...

Matthew 28:4 Meaning

Matthew 28:4- “The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse describes the reaction of the Roman guards stationed at Jesus’ tomb when they witnessed the angel and the earthquake. These guards were likely seasoned soldiers, accustomed to dangerous situations. However, their terror in this moment was so overwhelming that they trembled and were paralyzed with fear, likened to being “like dead men.”

The sight of the angel, with his brilliant appearance and divine power, was more than they could bear. Their reaction contrasts sharply with the calmness and purpose of the angel, highlighting the supernatural nature of what was taking place. This verse underscores the awe-inspiring reality of God’s intervention, which even the strongest humans cannot withstand without fear.

Historical Context

Roman guards were posted at the tomb by the request of the religious leaders to prevent Jesus’ disciples from stealing His body and claiming He had risen (Matthew 27:62-66). These guards represented the power of Rome, the greatest empire of the time, and were tasked with ensuring that the tomb remained sealed.

Their reaction to the angel shows the overwhelming power of God compared to human authority. No amount of military strength or political power could stand against the divine. The guards’ fear also validates the reality of the angel’s appearance and the extraordinary events at the tomb.

Theological Implications

This verse demonstrates the fear and awe that accompany the presence of God. The guards’ reaction reflects humanity’s natural response to encountering the divine without being prepared or in a right relationship with God. It highlights the truth that God’s power is greater than any human strength or institution.

Additionally, this moment reveals that the resurrection is not just a spiritual event but also a physical, historical one. The guards, who were outsiders with no vested interest in Jesus, serve as unexpected witnesses to the supernatural reality of what occurred.

Literary Analysis

The imagery in this verse is vivid and contrasts the strength of the guards with their sudden helplessness. Words like “shook” and “like dead men” emphasize their utter inability to respond to what they saw. This description creates a sense of awe and drama, setting the stage for the women’s encounter with the angel in the next verses.

The use of fear as a literary device underscores the weight of the resurrection event. It shows that God’s power is undeniable and leaves no room for neutrality in the face of His work.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

  • Daniel 10:7-8: Daniel reacts with trembling and weakness when encountering an angel, similar to the guards’ response.
  • Exodus 19:16: The Israelites tremble at Mount Sinai when they witness God’s power through thunder and lightning.
  • Psalm 2:4: Speaks of how human powers are insignificant before God’s authority.
  • Revelation 1:17: John falls “as though dead” when he sees the glorified Christ, reflecting the overwhelming nature of divine encounters.
  • Matthew 27:54: The centurion and soldiers at the crucifixion are also filled with fear, recognizing God’s presence.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers, Matthew 28:4 serves as a reminder of God’s unmatched power. It challenges Christians to reflect on their own response to God’s work. While the guards were paralyzed with fear, believers are invited to approach God with awe and trust, knowing His power is for their good.

This verse also reassures Christians that God’s plans cannot be thwarted by human opposition. The guards’ fear demonstrates that no earthly authority can stand in the way of God’s purposes, including the resurrection of Jesus.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is displayed in His power to fulfill His promises, even in the face of human resistance. The fear of the guards contrasts with the comfort and hope that the angel brings to the women who arrive at the tomb. This shows that God’s love is accessible to those who seek Him, while His power is a source of awe for those who oppose or deny Him.

By allowing the guards to witness this event, God provides additional evidence of the resurrection, further emphasizing His desire for humanity to know the truth and turn to Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The guards’ reaction to the angel underscores the significance of Jesus’ resurrection. It highlights that His victory over death was not only spiritual but also physical and historical. The empty tomb, guarded by Roman soldiers, becomes an undeniable sign of Jesus’ triumph.

This moment also points to Jesus’ authority over all powers. Even the might of Rome, symbolized by the guards, is no match for the risen Christ. Passages like Matthew 28:18, where Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him, affirm this connection.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

  1. What does the reaction of the guards teach us about the power and majesty of God?
  2. How does this verse challenge you to consider your own response to God’s work in your life?
  3. Why is it significant that even the guards, who were not followers of Jesus, bore witness to the events of the resurrection?
  4. How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s ability to overcome human opposition?
  5. What does the contrast between the guards’ fear and the women’s faith reveal about approaching God?

This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the reality of the resurrection. It challenges believers to respond to His power with awe, trust, and faith, knowing that He is at work in ways that no human force can resist.

Related Videos