Matthew 28:16
“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.”
This verse is part of the concluding chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, which describes the events that took place after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Let’s delve into the significance of this verse and explore its broader context within the chapter.
The Context:Prior to this verse, the Gospel of Matthew records the resurrection of Jesus, the encounter of the women at the tomb with an angel, and Jesus’ appearance to the women. The angel instructed the women to tell the disciples to go to Galilee, where they would see Jesus. In verse 16, the eleven remaining disciples obediently proceed to Galilee and arrive at the appointed mountain.
The Eleven Disciples:At this point in the narrative, the term “eleven disciples” refers to the group of apostles who had been chosen by Jesus. Initially, there were twelve apostles, but Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus, was no longer with them due to his subsequent death. The eleven disciples were Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas (also known as Thaddaeus or Lebbaeus).
Galilee and the Appointed Mountain:Galilee was the region where Jesus spent a significant portion of His ministry, and it held special importance for His disciples. Jesus had previously told them that He would meet them in Galilee after His resurrection (Matthew 26:32). The appointed mountain mentioned in this verse is not identified specifically but was likely a predetermined location where Jesus intended to meet with His disciples.
Jesus’ Plan and Purpose:The appointment on the mountain in Galilee was significant as it provided an opportunity for Jesus to reunite with His disciples after His resurrection and to commission them for their future ministry. In the following verses (Matthew 28:18-20), commonly known as the Great Commission, Jesus imparts His authority to the disciples and commands them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey His teachings.
Obedience and Faith:The fact that the disciples went away into Galilee and to the appointed mountain demonstrates their obedience and faith in Jesus’ instructions. Despite the turmoil and confusion they experienced during Jesus’ arrest, crucifixion, and burial, they remained faithful and responsive to His call. Their response highlights the trust they had in Jesus’ words and their willingness to follow His commands.
Overall, Matthew 28:16 sets the stage for the pivotal moment when Jesus commissions His disciples to continue His work on earth. It emphasizes the obedience and faith of the remaining disciples and serves as a prelude to the profound mission they were about to embark upon.
