Matthew 28:7

And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

Matthew 28:7 (KJV)

Context

The setting of Matthew 28:7 is the morning of Jesus’ resurrection. An earthquake had occurred, and an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolled away the stone from the tomb, and sat upon it. The women who had come to the tomb witnessed this awe-inspiring event and heard the angel’s message.

Meaning

Go quickly

The angel instructs the women to go quickly and share the news of Jesus’ resurrection with the disciples. The urgency in this command emphasizes the importance of spreading the message without delay. The resurrection of Jesus is the central event of Christianity, and the disciples needed to be informed immediately.

He is risen from the dead

This declaration affirms the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. It confirms that Jesus conquered death and rose from the grave, fulfilling the prophecies and promises of Scripture. The resurrection is the pinnacle of the Christian faith, demonstrating Jesus’ victory over sin and offering hope for eternal life to all who believe in Him.

He goeth before you into Galilee

The angel informs the women that Jesus is going ahead of them to Galilee. This is significant because Jesus had previously told His disciples He would meet them there after His resurrection (Matthew 26:32). It reveals Jesus’ intention to reunite with His followers and further instruct them.

There shall ye see him

The angel assures the women that they will have the opportunity to see Jesus in Galilee. This promise offers hope and encouragement, reinforcing the reality of Jesus’ resurrection and His desire to commune with His disciples once again.

Lo, I have told you

The angel concludes by emphasizing that he has delivered this message to the women. This reinforces the angel’s authority and serves as a reminder to the women that they are privileged to be the recipients of this divine revelation. It underscores the importance of their role in sharing this momentous news with others.

Application

Matthew 28:7 calls believers to respond with urgency and obedience to the resurrection message. Just as the women were entrusted with the news, Christians today are called to share the good news of Jesus’ victory over death with confidence and haste. The angel’s words also bring comfort: Jesus goes before His people, and He will meet them as He has promised.