Matthew 28:17- “When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes the reaction of the disciples when they saw the risen Jesus in Galilee. Some of them immediately worshiped Him, recognizing Him as the Lord and Messiah, but others hesitated or doubted.
The doubt mentioned here does not necessarily imply disbelief. It could reflect uncertainty or hesitation, as the disciples were processing the miraculous reality of Jesus’ resurrection. Seeing Jesus alive after His crucifixion would have been overwhelming and difficult to comprehend fully.
The combination of worship and doubt is a reminder of the complexity of human faith. It shows that even those closest to Jesus struggled at times to grasp the fullness of who He is and what His resurrection means.
Historical Context
The disciples had been through a whirlwind of events, from witnessing Jesus’ crucifixion to hearing reports of His resurrection. While some had already encountered the risen Jesus (John 20:19-29), this meeting in Galilee was a significant gathering where all the remaining disciples could see Him together.
In the culture of the time, worship was an act reserved for God alone. By worshiping Jesus, the disciples were acknowledging His divinity. However, the presence of doubt highlights the challenge of transitioning from seeing Jesus as a teacher and leader to fully understanding Him as the risen Lord.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights both the humanity of the disciples and the divine nature of Jesus. Their worship affirms His identity as God, while their doubt reflects the ongoing process of faith and understanding.
It also shows that Jesus welcomes worship from imperfect people. The presence of doubt does not disqualify the disciples from their calling; instead, Jesus uses this moment to strengthen their faith and prepare them for their mission.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:17 captures a moment of tension and transition. The phrase “they worshiped him” is a powerful declaration of Jesus’ divinity, while “but some doubted” introduces a note of realism. This duality reflects the disciples’ journey of faith, moving from uncertainty to full conviction.
The simplicity of the verse allows readers to relate to the disciples’ experience. It acknowledges the struggles of faith without diminishing the significance of worshiping Jesus as the risen Savior.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 20:24-29: Thomas initially doubts the resurrection but later confesses Jesus as “My Lord and my God.”
- Luke 24:36-43: Jesus reassures His disciples by showing them His hands and feet and eating with them, addressing their doubts.
- Psalm 95:6: “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker,” emphasizing worship as an act of acknowledging God’s sovereignty.
- Matthew 14:31: Jesus addresses Peter’s doubt when he begins to sink while walking on water, showing His patience with imperfect faith.
- James 1:6: Encourages believers to approach God with faith, even as they wrestle with doubt.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is an encouragement that faith and doubt can coexist. Doubt does not mean rejection of faith; it can be a step toward deeper understanding and trust in God. Like the disciples, believers are invited to bring their uncertainties to Jesus and worship Him as the risen Lord.
This verse also reminds us that worship is a response to encountering Jesus. When we recognize who He is and what He has done, worship becomes the natural outpouring of our hearts, even if we are still growing in faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to meet His disciples where they are—both in their worship and their doubt. He does not condemn them for their hesitation but uses the moment to strengthen their faith and prepare them for their mission.
This verse reflects God’s understanding of human frailty. He knows that faith is a journey, and His love remains constant, even when we struggle to fully trust or comprehend His work.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:17 centers on the disciples’ response to the risen Jesus. Their worship acknowledges His divinity and the fulfillment of His promise to rise from the dead.
The mention of doubt underscores Jesus’ patience and grace. He does not dismiss the disciples for their hesitation but continues to lead them, culminating in His commissioning them to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This moment highlights Jesus’ role as both Savior and Teacher, guiding His followers into greater faith and understanding.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think some of the disciples doubted when they saw the risen Jesus?
- How does this verse encourage you in moments when your faith feels uncertain?
- What does this verse teach us about the relationship between worship and doubt?
- How can we respond to Jesus with worship, even when we don’t fully understand His plans?
- What steps can you take to bring your doubts to Jesus and allow Him to strengthen your faith?
This verse reminds us that Jesus welcomes us, even with our doubts, and calls us to worship Him as the risen Lord. It encourages believers to trust in His patience and love as we grow in faith and understanding.