Matthew 28:1- “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Matthew 28:1 sets the stage for one of the most significant moments in all of Scripture: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The verse introduces us to two women, Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary,” who went to Jesus’ tomb early on Sunday morning, immediately after the Sabbath restrictions had ended. Their journey reflects devotion, love, and courage. They didn’t know what they would encounter but went anyway, likely to mourn and perhaps anoint Jesus’ body with spices (Mark 16:1).
This verse highlights the anticipation of an event that would forever change history. It also shows the faithfulness of these women, who were among Jesus’ most loyal followers, demonstrating that God often works through the unlikely and overlooked.
Historical Context
During this time, the Jewish Sabbath was observed from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. Activities like traveling or working, even to prepare a body for burial, were strictly prohibited. That’s why these women had to wait until the first day of the week, Sunday, to visit the tomb.
Burials in first-century Palestine involved placing bodies in rock-cut tombs and sealing them with large stones. Jesus’ body was placed in such a tomb after His crucifixion (Matthew 27:59-60). The women would have known the tomb had been guarded (Matthew 27:62-66), yet their commitment drove them to go despite the obstacles.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us of God’s timing and sovereignty. The resurrection, which follows this verse, occurred at dawn on the first day of the week, symbolizing a new beginning. It marked the start of a new covenant where death was defeated, and eternal life was made possible through Jesus.
Additionally, the mention of the women highlights God’s value for all people. In a culture where women’s testimonies were often dismissed, God chose women to be the first witnesses of the resurrection, affirming their significance in His kingdom.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:1 is a transition verse, moving from the events of Jesus’ death and burial to the miracle of His resurrection. The language is simple yet deliberate, emphasizing the timing (“after the Sabbath” and “at dawn”) and the actions of the women.
The use of Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” connects this passage to earlier moments in the Gospel where they were present at the crucifixion and burial (Matthew 27:55-61). This continuity underscores their faithfulness and the consistency of the narrative.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 16:1-2: Provides additional details about the women bringing spices to anoint Jesus’ body.
- Luke 24:1-3: Describes the same event but adds that they found the stone rolled away.
- John 20:1-2: Focuses on Mary Magdalene’s perspective during the visit to the tomb.
- Genesis 2:2-3: The Sabbath is first instituted, connecting the resurrection to themes of rest and new beginnings.
- Isaiah 53:9: A prophecy about Jesus being buried in a rich man’s tomb, fulfilled in Matthew 27:57-60.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern believers, Matthew 28:1 is a call to faith and trust in God’s promises. The women went to the tomb without knowing what they would find, yet they acted in love and obedience. Christians are reminded to approach God with the same faithfulness, trusting Him even when the path is unclear.
The verse also encourages Christians to look beyond obstacles, like the women who went to the tomb despite the challenges they might face. It’s a lesson in perseverance and devotion.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Matthew 28:1 demonstrates God’s care and intentionality in revealing His plans. By allowing these women to be the first to encounter the empty tomb, God shows that His love and grace extend to all, regardless of societal status or expectation.
God’s love is evident in the events that follow this verse—the resurrection—which is the ultimate display of His desire to reconcile humanity to Himself.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:1 directly leads to the proof of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Jesus’ resurrection, which is revealed shortly after this verse, fulfills His own predictions (Matthew 16:21; John 2:19) and Old Testament prophecies (Psalm 16:10; Hosea 6:2).
The women’s journey to the tomb is a reminder of Jesus’ humanity in His death and His divinity in His resurrection. It connects His role as the suffering servant (Isaiah 53) to His identity as the risen Savior.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What can we learn from the faithfulness and courage of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary?
- How does this verse encourage us to trust in God’s timing and plans?
- Why do you think God chose women to be the first witnesses of the resurrection?
- How does the resurrection give hope in your daily life?
- In what ways can we show the same devotion to Jesus as these women did?
This verse is a quiet yet profound beginning to the greatest story ever told—the triumph of Jesus over death and His gift of eternal life to all who believe.