Matthew 28 – He Is Risen! The King Lives Forever

Overview

Matthew 28 stands as the glorious climax of the Gospel of Matthew and one of the most triumphant chapters in all of Scripture. It recounts the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the angelic announcement of His victory over death, His appearance to the women and disciples, and the commissioning of His followers to make disciples of all nations. The chapter affirms the authority of Christ, the truth of the resurrection, and the global mission of the Church.

Key events:

The resurrection of Jesus on the first day of the week (vv. 1-10)
The angel’s announcement and command to the women
The guards’ false report, coordinated by the religious leaders (vv. 11-15)
The Great Commission on the mountain in Galilee (vv. 16-20)

Theologically, Matthew 28 is foundational. It confirms Jesus’ divine identity, the reality of bodily resurrection, the inerrant fulfillment of prophecy, and the call to global evangelism under the authority of the risen Christ.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Background

Authorship: Matthew, one of the twelve apostles and a former tax collector, wrote this Gospel under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. His purpose was to present Jesus as the promised Messiah and authoritative King.
Audience: Primarily Jewish Christians, with a view toward helping them understand how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
Setting: The events take place in and near Jerusalem and Galilee, following Jesus’ crucifixion under Roman authority and burial in a sealed tomb.

Literary Structure

Matthew 28 can be divided into three main narrative movements:

The Empty Tomb and the Angelic Witness (vv. 1-10)
The Cover-up Conspiracy (vv. 11-15)
The Great Commission (vv. 16-20)

The chapter is written in a historical narrative style, grounded in literal events that bear eternal theological truth. From a conservative evangelical perspective, the resurrection is not a metaphorical idea but a literal, bodily event that forms the cornerstone of Christian faith (1 Cor. 15:14).

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Doctrinal Point: The bodily resurrection of Jesus is a central tenet of the Christian faith. It validates Jesus’ claims, confirms His victory over sin and death, and guarantees the believer’s future resurrection.
Evangelical Emphasis: The resurrection is not merely symbolic—it is historical and literal. Jesus rose physically from the grave, never to die again (Romans 6:9).
Application: Our hope, preaching, and mission rest upon the certainty of this event. The empty tomb is our assurance that death has been defeated.

2. The Authority of Christ

Doctrinal Point: Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (v. 18).
Evangelical Emphasis: This is not delegated or limited authority—it is comprehensive. It confirms Jesus’ divine status and kingship over all creation.
Application: The mission of the Church proceeds from Christ’s authority. We serve a risen King whose reign is universal.

3. The Mission of the Church (The Great Commission)

Doctrinal Point: The Church is called to make disciples, baptize them, and teach obedience to Christ’s commands (vv. 19-20).
Evangelical Emphasis: Evangelism and discipleship are not optional activities; they are commands. The Church must proclaim the gospel across all nations, rooted in the authority of Scripture.
Application: Local churches must prioritize missions, church planting, and gospel proclamation—trusting Christ’s promise, “I am with you always.”

4. The Reliability of Scripture

Doctrinal Point: Every event in this chapter fulfills what Jesus had previously foretold (see Matthew 16:21; 17:22-23; 20:18-19).
Evangelical Emphasis: The Bible is not only inspired but inerrant and trustworthy. Prophecy and fulfillment affirm its divine origin.
Application: Preaching must be grounded in Scripture’s authority. Our faith stands on the unchanging Word of God.

5. The Deception of the Enemy

Doctrinal Point: The false report of the guards shows that spiritual opposition seeks to suppress the truth of the resurrection.
Evangelical Emphasis: Satan works through lies and religious hypocrisy to deceive. The enemy’s tactics are rooted in distortion and suppression of truth.
Application: Church leaders must remain vigilant, boldly proclaiming the truth even in the face of cultural or religious opposition.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: Matthew 28 (NIV)

Verses 1-4 – The Empty Tomb

“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb…”

Literal Explanation: The resurrection occurred on the first day of the week—Sunday. The presence of the two Marys highlights the faithful witness of women, even in a time when their testimony had limited legal standing.
Doctrinal Insight: This confirms Jesus’ prediction (Matt. 16:21), fulfills prophecy (Psalm 16:10), and marks the dawn of a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Cross-Reference: Mark 16:1-4; Luke 24:1-3; John 20:1
Application: God honors those who seek Him early and faithfully. The resurrection gives hope amid sorrow and loss.

Verses 5-7 – Angelic Declaration

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said…”

Literal Explanation: The angel affirms Jesus’ resurrection in historical and bodily terms. “Come and see” invites verification; “go quickly and tell” charges with mission.
Doctrinal Insight: Christ’s resurrection validates His deity (Romans 1:4) and secures believers’ justification (Romans 4:25).
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 53:10-12; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Application: The gospel is not blind faith but based on revealed, witnessed, and verifiable truth.

Verses 8-10 – Jesus Appears

“Suddenly Jesus met them. ‘Greetings,’ he said…”

Literal Explanation: Jesus physically appears to the women, affirming His bodily resurrection. Their act of worship reveals recognition of His divine authority.
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus’ acceptance of worship affirms His divinity (John 20:28). His command not to be afraid mirrors divine reassurance (Isaiah 41:10).
Application: Jesus meets those who seek Him. Worship and obedience naturally follow real encounters with the risen Lord.

Verses 11-15 – The False Report

“…the soldiers were bribed to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’”

Literal Explanation: The religious leaders orchestrate a cover-up to deny the resurrection. This fulfills Jesus’ warning of continued opposition (Matthew 27:63-64).
Doctrinal Insight: Human efforts to suppress God’s truth are ultimately futile (Psalm 2:1-4). This lie persisted, yet the gospel advanced.
Application: Believers must expect opposition and deception, but remain steadfast, knowing truth will prevail.

Verses 16-17 – Worship and Doubt

“When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.”

Literal Explanation: Even in the presence of the risen Christ, human frailty shows. Doubt is real but not insurmountable.
Doctrinal Insight: Faith is often mixed with weakness. Christ does not rebuke the doubters but commissions them (Jude 22).
Application: God uses imperfect people. Church leaders must minister with both compassion and confidence.

Verses 18-20 – The Great Commission

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”

Literal Explanation: Jesus gives a final command under the banner of universal authority. The call includes going, baptizing, teaching, and obeying.
Doctrinal Insight:
- Authority of Christ: Rooted in His resurrection and divine sonship (Philippians 2:9-11).
- Trinitarian Baptism: The command to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” affirms the unity and distinct persons of the Trinity.
- Mission of the Church: Global and holistic—making disciples, not just converts.
Cross-Reference: Acts 1:8; 2 Timothy 2:2
Application: Every believer is a participant in God’s mission. Church leaders are to train, send, and multiply faithful witnesses.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Matthew 28 places Jesus at the center of redemptive history. It reveals:

Jesus as Victor: He conquered death, fulfilling Genesis 3:15 and defeating the curse of sin.
Jesus as King: His declaration of “all authority” fulfills Daniel 7:13-14. He is the rightful Ruler of heaven and earth.
Jesus as Lord: Worshiped by His followers and declared divine by His actions and resurrection (Romans 10:9).
Jesus as Savior: The resurrected Christ is the assurance of forgiveness, new life, and future resurrection (1 Peter 1:3).
Jesus as Sender: He commissions His followers to continue His redemptive work through disciple-making.

Matthew’s Gospel closes not with Jesus gone, but with Jesus present, promising to be with His people “to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). This eternal presence is only possible because He is the eternal Son.

How Matthew 28 Connects to God the Father

1. The Father’s Power and Sovereignty

The resurrection of Jesus was an act of the Father’s power (Romans 6:4; Ephesians 1:19-20).
It affirms God’s sovereign plan for salvation, announced in Genesis, fulfilled in Christ, and continued through the Church.

2. The Father’s Approval

By raising Jesus, the Father publicly vindicated the Son (Romans 1:4).
The resurrection declares that God the Father accepted the atoning sacrifice of Jesus on behalf of sinners (Hebrews 10:12-14).

3. The Father’s Commission

The Great Commission reflects the Father’s heart for the nations. God has always been a sending God—from Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) to the Church (John 20:21).
Jesus‘ words echo the Father’s mission to restore all things to Himself (Colossians 1:19-20).

4. Trinitarian Relationship

The Trinitarian formula in verse 19 (“in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”) reflects perfect unity and equality within the Godhead.
It affirms the Father’s role in salvation history as the Source and Initiator of redemption.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Though the Holy Spirit is not explicitly mentioned in Matthew 28, His presence and role are deeply implied throughout the chapter and its mission-focused message.

1. The Holy Spirit and the Resurrection

Romans 8:11 declares that the Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in believers. Thus, the resurrection in Matthew 28 is closely tied to the Spirit’s power.
The Spirit vindicates Christ by raising Him in power (cf. 1 Peter 3:18) and ensures His ongoing presence in believers.

2. The Holy Spirit and the Great Commission

The command to “make disciples of all nations” is fulfilled by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). While Jesus commissions, the Spirit empowers.
The phrase “I am with you always” (v. 20) points forward to the indwelling presence of Christ through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18).

3. The Holy Spirit and Baptism

The Trinitarian baptism formula (v. 19) affirms the Spirit’s equal personhood and role in salvation, alongside the Father and the Son.
The Spirit applies regeneration, seals believers (Ephesians 1:13), and sanctifies them to walk in obedience to Christ’s teachings (Galatians 5:22-25).

Sermon Outline and Flow: “Risen and Reigning: The King’s Final Word” (Matthew 28)

Big Idea: Jesus Christ is risen, reigning, and has commissioned His Church with divine authority and presence to proclaim the gospel to all people.

I. The Victory of the Risen King (vv. 1-10)

Transition: Death was not the end—Jesus lives.

Main Point: The resurrection is a historical, bodily, and victorious event.
Support:
- Verified by eyewitnesses (the women)
- Declared by angels
- Fulfilled Scripture (Isaiah 53, Psalm 16)
Application:
- We serve a living Savior. Our faith has a foundation.
- Hope and new life are real because Jesus rose.

Illustration: Like sunrise after the darkest night, resurrection morning reminds us that God’s promises always break through despair.

II. The Deception of the Enemy (vv. 11-15)

Transition: Not everyone wants the truth to spread.

Main Point: Even in the face of truth, many will choose lies.
Support:
- The guards and religious leaders plotted to conceal the resurrection.
- Satan’s tactics include deception, confusion, and bribes.
Application:
- Stand firm in truth despite opposition or ridicule.
- Disciple-making includes confronting falsehood with grace and courage.

Illustration: In a digital age, fake news spreads quickly—how much more should we proclaim the truth of the Risen Lord with clarity and conviction?

III. The Authority and Mission of Jesus (vv. 16-20)

Transition: The King doesn’t just rise—He sends.

Main Point: Jesus commissions His Church with all authority to make disciples everywhere.
Support:
- “All authority” means Christ rules now.
- Making disciples includes evangelizing, baptizing, and teaching.
- His promise: “I am with you always.”
Application:
- Make your life revolve around disciple-making.
- Trust that Christ’s authority and Spirit go with you.

Illustration: Just as a military unit obeys a commander’s orders with precision and urgency, the Church must obey Jesus’ final command with global intent and spiritual intensity.

Conclusion: The Risen King Still Sends

Jesus is not absent—He is present.
He is not buried—He is alive.
He is not silent—He is speaking through His Church.

Call to Action:

Will you go? Will you disciple? Will you trust His power and presence?
Start in your home. Lead your family. Reach your neighbor. Support global missions.
Let the Risen King rule not only history but your daily life.

Scripture to Close:
“Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57

Illustrations and Examples

1. Personal Story – A Morning of Hope

Tell the story of someone who lost a loved one but found comfort and unshakable hope because of the resurrection of Christ. Emphasize how the truth of Matthew 28 offers peace in grief.

2. Analogy – The Sealed Tomb vs. the Open Door

Compare the Roman-sealed tomb to a “locked vault,” representing the world’s attempt to silence God’s power. But God opened it—forever. The resurrection opens the way to life, just as prison doors opened for Peter in Acts 12.

3. Modern Example – Global Missions

Mention a missionary or church planter who obeyed the Great Commission and saw life transformation, reminding listeners that the call to go is still active—and every believer has a role.

4. Relatable Analogy – Authority and Obedience

Use the example of a company CEO giving final instructions before stepping away. The Great Commission isn’t optional. It’s the King’s final word. Just like employees follow corporate directives, disciples must obey Christ’s commands.

Application for Today’s Christian

Matthew 28 calls every believer to live with resurrection hope, kingdom purpose, and obedient discipleship. Here are practical ways to live out the chapter in everyday life:

1. Discipleship: Be and Make Disciples

Personal Growth: Commit to being a disciple—daily studying God’s Word, praying, and obeying Jesus’ commands.
Intentional Relationships: Invest in discipling others—family, church members, neighbors—through mentoring, Bible study, and accountability.
Church Involvement: Support your local church’s teaching and mission ministries. Help cultivate a disciple-making culture.

Practical Step: Begin discipling one person this year—meet regularly, pray together, and walk through Scripture.

2. Stewardship: Use Your Life for the Kingdom

Time: Prioritize what matters eternally. Set aside time for outreach, teaching others, and serving the body of Christ.
Talents: Use your spiritual gifts to support the church’s disciple-making mission—teaching, hospitality, evangelism, or helps.
Treasure: Support missionaries and gospel-centered ministries financially and prayerfully.

Practical Step: Evaluate your calendar and budget through the lens of Matthew 28:18-20. Where are you actively participating in Christ’s mission?

3. Faithful Living: Walk in Resurrection Power

Hope: Because Jesus lives, you can face fear, grief, and suffering with confidence and peace.
Obedience: Jesus didn’t just say “go”—He said “teach them to obey.” Apply His Word in all areas: relationships, work, morality, and speech.
Witness: Boldly share your faith, trusting that Jesus is with you and His Spirit will empower you.

Practical Step: This week, share the resurrection story with someone—tell them how Jesus changed your life.

Connection to God’s Love

Matthew 28 powerfully reveals the depth of God’s love and His redemptive plan for humanity:

1. Love Shown in the Resurrection

The resurrection is not just a demonstration of God’s power—it is a declaration of His love. Jesus endured death for us and rose again so we could have eternal life (John 3:16).
God didn’t leave Jesus in the grave, and He will not leave His people in their sin or sorrow (Romans 8:32).

“He is not here; He has risen!” (v. 6) is the cry of divine love triumphing over sin and death.

2. Love Shown in the Commission

Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations reflects God’s heart for the world. His love is not limited by ethnicity, geography, or past sin.
The mission is God’s invitation to participate in His love story—to be instruments of grace, truth, and reconciliation.

3. Love Shown in His Presence

Jesus promises, “Surely I am with you always” (v. 20). This promise is rooted in divine love. We are never alone.
God’s love is not distant or theoretical—it is personal, present, and persevering.

Romans 8:38-39: “Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Broader Biblical Themes

Matthew 28 contributes to and fulfills major biblical themes that run from Genesis to Revelation.

1. Creation and New Life

Just as God brought life from dust in Genesis, so He brings eternal life from the grave in Matthew 28.
The resurrection marks the new creation—Jesus is the “firstborn from the dead” (Colossians 1:18), ushering in the new humanity.

2. Redemption and Atonement

Jesus’ resurrection proves that the payment for sin was accepted by the Father (Romans 4:25).
This is the fulfillment of redemption begun in Genesis 3:15, where the Seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head.
It also echoes Exodus—the deliverance from death and bondage, but now a greater Exodus from sin and hell.

3. Covenant and Kingdom

The Great Commission is the outworking of God’s covenant with Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3). Now, the blessing of salvation through Jesus is to go to the ends of the earth.
Jesus’ declaration of “all authority” fulfills Old Testament kingdom prophecies (Daniel 7:13-14) and establishes Him as the reigning King.

4. Presence of God

In the Garden of Eden, man walked with God—but sin broke that fellowship.
Through Jesus, the presence of God is restored. “I am with you always” (v. 20) recalls the name Immanuel (God with us), fulfilling Matthew 1:23.
This presence continues through the indwelling Holy Spirit and looks forward to the day when God will dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:3).

Reflection Questions: Matthew 28

Section 1: The Resurrection of Jesus (vv. 1-10)

How does the reality of Jesus’ resurrection shape your hope in the face of fear, death, or suffering?
What does the angel’s phrase “just as He said” teach us about trusting God’s Word?
How can you respond more faithfully to Jesus with worship like the women did?

Section 2: Opposition to the Truth (vv. 11-15)

Why do you think people still try to deny or distort the truth of the resurrection today?
In what ways have you experienced pressure to compromise the truth of the gospel?
How can you graciously defend the resurrection when sharing your faith with others?

Section 3: The Great Commission (vv. 16-20)

What does Jesus’ statement “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” mean for your daily life and choices?
Are you currently making disciples? If not, what is holding you back?
What practical steps can you take this week to obey the command to “go and make disciples”?

Personal Walk and Faith

Do you believe that Jesus is truly with you always? How should that impact your courage and confidence?
What part of Jesus’ teaching do you find most challenging to obey—and how can you grow in that area?
How has Matthew 28 renewed your understanding of your role in God’s plan?

Group and Church Application

How can your small group or local church work together more effectively to fulfill the Great Commission?
What does it look like for a local church to teach people to obey everything Christ commanded?
How does the resurrection shape the way your church handles mission, discipleship, and worship?