Matthew 28:9 - Verse Explanation
Verse Spotlight
Imagine a scene where you’re filled with a mix of joy and disbelief. Jesus has just risen from the dead, and there He is, standing right in front of you! He meets you with a warm 'Greetings!' as if you’re catching up with an old friend. You rush to Him, falling at His feet, overwhelmed. This moment is electric! It’s not just a casual hello; it’s a profound encounter that shakes the very core of your being. You're not just seeing Him; you’re worshiping Him, realizing that this is the one who changed everything. Your heart is racing because this is the ultimate moment of connection and reverence.
Who Wrote It
This account comes from Matthew, one of Jesus’s closest followers. Matthew was a tax collector turned disciple, which means he knew what it felt like to be an outsider. He wrote this book to share the story of Jesus with everyone, especially those who might feel lost or unworthy. By including this specific moment of worship, Matthew highlights the importance of recognizing who Jesus is and the impact of His resurrection. It’s like he’s saying, 'This is it! This is the turning point you need to understand!' His unique perspective helps capture the awe and significance of this encounter.
What It Means
Imagine a scene where you’re filled with a mix of joy and disbelief. Jesus has just risen from the dead, and there He is, standing right in front of you! He meets you with a warm 'Greetings!' as if you’re catching up with an old friend. You rush to Him, falling at His feet, overwhelmed. This moment is electric! It’s not just a casual hello; it’s a profound encounter that shakes the very core of your being. You're not just seeing Him; you’re worshiping Him, realizing that this is the one who changed everything. Your heart is racing because this is the ultimate moment of connection and reverence.
Where and When
Now, let’s set the stage. This event takes place in first-century Judea, a time when people were grappling with oppression and uncertainty. The Jewish people were under Roman rule, and they were eagerly waiting for a savior. The backdrop of this moment is heavy with hope and fear. For the followers of Jesus, His death had plunged them into despair, but now, with His resurrection, everything changes. The world is buzzing with rumors and excitement, and this encounter is like a ripple effect that starts to change the entire landscape of their lives and faith.
Why It Matters
So why does this verse matter to you today? It’s a powerful reminder that even in your moments of doubt and confusion, Jesus meets you right where you are. He’s not distant or unapproachable; He’s inviting you into a relationship. When you come to Him, you’re not just acknowledging Him—you’re experiencing His love and presence in a way that can transform your life. This verse speaks to the deepest parts of your heart, encouraging you to recognize the power of worship and connection. It’s about hope rising from despair and finding peace in the chaos of life.
How to Apply
Here’s how you can live out this verse this week: Take a moment to reflect on your own relationship with Jesus. Find a quiet space, maybe while walking or sitting in a park, and just talk to Him. Share your joys, fears, and questions. Then, spend some time in worship—whether that’s listening to music that inspires you, reading something uplifting, or even just expressing gratitude. Just like those women reached for His feet in worship, you can reach out to Him in your own way. It’s about connection, not perfection. Let this be a time to deepen that relationship.
Chapter Context
Let's zoom out a bit. Just before this moment, the women had gone to the tomb where Jesus was buried, only to find it empty. Imagine their shock and confusion! An angel had told them that Jesus had risen, and now, as they’re leaving, they encounter Him. This is the climax of the chapter, where everything shifts—Jesus’s resurrection isn’t just a story; it’s the fulfillment of His promise. This moment of worship signifies that He’s not just back; He’s alive and ready to change lives. It’s a pivot point that transforms despair into hope, fear into joy, and death into life. Right after this, He gives them a mission—Go and tell others! This is where the movement of His followers begins to spread like wildfire.