Matthew 28:12

And when they were assembled with the Elders, and had taken counsell, they gaue large money vnto the souldiers, Matthew 28:12 (KJV)

Context: This verse is part of the narrative in Matthew’s Gospel that describes the events following Jesus’ resurrection. To better understand the significance of Matthew 28:12, it’s helpful to explore the broader context of the passage.

In Matthew 28:1-11, the chapter begins with the account of the two Marys (Mary Magdalene and the other Mary) visiting the tomb where Jesus was buried. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord descends from heaven, rolls back the stone from the entrance of the tomb, and sits upon it. The guards stationed there become frightened and paralyzed. The angel speaks to the women, assuring them that Jesus has risen from the dead, just as He had said, and instructs them to go and tell the disciples that Jesus will meet them in Galilee. Filled with fear and joy, the women quickly leave the tomb to carry out the angel’s command.

Verse 11 mentions that some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests what had happened. This leads us to Matthew 28:12, which states that when the chief priests and the elders were assembled and had taken counsel, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers.

The chief priests, along with the elders, gathered together and held a council to discuss the matter. They were not followers of Jesus but opponents who had played a role in His arrest and crucifixion. Recognizing the implications of the guards’ testimony, the religious leaders sought to suppress the news of the resurrection because its spread would lend credibility to Jesus’ claim as the Messiah and undermine their authority.

To prevent the guards from sharing their encounter, the chief priests and elders decided to bribe them with a large sum of money, hoping to persuade the soldiers to keep silent about the resurrection and to spread a different narrative if questioned by others. It is important to note that the chief priests and elders’ actions reflect their desire to protect their own interests and maintain the status quo.

Their response contrasts sharply with the faith and joy displayed by the women who had encountered the risen Christ. In summary, Matthew 28:12 reveals the corrupt actions of the religious leaders who sought to suppress the news of Jesus’ resurrection by bribing the guards who had witnessed the angel and the empty tomb. This verse highlights the opposition Jesus faced even after His resurrection and provides further evidence of the remarkable nature of His resurrection.