Matthew 28:16- “Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes the obedience of Jesus’ disciples following His resurrection. After hearing the message that Jesus had risen and would meet them in Galilee (Matthew 28:7, 10), the disciples followed His instructions and went to a specific mountain in Galilee.
The reference to “the eleven disciples” reflects the absence of Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus and taken his own life (Matthew 27:3-5). Despite their earlier fear and failure, the remaining disciples now show faith and trust in Jesus by obeying His command. This moment prepares the way for Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples, known as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).
Historical Context
Mountains often held spiritual significance in biblical history, serving as places where God revealed Himself or where important events took place. For example, Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19), and Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
Galilee was a familiar region for the disciples, as it was where Jesus had begun His ministry and where many of His teachings and miracles occurred. Jesus’ instruction to meet Him there symbolized a continuation of their mission and a return to the foundation of their calling.
The disciples’ decision to obey Jesus’ instructions reflects a shift in their faith. After the confusion and fear of Jesus’ crucifixion, they are now beginning to embrace the reality of His resurrection and the mission He has for them.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of obedience in the life of a believer. The disciples’ decision to go to Galilee demonstrates their willingness to trust and follow Jesus, even when they may not have fully understood what lay ahead.
It also points to Jesus’ faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. He had told His disciples before His death that He would rise again and meet them in Galilee (Matthew 26:32). By obeying His instruction, the disciples were positioning themselves to witness the fulfillment of His words and receive His final command.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:16 transitions the narrative from the events surrounding the resurrection to Jesus’ commissioning of His disciples. The phrase “the mountain where Jesus had told them to go” underscores the intentionality and purpose of this meeting.
The reference to “the eleven disciples” is a poignant reminder of Judas’ absence, reflecting the cost of betrayal and the challenges the disciples faced as they continued their mission. This detail also emphasizes the unity and commitment of those who remained.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 26:32: Jesus predicts that He will meet His disciples in Galilee after His resurrection.
- Matthew 17:1-2: Jesus takes Peter, James, and John to a high mountain, where He is transfigured, showing the significance of mountains in His ministry.
- Exodus 19:20: God calls Moses to Mount Sinai to receive the law, symbolizing divine instruction and revelation.
- John 21:1-14: Jesus appears to His disciples in Galilee, affirming His presence and mission.
- Acts 1:8: Jesus commissions His disciples to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth, beginning with His instructions here.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew 28:16 reminds us of the importance of obedience and trust in Jesus. Like the disciples, we may not always understand God’s plans, but when we follow His instructions, we position ourselves to experience His presence and purpose.
The journey to Galilee symbolizes the need to return to the foundation of our faith and calling. It challenges believers to seek God’s direction and be ready to step into the mission He has prepared for us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He continues to guide and call His followers, even after their failures. Despite the disciples’ earlier fear and doubt, Jesus invites them to meet Him, showing His willingness to restore and empower them for the mission ahead.
God’s love is also evident in His intentionality. By meeting the disciples in Galilee, a place full of memories of their time with Jesus, He reminds them of their calling and His faithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:16 highlights Jesus’ role as the risen Savior who faithfully leads His disciples. His instruction to meet Him in Galilee fulfills His earlier promises (Matthew 26:32) and prepares the way for His commissioning of the disciples.
This moment also points to Jesus’ authority and leadership. By gathering His disciples on the mountain, He positions Himself as the one who will equip and send them to carry out His mission (Matthew 28:18-20).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus chose Galilee as the place to meet His disciples after the resurrection?
- How does the disciples’ obedience to Jesus’ instructions encourage you in your own faith journey?
- What does the reference to “the eleven disciples” teach us about unity and perseverance in the face of challenges?
- How can you position yourself to hear and follow God’s instructions, like the disciples did in this verse?
- What does this verse teach you about Jesus’ faithfulness and His desire to guide His followers?
This verse reminds us of the importance of trusting and following Jesus, even when we don’t have all the answers. It calls us to obedience and faith as we seek to live out the mission He has given us.