Matthew 28:6- “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse contains the heart of the Christian faith: the announcement that Jesus Christ has risen from the dead. The angel tells the women that Jesus is no longer in the tomb because He has conquered death, fulfilling His own promises. The phrase “just as he said” points to Jesus’ earlier predictions about His resurrection (Matthew 16:21, 17:23).
The angel’s invitation to “come and see” is an act of reassurance, allowing the women to witness firsthand that the tomb is empty. This serves as both evidence of Jesus’ resurrection and a call to believe in the truth of what has happened. The empty tomb is the proof that death has been defeated and that Jesus is who He claimed to be.
Historical Context
In the first century, Jewish burial customs included wrapping the body in cloth and placing it in a tomb carved out of rock. A large stone would seal the entrance, making it difficult to open. After Jesus’ burial, Roman guards were stationed at the tomb to prevent tampering (Matthew 27:62-66).
The resurrection occurred early on the first day of the week (Sunday), making it a defining moment in history. Women, including Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary,” were the first to hear the news of Jesus’ resurrection, a remarkable detail given that women’s testimonies were often not considered credible in that culture. God’s choice to reveal this news to women highlights His inclusiveness and the unexpected nature of His ways.
Theological Implications
This verse proclaims the victory of Jesus over sin, death, and the grave. The resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope and salvation. It proves that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was accepted by God and that He has power over death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
The words “just as he said” affirm the reliability of Jesus’ teachings and the promises of God. If Jesus kept His promise to rise again, believers can trust that all His other promises will also be fulfilled.
The angel’s invitation to “come and see” reminds us that faith is not blind but based on evidence. Christianity invites investigation, and the resurrection is central to its claims.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 28:6 is concise yet rich in meaning. The angel’s words are both declarative and invitational. The phrase “He is not here” contrasts the finality of death with the new reality of life through the resurrection.
The repetition of “just as he said” reinforces Jesus’ faithfulness and the fulfillment of prophecy. The invitation to “come and see” is both literal and symbolic, encouraging the women—and all readers—to examine the truth of the resurrection and respond with faith.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 16:21: Jesus predicts His death and resurrection, fulfilling His promise in this verse.
- Luke 24:5-6: Similar words from angels, reminding the women that Jesus had foretold His resurrection.
- John 11:25-26: Jesus declares Himself the resurrection and the life, a truth confirmed by His rising.
- 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: Paul explains the resurrection of Jesus as the firstfruits of those who will rise.
- Psalm 16:10: A prophecy that God would not let His Holy One see decay, fulfilled in Jesus’ resurrection.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers, this verse is a source of hope and joy. It reminds us that Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation of our faith and the guarantee of eternal life. Just as the angel invited the women to see the empty tomb, we are invited to trust in the reality of Jesus’ victory over death.
This verse also challenges Christians to live in the power of the resurrection. Because Jesus has risen, we can have confidence in God’s promises, strength to face challenges, and assurance of life beyond the grave.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The resurrection demonstrates God’s love in action. By raising Jesus from the dead, God shows His desire to save humanity and restore the broken relationship caused by sin. The empty tomb is proof that God’s love is stronger than death and that He is committed to offering new life to all who believe in Him.
The angel’s message reflects God’s kindness in ensuring the truth of the resurrection is made known. He doesn’t leave the women—or us—in confusion or despair but provides clear evidence of His power and love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 28:6 directly points to Jesus as the risen Savior. His resurrection confirms His divinity, His role as the Messiah, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. It also validates His claims about Himself, such as when He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).
Through His resurrection, Jesus conquers death, ensuring eternal life for all who trust in Him. His victory is not just personal but shared with all believers, as Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 15:21-22: “For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the resurrection of Jesus bring hope to your life today?
- Why is it significant that the angel reminds the women that Jesus rose “just as he said”?
- What does the empty tomb reveal about God’s power and faithfulness?
- How can you live in the reality of Jesus’ resurrection in your daily life?
- How does the invitation to “come and see” challenge you to explore your faith more deeply?
This verse is the turning point of the Gospel message. It proclaims the victory of life over death, truth over despair, and hope over fear. It invites all who hear it to respond with faith, trust, and joy in the risen Jesus.