Text: Matthew 28:1–20
Theme: Because Jesus Christ is risen, we can live with faith, courage, and purpose.
Introduction
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most powerful event in all of human history. It is the foundation of the Christian faith and the reason believers around the world live with hope today.
In Matthew 28, we see three major moments: the empty tomb, the deceitful plan of the enemies, and the great commission from the risen Christ. Each of these moments reveals a truth about who God is and what He wants to do in our lives.
This chapter is not only a record of what happened — it is an invitation for us to experience the power of the living Christ today.
1. The Empty Tomb: The Triumph of Life Over Death (Matthew 28:1–10)
“He is not here; for He is risen, as He said.” — Matthew 28:6
Early in the morning, after the Sabbath, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the tomb. Their hearts were filled with sorrow and confusion. They had seen Jesus crucified. They thought everything was over.
But when they arrived, something extraordinary happened — the stone was rolled away, and the angel of the Lord announced that Jesus had risen from the dead.
The same Jesus who was crucified in weakness rose again in power. The grave could not hold Him. Death could not defeat Him.
Lessons from the Empty Tomb
God always keeps His promises. Jesus said He would rise again, and He did.
Fear is replaced by faith. The angel said, “Do not be afraid.” When we believe in the risen Christ, fear loses its power.
Joy follows obedience. The women ran to tell the disciples — their sorrow turned into joy as they obeyed.
The resurrection reminds us that no situation is beyond God’s reach. Whatever “tomb” you face — whether it’s pain, loss, or fear — God can roll the stone away.
2. The Deception: The Enemy’s Attempt to Hide the Truth (Matthew 28:11–15)
“They gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, saying, ‘Tell them, His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept.’” — Matthew 28:12–13
Even after the resurrection, there were those who refused to believe. The religious leaders tried to cover up the truth with lies. They bribed the soldiers to spread a false story.
This scene reminds us that truth always faces opposition. The world often tries to silence the message of Jesus. But no lie can erase the truth that He is alive.
The resurrection stands unshaken — not just as a miracle of the past, but as the unchanging truth of God’s power and love.
Lessons from the Opposition
Truth does not need defense — it stands by itself. Lies fade, but truth endures.
Faith requires courage. Even when others deny Christ, we must continue to stand firm in our belief.
God’s plan always prevails. The schemes of man cannot stop the power of God.
In every generation, there are voices that doubt, deny, or distort the truth of Jesus. But those who have met the risen Lord know that He is real — because He lives in their hearts.
3. The Great Commission: The Risen Christ Sends Us (Matthew 28:16–20)
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” — Matthew 28:19
After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples on a mountain in Galilee. There, He gave them a command and a promise.
He began with authority — “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Then He gave His disciples a mission — “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”
This command is not only for the apostles; it is for every believer. We are called to share the message of salvation with others, to teach them, and to help them grow in faith.
Finally, Jesus gave a beautiful promise: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Lessons from the Great Commission
We go in His authority. We don’t serve in our own strength; we serve under His power.
We have a global mission. The gospel is for all people, everywhere.
We are never alone. Jesus is with us every step of the way.
This commission gives purpose to our lives. We are not just called to believe — we are called to live and share the good news that Jesus is alive.
4. Living as People of the Resurrection
Because Jesus lives, everything changes:
Our past is forgiven. The cross paid the price for our sins.
Our present has purpose. We are called to live in His power and serve others.
Our future is secure. Death has lost its sting, and eternal life is ours through Christ.
When we truly believe in the resurrection, it affects how we speak, how we love, and how we hope. It gives meaning to our suffering and courage for our calling.
The empty tomb is not just proof of what God did — it is a promise of what He will continue to do in us.
Conclusion
Matthew 28 begins in sadness but ends in triumph. It starts with a sealed tomb but ends with an open mission.
Jesus Christ, our risen King, is alive forevermore. His resurrection is not the end of the story — it is the beginning of new life for everyone who believes in Him.
Today, let us hold on to that truth:
The grave is empty.
The Savior is alive.
The mission continues.
May our hearts echo the message of the angel:
“He is not here, for He is risen!”
Let us go forth in faith, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ — our risen and victorious Lord.
