Chapter 28 of the Gospel of Matthew proclaims the glorious resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This fundamental passage of Scripture ends in triumph, revealing victory over death and sin. It recounts the women's discovery of the empty tomb, the appearance of the risen Christ, and the great commission entrusted to the disciples.
The resurrection of Jesus validates all his claims and vindicates our Christian faith. The command to make disciples of all nations establishes the ongoing mission of the Church, a call that resonates through the ages. This climactic chapter offers hope and purpose to all of Christ's followers, inviting them to carry the light of his resurrection into the world.
Let's explore together five Bible passages that align with the victorious themes of this transformative chapter:
"He was buried and rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures, and appeared to Peter and then to the Twelve. After this, he appeared to more than 500 brothers at once, most of whom are still alive, though some have already fallen asleep." »
In this passage, Paul summarizes the events of Jesus' resurrection and subsequent appearances, which begin to be recounted in Matthew 28.
“At dusk on the first day of the week, while the disciples were gathered behind locked doors for fear of the Jews, Jesus came in and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’” »
This verse describes one of Jesus' appearances after his resurrection, completing the account in Matthew 28 and bringing comfort to his disciples.
"After his suffering, Jesus appeared to them and gave them many compelling proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them for forty days, speaking about the kingdom of God. »
Luke provides additional details about Jesus' appearances after his resurrection, expanding on the account in Matthew 28 and affirming the reality of his newfound life.
"And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all peoples. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.' »
This exhortation parallels the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, emphasizing the importance of sharing the gospel with everyone.
“He exercised this power in Christ, raising him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in our time but also in the one to come. God has put all things under his feet and appointed him head over all things for the church. »
Here Paul develops the theological significance of the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus, events recounted in Matthew 28, thus affirming his supreme authority over all creation.
May these passages nourish our faith and inspire us in our mission to bear witness to the resurrection of Christ, the source of our hope and our salvation.