesus' resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. It affirms that he is the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
• The Great Commission: The Great Commission is a mandate for all Christians to share the gospel with others and to make disciples.
• The promise of Christ's presence: Jesus' promise to be with his disciples always is a source of comfort and assurance.
• The hope of Christ's return: The ascension of Jesus gives Christians hope for his eventual return and the establishment of his kingdom on earth.