Matthew 28:10- “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus speaks directly to the women who have just encountered Him after His resurrection. His first words, “Do not be afraid,” are meant to calm their natural fear and reassure them of His presence and victory over death. Jesus often used this phrase during His ministry, showing His care for those who followed Him.
He then gives them a task: to tell His disciples—whom He lovingly calls “my brothers”—to go to Galilee, where they will see Him. Referring to the disciples as “brothers” highlights the deep relationship Jesus has with them, despite their earlier abandonment during His arrest and crucifixion. This message is both an invitation and a promise: Jesus is alive, and He will reunite with His followers.
Historical Context
The setting of this verse follows the resurrection, an event that had left the disciples scattered and likely fearful for their own safety. They were in hiding after Jesus’ crucifixion, unsure of what to do next.
Galilee, mentioned here, was the region where Jesus began His ministry and where He had spent much time teaching and performing miracles. It was a familiar place for the disciples and would become the location where Jesus would give them their mission to spread the Gospel to the world (Matthew 28:18-20).
The fact that women were entrusted with delivering this message is significant. In a culture where women’s testimony was often disregarded, Jesus elevates their role, showing that God’s plan includes everyone, regardless of societal norms.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals Jesus’ compassion and forgiveness. Despite the disciples’ failure to stand by Him during His suffering, He still calls them His brothers and extends His love and grace. This reflects the heart of the Gospel: God’s love is not based on human performance but on His mercy and grace.
The command to “go and tell” points to the responsibility of all believers to share the message of Jesus’ resurrection. The promise that the disciples will see Jesus reinforces the truth of His bodily resurrection and the hope of His ongoing presence with His followers.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:10 combines reassurance, command, and promise in a single sentence. The phrase “Do not be afraid” mirrors the angel’s earlier words (Matthew 28:5), emphasizing the peace that comes with Jesus’ presence.
The reference to the disciples as “my brothers” is personal and tender, contrasting with the formal titles often used by leaders. This choice of words shows Jesus’ humility and His commitment to restoring and strengthening His relationship with His followers.
The promise that the disciples will see Jesus in Galilee creates anticipation and provides a concrete goal for them to look forward to, marking the next step in their journey of faith.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 26:32: Jesus predicts that after His resurrection, He will go ahead of His disciples to Galilee.
- Hebrews 2:11: Jesus is not ashamed to call His followers “brothers,” emphasizing their relationship with Him.
- John 20:19-23: Jesus appears to His disciples and brings them peace after His resurrection.
- Psalm 133:1: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity,” reflecting the reconciliation Jesus offers.
- Acts 1:8: Jesus commissions His disciples to be His witnesses, fulfilling the purpose He begins to outline here.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse reminds us that Jesus meets us with grace and peace, even when we fall short. Like the disciples, we are invited into a relationship with Him and given a purpose to share His message with others.
The call to “go and tell” is a timeless challenge for Christians to spread the good news of Jesus’ resurrection. His promise to meet His followers gives us confidence that He is present with us in every step of our faith journey.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love in action. Jesus doesn’t dwell on the disciples’ past failures but instead affirms their value and purpose by calling them “brothers” and inviting them to meet Him. God’s love is restorative, turning broken relationships into opportunities for grace and reconciliation.
The assurance that Jesus will meet the disciples reflects God’s desire for closeness with His people. His love is not distant or conditional but intimate and enduring, offering hope and peace to those who follow Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:10 centers on Jesus as the risen Savior who overcomes death and restores His followers. His appearance confirms the truth of His resurrection and His power over sin and the grave (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
By calling His disciples “brothers,” Jesus emphasizes the relational nature of His mission. He is not only their Lord but also their companion and friend, fulfilling His promise to never leave or forsake them (John 14:18).
The command to go to Galilee reflects Jesus’ role as the leader and shepherd of His people. He goes ahead of them, guiding and preparing them for the mission of spreading the Gospel to the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ reassurance to “not be afraid” encourage you in your faith journey?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus calls His disciples “brothers” despite their earlier failures?
- How can this verse inspire you to share the message of Jesus with others?
- In what ways have you experienced Jesus’ presence and peace in your life?
- How does this verse deepen your understanding of God’s love and forgiveness?
This verse highlights the peace, purpose, and promise found in the risen Jesus. It calls us to embrace His grace, share His message, and trust in His presence as we follow Him.