Bible Text: Matthew 28:1–20
Theme: Jesus Christ’s resurrection brings hope, authority, and a divine mission to all believers.
Introduction
Matthew 28 is one of the most powerful chapters in the entire Bible. It tells the story of the resurrection — the moment that changed human history forever. After the sorrow of the cross, we see the victory of the empty tomb.
This chapter reminds us that Jesus Christ is not dead; He is alive! His resurrection gives us faith when we feel weak, peace when we are afraid, and purpose when life feels uncertain.
The resurrection is not just a story from the past — it is the foundation of our hope today.
1. The Empty Tomb: God’s Victory Over Death (Matthew 28:1–10)
“He is not here; for He is risen, as He said.” — Matthew 28:6
Early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the tomb, expecting to see a sealed grave. But instead, they saw the power of God in action. The stone was rolled away, and the angel of the Lord declared the greatest news in history — “He is risen.”
Key Lessons:
The stone was rolled away not for Jesus to come out, but for us to see inside and believe.
The guards trembled in fear, but the women received joy and peace.
The resurrection shows that no situation is too hopeless for God.
When we face our own “tombs” — moments of loss, failure, or fear — we can remember that Jesus is alive and His power is greater than any darkness.
2. The Opposition: The World’s Attempt to Hide the Truth (Matthew 28:11–15)
“They gave a large sum of money to the soldiers…” — Matthew 28:12
Even after the miracle of the resurrection, some tried to deny it. The religious leaders bribed the guards to spread a false story that Jesus’ body had been stolen.
This reminds us that the truth of God often faces opposition. Yet no lie, no money, and no human plan can stop the truth from shining. The resurrection is a fact that has changed the world forever.
Key Lessons:
The truth of Jesus will always stand, even when people try to silence it.
Our faith must remain firm, even in a world that doubts.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live as witnesses of His truth.
3. The Great Commission: Our Purpose as Believers (Matthew 28:16–20)
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19
Before ascending to heaven, Jesus met His disciples and gave them a mission — to go into all the world and make disciples. He reminded them that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.”
This means we do not serve in our own power but in His. Jesus gives us both the mission and the strength to complete it.
Our Mission Today:
Go: Share the message of Jesus wherever we are.
Make Disciples: Help others grow in faith and knowledge of God.
Teach: Lead people to live by God’s truth and love.
Trust His Presence: Jesus promised, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
This promise means we are never alone. His Spirit guides, comforts, and empowers us every day.
Living in the Power of the Resurrection
Because Jesus is alive:
We can live with hope, knowing that death is not the end.
We can walk in victory, trusting in God’s promises.
We can serve with purpose, bringing light to a world in need.
The resurrection is not just a moment in history — it is a daily reality that changes how we live, love, and believe.
Conclusion
Matthew 28 begins with fear and ends with faith. It starts at a tomb but ends with a mission. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate proof that God’s love conquers all.
Today, we are invited to live as resurrection people — filled with hope, joy, and courage. No matter what challenges we face, we can declare with confidence:
“He is not here, for He is risen!”
Let us go forward sharing that good news with the world — because the story of the empty tomb is still changing lives today.
