Matthew 28:5- “The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, the angel speaks directly to the women who have come to the tomb. The first words, “Do not be afraid,” are meant to calm them. Seeing an angel in all its glory, especially in the context of an earthquake and an empty tomb, would have been terrifying. The angel immediately reassures them, making it clear that his presence is not a threat but a sign of something incredible.
The angel also acknowledges the reason for their visit: they are looking for Jesus, who had been crucified. This recognition shows the angel’s understanding of their grief and devotion. His words prepare them for the amazing news they are about to hear—that Jesus is no longer in the tomb.
Historical Context
The women mentioned here, Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” (Matthew 28:1), were deeply devoted to Jesus and had followed Him during His ministry. They came to the tomb early Sunday morning, likely to mourn and perhaps to finish anointing His body, as was customary (Mark 16:1).
Angels often appear in Scripture during critical moments to deliver messages from God. Their presence typically evokes fear, as they are seen as messengers of divine power. Here, the angel’s message emphasizes God’s compassion by immediately addressing the women’s fear and acknowledging their faithfulness.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the compassion of God. Through the angel, He meets the women in their fear and grief, offering comfort and assurance. The angel’s recognition of Jesus as “the one who was crucified” also emphasizes the reality of Jesus’ death, which sets the stage for the miraculous truth of His resurrection.
The command “Do not be afraid” is significant. Throughout Scripture, this phrase is often used when God is about to reveal something extraordinary or call His people to trust Him. Here, it reflects God’s care and the peace He brings, even in moments of uncertainty and awe.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:5 is a turning point in the resurrection narrative. The angel’s words move the focus from fear to hope, shifting the mood of the scene. The structure of the angel’s message is deliberate, starting with reassurance (“Do not be afraid”), followed by acknowledgment of the women’s intentions, and finally pointing to the deeper truth about Jesus.
The phrase “who was crucified” grounds the resurrection in historical reality. It reminds readers that Jesus truly suffered and died, making the resurrection all the more miraculous.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 2:10: Angels announce Jesus’ birth with the same comforting words, “Do not be afraid,” linking His birth and resurrection as key moments of God’s plan.
- John 20:11-12: Mary Magdalene also encounters angels at the tomb, showing consistency in the resurrection accounts.
- Psalm 34:4: “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears,” echoing the angel’s message of peace.
- Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you,” reflects God’s promise of comfort to His people.
- Matthew 17:9: Jesus instructs His disciples not to be afraid after His transfiguration, preparing them for greater revelations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew 28:5 is a reminder that God meets us in our fear and offers peace. Just as the angel reassured the women, God’s message to believers is one of comfort and hope, even in the face of uncertainty or challenges.
This verse also invites Christians to seek Jesus with faith and devotion, just as the women did. It reminds us that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him with the truth of His presence and His promises.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving nature in His care for the women. He sends an angel not only to deliver the message of the resurrection but also to comfort and reassure them. God’s love is evident in the way He understands and addresses their emotions, showing that He is not distant or indifferent but deeply involved in their lives.
The angel’s message also reveals God’s desire to draw people closer to Him. By calming their fear and acknowledging their faithfulness, God prepares the women to witness the truth of the resurrection and share it with others.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The angel’s acknowledgment of Jesus as “the one who was crucified” points directly to His sacrificial death. This recognition underscores the reality of His suffering, making the resurrection even more significant.
Jesus’ resurrection fulfills His own promises (Matthew 16:21) and demonstrates His victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). The angel’s words pave the way for the revelation that Jesus is alive, confirming His identity as the Savior and the Son of God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the angel’s command to “not be afraid” teach us about God’s care for His people?
- How does this verse encourage us to seek Jesus with faith and devotion?
- Why is it significant that the angel acknowledges Jesus’ crucifixion before announcing His resurrection?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s peace in moments of fear or uncertainty?
- How can this verse inspire us to share the message of Jesus with others, just as the women did later in the passage?
This verse captures the kindness and power of God, preparing us to embrace the reality of the resurrection with faith, hope, and courage. It reminds us that God’s love meets us where we are, bringing comfort and assurance in the most extraordinary moments of life.