Matthew 28:2- “There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes a miraculous and powerful moment. A violent earthquake signals divine intervention, and the appearance of an angel confirms that something extraordinary is happening. The angel, sent by God, rolls back the heavy stone sealing Jesus’ tomb, revealing that it is empty. The angel sitting on the stone is a picture of authority and triumph, as if to declare that death and the grave no longer hold power.
This act was not to let Jesus out—He had already risen—but to allow others to see the evidence of His resurrection. The earthquake and the angel’s actions underscore the magnitude of what is unfolding: God is breaking the power of death and fulfilling His promises.
Historical Context
Earthquakes were often seen in the Bible as a sign of God’s presence or power. For instance, Mount Sinai trembled when God gave Moses the Law (Exodus 19:18). Similarly, the earthquake here marks a pivotal moment in history—the resurrection of Jesus.
The angel’s appearance would have been shocking in this cultural context. Angels were understood to be messengers of God, appearing at significant moments to convey divine will. Rolling away the stone was no small task, as these tombs were sealed with large, heavy stones to protect against grave robbers or animals. The fact that a single angel accomplished this shows God’s power at work.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the power and authority of God over life and death. The resurrection is central to the Christian faith, and this verse demonstrates that God actively intervenes to accomplish His purposes.
The angel’s actions highlight that salvation is entirely God’s work. Humans had no part in rolling away the stone; it was entirely God’s doing, showing that His power alone secures victory over sin and death.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:2 is vivid and dramatic, full of action and symbolism. The violent earthquake mirrors the earlier earthquake at Jesus’ death (Matthew 27:51), tying the crucifixion and resurrection together as two parts of the same redemptive work.
The angel’s presence and posture are significant. Sitting on the rolled-away stone symbolizes victory and calm confidence, a stark contrast to the chaos and fear of the guards and those who opposed Jesus.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 27:51-54: The earthquake at Jesus’ death also signals God’s power and the significance of these events.
- Psalm 16:10: A prophecy about God not letting His Holy One see decay, fulfilled in Jesus’ resurrection.
- Acts 2:24: Speaks of God raising Jesus from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death.
- Exodus 19:18: The trembling of Mount Sinai shows God’s power, similar to the earthquake in this verse.
- Revelation 20:14: Declares the ultimate defeat of death, a victory foreshadowed in this verse.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, Matthew 28:2 reminds us of God’s ability to overcome any obstacle. Just as the stone was rolled away, God can remove barriers in our lives, especially those that keep us from fully experiencing His love and power.
The verse also reassures Christians that God’s plans will always prevail. Even when it seems like death and despair have won, God shows that He is in control, working for good and bringing life from death.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love in action. He didn’t leave humanity in despair but intervened powerfully to secure salvation through Jesus’ resurrection. The angel rolling away the stone and sitting on it is a picture of God’s intentionality and care in ensuring that the truth of the resurrection is revealed to the world.
God’s love is also seen in His willingness to disrupt the natural order—through the earthquake and the angelic appearance—to make His message of hope and life unmistakably clear.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:2 directly supports the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. The empty tomb is the evidence that Jesus has conquered death, just as He promised (Matthew 16:21; John 11:25-26). The angel’s role here is to point to this reality, affirming Jesus’ divine nature and His fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope (1 Corinthians 15:17-20). This verse sets the scene for the disciples and others to witness the proof of His victory over sin and death, affirming that He is the Savior.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the image of the angel rolling away the stone and sitting on it teach us about God’s power?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s ability to remove obstacles in your life?
- Why is the resurrection of Jesus so central to the Christian faith?
- How can you live in the confidence that God’s victory over sin and death is complete?
- In what ways does this verse deepen your understanding of God’s love for His people?
This verse captures the overwhelming power of God and sets the stage for the greatest victory in human history: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It reminds us that nothing is impossible for God and that His love and power are always at work for our good.