Matthew 28:8 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 28:8 Meaning

This verse captures a powerful moment for the women who have just witnessed a monumental event in the history of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The women, Mary Magdalene and another Mary, go to the tomb to pay their respects, and upon discovering it empty, they encounter an angel who tells them that Jesus has risen. The phrase “hurry away from the tomb” highlights their immediate response to this astonishing news. Their emotions are in conflict; they are filled with fear, a common reaction when facing the divine, yet they also experience joy, signaling a transformative moment in their lives. This mixture of fear and joy is quite relatable; we often find ourselves feeling a blend of emotions when we encounter significant life changes, God moments, or challenges that require our faith.

In this context, their fear did not paralyze them but coexisted with their joy, compelling them to take action. In many ways, this captures the essence of our faith journey. We are often afraid of what the future holds or the challenges we face, but this fear can also be combined with the joy of knowing God is in control. As the women run to tell the disciples, we see the call to share the good news of Christ’s resurrection with others, demonstrating how our faith can propel us into action, even when we are unsure or afraid.

Matthew 28:8 Commentary and Explanation

When we reflect on this moment, we can see how it illustrates several important aspects of our Christian faith. The women serve as the initial witnesses to the resurrection of Christ, a significant event that forms the cornerstone of Christianity. This act of the women shows their vital role in spreading the news of Jesus’s rising, even before His male disciples. It breaks societal norms that may have diminished women’s voices in that era, signifying how God chooses to work through those who might not fit the world’s expectations. This can inspire all of us when we think we cannot serve because we feel unworthy or unqualified.

The mix of fear and joy is potent and something we can all relate to. Have you ever felt joy in your heart, but anxiety in your mind? It’s a common human experience. This verse encourages us to acknowledge both; it is okay to feel frightened and joyful, especially at times of great significance or change. Just as the women did not allow their fear to stop them from acting, we are called to move through our fears and uncertainties, deciding to trust in God’s promises. Our fears are not the end; they can be the push we need to share our faith and spread the good news about Jesus Christ with others.

Moreover, this verse illustrates the importance of community and sharing. The women’s role is not just about their personal experience but about bringing that experience to others. They ran to tell the disciples what they had witnessed, which invites us to ask how we share our own faith experiences. Are we quick to share the good news of what Christ has done in our lives with others? This aspect of sharing faith plays a crucial role in the broader narrative of the Gospel. It emphasizes a community of believers working together to spread God’s love and the message of salvation. This is an inclusive call to action for all believers to be messengers of hope and encouragement to those around them.

Lastly, we can reflect on the significance of joy in our faith. Joy isn’t just an emotion; it signifies a state of being, an understanding of the great love we receive from God. When we recognize the goodness of God, our hearts are transformed. This joy should overflow into our actions toward others—not just sharing our joy, but creating an environment that fosters joy, hope, and love. The experience of the women at the tomb reveals how encountering Jesus and His power allows us to overcome fear and embrace joy, encouraging a life of proactive faith and community involvement. Observing this transformative moment also reminds us that turbulent emotions can coexist and that God is there to embrace us through every stage of our lives.

Historical and Literary Context of Matthew 28:8

Understanding the historical and literary context of Matthew 28:8 greatly enriches our appreciation of its meaning. The Gospel of Matthew was written primarily for a Jewish audience, and its author intended to highlight Jesus as the Messiah and fulfill Old Testament prophecies. This particular passage occurs at the climax of the Gospel—Jesus’s resurrection. This moment is the fulfillment of His promise that He would rise after three days (Matthew 16:21).

The resurrection is not merely a miraculous event; it is the foundation of Christian theology. This event signifies victory over sin and death, a core tenet of the faith. Matthew’s account is unique because it emphasizes the role of women at the tomb, counteracting cultural norms where women were often viewed as less credible witnesses. By choosing women as the first witnesses of the resurrection, Matthew not only gives them a significant role but also provides a message of inclusivity.

Literarily, Matthew employs contrasting themes of fear and joy. This tension creates a dynamic scene that adds depth to the story. The women experience fear due to the angels and unknown circumstances, yet simultaneously feel joy upon realizing Jesus has risen. This creative juxtaposition encourages readers to embrace the complexity of emotions within faith. Furthermore, this passage serves as a transition from Christ’s ministry to the calling of the disciples to fulfill the Great Commission, where they were instructed to spread the message of Jesus to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

Additionally, understanding the Jewish cultural background helps us appreciate the significance of the empty tomb. For the Jewish people, burial practices were a serious matter, and a missing body would raise concerns and questions. The fact that the tomb is empty signifies that death has been defeated. The angel’s message to the women is pivotal in that it confirms Jesus’s victory and solidifies the truth of His teachings. This moment transitions us from mourning to celebration—a clear depiction of the hope that Christians now have in eternal life through Christ.

In summary, the historical and literary context invites us to look closely at how Matthew’s Gospel portrays the importance of resurrection, the value of women, and the joy of living out our faith. The message is timeless—fearing God can be thrilling, and enduring emotional complexity is a part of our journey with Christ. Thus, the context serves to remind us that embracing faith goes beyond mere emotion; it encompasses action, responsibility, and an ever-deepening relationship with Jesus.

Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 28:8

To understand Matthew 28:8 thoroughly, let’s break down its key elements:

1. “So the women hurried away…”

This shows their immediate response. They didn’t linger or hesitate. Their encounter with the angel and message of Jesus’s resurrection spurred them into action.

2. “…from the tomb…”

The tomb symbolizes both death and the physical confines of Jesus. The women exiting represents moving from death to life and the transition from mourning to joy.

3. “…afraid yet filled with joy…”

This highlights the duality of emotion. Fear and joy often coexist in transformative experiences, reminding us of God’s power and the natural response to fear.

4. “…and ran to tell his disciples.”

Action is critical. The command from the angel sparked their mission to share the good news. Just as they rushed to spread the word, we are called to do the same in sharing our faith in Christ.

Theological Significance of Matthew 28:8

The theological implications of Matthew 28:8 are profound and resonate through the entire Christian experience. The resurrection is central to Christian faith, offering hope in eternal life and showcasing God’s victory over sin and death—a concept that is reinforced across the New Testament. By being the first witnesses, the women embody the theme of inclusivity in God’s plan of salvation; it signifies that Jesus came for all people, not just a select few.

Furthermore, the reaction of the women encapsulates a crucible moment where fear encounters hope. This duality allows us to confront our own struggles and fears in the light of God’s promises. God does not promise a life free from fear, but rather companionship through those fears. This aspect of fear and joy intertwines beautifully within theological discussions around worship and discipleship; genuine encounters with God often transform our fears into testimonies of His faithfulness. Through this lens, we understand that true joy in our lives will often arise amidst our fears.

As we reflect on this passage, we also begin to appreciate the call to evangelism. The women didn’t simply rejoice silently; they were compelled to share the news of Jesus’s resurrection. This notion prompts us to recognize our own mission to be shareers of good news. Each of us has a testimony; our experiences with God can encourage and empower others. This call to action is echoed through the Great Commission found later in Matthew 28, which further emphasizes that as believers, we have a part to play in God’s unfolding story.

Ultimately, Matthew 28:8 serves as a reminder that faith is not passive; it requires action. Our theological understanding transforms our hearts, but it should also lead us to share our encounters and stories with others, reminding us of the power of community and witness in the life of a believer. We stand witness to God’s love in a broken world, and this provides meaning to both our fears and joys. The resurrection of Christ becomes not just a historical event but a living reality that renews our spirits and beckons us toward active engagement with God’s mission.

Matthew 28:8 Cross-References and Related Verses

Matthew 16:24

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24

This verse underscores the act of surrender as a central aspect of discipleship. Following Jesus requires self-denial and an intentional choice to put aside our own desires, ambitions, and plans. Taking up the cross symbolizes embracing the challenges and sacrifices that may come with following Jesus. Surrendering to this idea highlights that following Christ is active, especially when it requires personal sacrifice.

John 20:18

“Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.” – John 20:18

This verse aligns beautifully with Matthew 28:8 as it reiterates Mary Magdalene’s active role in sharing the message of the resurrection. It emphasizes how the proclamation of Jesus’s resurrection was primarily delivered through women, showcasing their essential role in early Christianity. This reinforces the theme of joy in sharing the love and hope that comes from an encounter with Christ.

Acts 1:8

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8

This passage connects with Matthew 28:8 as it draws the believer’s attention to their mission driven by the Holy Spirit. After Jesus’s ascension, His followers are charged to continue spreading the message of His resurrection. This ties back to the call for each believer to be witnesses, actively sharing the life-changing news of Jesus Christ, as the women did after encountering the angel at the tomb.

Practical Application of Matthew 28:8

Here are ways we can practically apply the meaning of Matthew 28:8 in our lives:

1. Embrace Emotions

Like the women, we can acknowledge that feeling both joy and fear is completely normal. In our spiritual journeys, we may often feel excited about new opportunities but equally afraid of the uncertainties that lie ahead. It’s important to embrace these emotions as part of our growth. We can invite God into our feelings, asking for strength and guidance as we pursue our calling, trusting Him with our fears while remaining joyful in His promise.

2. Share Your Faith Actively

Just as the women hurried to tell others about the resurrection, we also need to take our faith seriously and find ways to share it. Whether it’s discussing our beliefs with friends, volunteering for community service, or simply lending a listening ear to someone in need, we are called to share the good news of Christ deliberately. Evangelism can take many forms; it could be through our words, actions, or the way we treat others. Let’s find intentional ways to be harbingers of hope in a world that needs it.

3. Foster Community

We should seek to create environments that encourage sharing our experiences of faith. Invitation to church, hosting group discussions, or simply checking in with a friend can help foster a sense of community. Sharing stories of how God has moved in our lives encourages one another and builds faith collectively. Just as the women sought out the disciples, we can actively pursue healthy relationships that promote spiritual growth.

4. Rejoice in God’s Goodness

We are invited to celebrate God’s goodness. Finding joy in our prayers and worship, even during challenging times, can help strengthen our connection with God. Creating spaces to give thanks for His provisions and recognizing our blessings can become an integral part of our daily lives.

5. Step Out in Faith

Like the women who chose to move despite their fear, we, too, must take steps of faith. That might mean serving in unfamiliar areas, trying new pursuits, or stepping out of our comfort zones. God calls us to trust Him beyond our limitations. Taking action can lead to profound growth in our relationship with Him and reveal new opportunities to spread His love.

Reflection and Devotional Thought on Matthew 28:8

As we reflect on Matthew 28:8, let us take time to consider what the resurrection of Jesus means for us personally. The joy the women felt is attainable for each of us; it can fill our hearts when we understand the love of Christ. Recognizing that we can have both joy and fear enables us to become more authentic in our spiritual walks. Instead of being paralyzed by fear, we find empowerment in knowing that Christ’s love conquers all.

In moments of anxiety, we can remind ourselves of this scripture. Let’s take a moment to breathe and pray, asking God to transform any fear into motivation. Jesus’s resurrection serves as a cornerstone for our faith and reminds us that death does not have the final word. Through Him, we have new life. This is a powerful testament to His promises, and as we meditate on this truth, may it help us to walk with confidence in our calling as believers.

Let us actively seek ways to express our gratitude and share the transformative love of Christ with the world around us. In doing so, we honor the resurrection—not just as a historical event, but as a life-changing reality that fosters joy, hope, and purpose in our lives. Amen.

Final Thoughts

Matthew 28:8 is rich with meaning and serves as a poignant reminder of the joy we can find in Jesus’s resurrection. We can take comfort in the fact that our fears do not have to hinder us; they can coexist with our joy and propel us to fulfill God’s mission. By embracing our dual emotions, sharing our faith actively, uplifting one another in community, celebrating God’s goodness, and stepping beyond our comfort zones, we can live out our faith with vibrant enthusiasm.

As we go forth, let us remember that we are called to be messengers of His resurrection. This passage teaches us not to shy away from the challenges but to embrace them as opportunities to deepen our faith. Let’s carry that joyful message to others, reflecting on what it means to be transformed by His love. We have the gift of the Good News. Let’s share it generously with the world! If you are interested in learning more about the scriptures, check out this resource for additional insights and topics of faith.