Matthew 28:5-9
Introduction
The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. All that we believe, the message we preach, the hope we offer, the promise we live by, and the assurance we hold to is all a lie, and we are of all men most miserable, if Christ is not risen (1 Cor. 15:12-19). The resurrection of Jesus Christ …
Calms our Fears
In v. 5: “… do not be afraid.” This was said to people who were not only afraid but also terrified. Their whole world had been turned upside down, their hope evaporated; their future gone. They were afraid of the Romans; afraid of the Jews; afraid for the future. They feared life and death. But in the presence of the living Christ, they feared nothing.
Confirms His Word
In v. 6: “He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said.” It affirms the preordained plan of God. It affirms the trustworthiness of God’s Word. But above all, the resurrection is the confirmation of the word spoken on the cross … TETELESTAI!! “It is finished.”
Comfort our Hearts
In v. 6: “Come, see the place where He was lying.” When they saw the empty tomb, it meant one thing … He was alive. The disciples who walked the Emmaus road … burdened hearts to burning hearts. Comfort to know He is here … He is near … He will never leaves us.
Commissions out Lives
In v. 7: “And go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead.” This announcement at the tomb is in fact the heart of the Great Commission of the church. Today it is the Holy Spirit who speaks to every believer, “Go quickly and tell …” Go with the message of the risen Lord.
Clarifies our Vision
In v. 8: “… there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” Most immediately, the resurrection clarified their vision of Jesus … they saw Him again. But more than that, it clarified their vision for the future.
Causes our Joy
In v. 8: “And they departed quickly from the tomb with fear [reverence] and great joy.”
Calls for our Worship
In v. 9: “And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him.”
