Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Matthew 28:13 (BSB)
and instructed them: “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“and instructed them: “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’” — Matthew 28:13
Imagine the tension in the air! This verse captures a moment of desperation and fear. People are trying to cover up what they can’t explain: the disappearance of Jesus’ body. It’s like a plot twist in a thriller where the guards, who were supposed to keep watch, are now admitting they were asleep. Can you feel the weight of that? The idea that this huge event, the resurrection, is being dismissed with a flimsy excuse? It’s shocking and reveals the lengths they’ll go to protect their story. You can almost hear the whispers and see the worried faces, can’t you?
The book of Matthew was written by one of Jesus’ disciples, Matthew himself! He was a tax collector, which means he was used to dealing with difficult situations and people. His perspective is unique because he wanted to show that Jesus was the Messiah, fulfilling promises made long ago. By including this detail about the guards, Matthew emphasizes the conflict between belief and skepticism. He wants you to see how some people react when faced with the miraculous. It’s like he’s saying, 'Look, even with all this evidence, some still choose to deny it.'
This was written in a time when the early followers of Jesus faced immense challenges and skepticism. The world was buzzing with stories of miracles and teachings, but there was also a lot of political and religious tension. The Roman Empire was in control, and news traveled slowly. People were grappling with the idea of resurrection and what that meant for their lives. Understanding this context helps you see why the guards’ story was so critical—people were desperate to maintain control over the narrative of what had happened.
This verse matters today because it shows how fear can lead to dishonesty. It’s easy to dismiss things that challenge our beliefs or make us uncomfortable. You might relate to moments when you’ve been tempted to ignore the truth because it’s easier that way. This verse challenges you to confront your own beliefs and the truths in your life. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest truths can be met with the loudest denials. How do you respond when truth doesn’t fit your narrative?
This week, take a moment to reflect on any truths in your life that you might be avoiding or denying. Are there situations where you feel tempted to ignore what’s really happening? Challenge yourself to face those truths head-on, even if it’s uncomfortable. Maybe it’s about a relationship, a job, or even your own beliefs. Write down one thing you’ll commit to being honest about, and share it with someone you trust. It’s a step toward living in authenticity!
This moment is the climax of a dramatic narrative. Earlier in the chapter, Mary Magdalene and another Mary discover that Jesus’ tomb is empty. They’re filled with awe and fear, experiencing a mix of emotions from shock to joy. But then the guards, who witnessed the resurrection, are bribed to spread a false story. This verse shows a deliberate attempt to twist the truth. It highlights the struggle between faith and doubt, truth and deception. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the tone for what comes next in spreading the news of the resurrection—showing how some will fight against the truth, even when faced with undeniable evidence.
What fears or doubts do you have that might be causing you to overlook the truth in your life, just like the guards did?
Keep reading the full Matthew 28:13 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free