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Welcome to the final day of our 14-day journey through “Matthew’s Message: Unveiling the Truths of Jesus’ Ministry.” Today, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 28 and reflect on the Great Commission. The resurrection marks the victory over death and sin, and the Great Commission entrusts us with the mission to share this glorious news with the world.
The Resurrection:
- The Empty Tomb:
- Matthew 28:1-7 – After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary go to the tomb. There is a violent earthquake, and an angel of the Lord descends from heaven, rolls back the stone, and sits on it. The angel’s appearance is like lightning, and his clothes are white as snow. The guards are so afraid that they shake and become like dead men.
- The angel speaks to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
- The empty tomb and the angel’s message confirm that Jesus has risen from the dead, fulfilling His promise and demonstrating His power over death.
- Jesus Appears to the Women:
- Matthew 28:8-10 – The women hurry away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and run to tell the disciples. Suddenly, Jesus meets them and says, “Greetings.” They come to Him, clasp His feet, and worship Him. Jesus says, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
- Jesus’ appearance to the women highlights His personal and compassionate nature. He reassures them and commissions them to share the good news with the disciples.
The Great Commission:
- Jesus’ Authority:
- Matthew 28:16-18 – The eleven disciples go to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they see Him, they worship Him, but some doubt. Jesus comes to them and says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
- Jesus’ resurrection affirms His authority over all creation. He is the risen Lord, and His authority underpins the Great Commission.
- The Commission:
- Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
- Jesus commissions His disciples to make disciples of all nations, emphasizing the global scope of the gospel. This mission involves baptizing believers and teaching them to obey His commands. Jesus promises His presence and support as they carry out this mission.
Reflection and Application:
The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, affirming His victory over sin and death. The Great Commission calls us to share this transformative message with the world. Reflect on the following questions:
- How does the reality of Jesus’ resurrection impact your daily life and faith?
- In what ways can you participate in the Great Commission, sharing the gospel and making disciples in your community and beyond?
- How can you rely on Jesus’ promise of His presence and support as you fulfill His mission?
Practical Steps to Embrace the Great Commission:
- Share Your Faith: Look for opportunities to share the gospel with others, both through words and actions.
- Disciple Others: Invest in the spiritual growth of others, teaching them to follow Jesus and obey His commands.
- Support Missions: Engage in and support mission work locally and globally, whether through prayer, financial contributions, or personal involvement.
- Live Out Your Faith: Demonstrate the transformative power of the resurrection in your daily life, living as a witness to Jesus’ love and grace.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the victory of the resurrection and the hope it brings. Empower us to fulfill the Great Commission, sharing the good news and making disciples of all nations. Help us to rely on Your presence and authority as we carry out Your mission. May our lives reflect the joy and power of the resurrection, drawing others to You. Amen.
Thank you for joining me on this 14-day journey through “Matthew’s Message: Unveiling the Truths of Jesus’ Ministry.” I hope this series has deepened your faith and understanding of Jesus’ life, teachings, and mission. Let’s continue to grow in our walk with Christ and share His love with the world.
Feel free to share your final thoughts, reflections, and questions in the comments below. Let’s stay connected and continue this journey together, seeking to grow in our faith and understanding of our Savior.
Stay blessed, Dustin Royer