The Gospel of Matthew is replete with rich theological narratives and significant characters, none more intriguing than the angel of the Lord depicted in Matthew 28. This figure appears at a pivotal moment in Christian history—announcing the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Understanding the identity, role, and significance of the angel of the Lord in this chapter is crucial for interpreting the resurrection event and its implications for Christian theology.
Who is the Angel of the Lord?
In Matthew 28:2-7, the angel of the Lord plays a crucial role in the resurrection story. The passage describes the angel descending from heaven, rolling back the stone from the tomb’s entrance, and sitting on it. This angelic visitation is marked by an earthquake and a countenance “like lightning,” with clothing “as white as snow,” causing the guards to tremble and become “like dead men” (Matthew 28:3-4).
The term “angel of the Lord” (Greek: ἄγγελος Κυρίου, angelos Kyriou) appears several times in the Old and New Testaments, often signifying a divine messenger with a special commission. In the Old Testament, the angel of the Lord is sometimes seen as a theophany—a manifestation of God Himself, as in the encounters with Hagar (Genesis 16:7-13), Moses (Exodus 3:2), and Gideon (Judges 6:11-24). However, in the New Testament context, especially in Matthew 28, the angel is more clearly distinguished as a heavenly being sent by God rather than a direct manifestation of God.
The Angel’s Appearance and Its Symbolism
The angel’s dramatic entrance and appearance in Matthew 28 are rich with symbolic meaning. The earthquake accompanying the angel’s descent is reminiscent of Old Testament theophanies, such as the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18), signifying a divine intervention in human affairs. This earthquake not only marks the angel’s arrival but also symbolizes the seismic shift in salvation history—the resurrection of Jesus, which is the foundation of Christian faith.
The angel’s appearance, described as having a face like lightning and garments white as snow, signifies purity, holiness, and divine glory. This imagery aligns with other biblical descriptions of heavenly beings (e.g., Daniel 10:6; Revelation 1:14). The whiteness of the angel’s clothing symbolizes righteousness and the victory of life over death, reinforcing the message of resurrection.
See Also: How Many Angels Are Mentioned in the Bible?
The Role of the Angel in the Resurrection Narrative
The angel’s primary role in Matthew 28 is to announce the resurrection of Jesus and to commission the women to share this news with the disciples. The angelic message is succinct and profound: “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” (Matthew 28:5-7).
This announcement serves multiple purposes:
1. Reassurance and Comfort: The angel begins with “Do not be afraid,” acknowledging the women’s fear and providing immediate comfort. This reassurance is vital, given the traumatic events of the crucifixion and the startling encounter with the angel.
2. Proclamation of the Resurrection: The angel confirms that Jesus, who was crucified, has risen. This declaration validates Jesus’ predictions about his death and resurrection (Matthew 16:21, 17:22-23, 20:18-19) and serves as the cornerstone of Christian faith.
3. Invitation to Witness: By inviting the women to “come and see the place where he lay,” the angel provides tangible evidence of the resurrection, transforming the women’s role from mourners to witnesses.
4. Commissioning to Evangelize: The angel instructs the women to “go quickly and tell his disciples,” thus commissioning them as the first evangelists of the resurrection. This directive underscores the importance of witness and proclamation in the Christian mission.
Theological Implications of the Angel’s Message
The angel’s message in Matthew 28 has profound theological implications. It not only confirms the resurrection but also fulfills Jesus’ promises and prophecies, demonstrating the faithfulness and power of God. The resurrection is the validation of Jesus’ divine identity and the inauguration of the new covenant, offering hope and eternal life to believers.
The commissioning of the women to share the resurrection news also has significant implications for the role of women in the early Christian community. Despite the cultural norms of the time, the angel entrusts the women with the critical task of announcing the resurrection to the disciples, highlighting the inclusivity and transformative nature of the gospel.
Comparison with Other Resurrection Accounts
While the angelic announcement is a common element in the resurrection narratives across the Gospels, each account has its unique features. In Mark 16:1-8, a young man in a white robe delivers the resurrection message. In Luke 24:1-7, two men in dazzling apparel appear, while in John 20:1-12, Mary Magdalene sees two angels in white. These variations highlight different aspects of the resurrection event and the divine revelation associated with it.
Matthew’s account, with its dramatic portrayal of the angel and the accompanying earthquake, emphasizes the cosmic significance of the resurrection. The angel’s authoritative presence and clear instructions to the women reinforce the certainty and urgency of the resurrection message.
Conclusion
The angel of the Lord in Matthew 28 is a central figure in the resurrection narrative, serving as a divine herald who announces the most significant event in Christian history. Through the angel’s appearance, message, and commissioning of the women, the Gospel of Matthew underscores the reality of the resurrection and its transformative impact on the world.
The angel’s role in this passage highlights the intersection of divine intervention and human witness, demonstrating how God uses heavenly messengers to convey His truth and empower His followers. The angel’s message of “He is not here; he has risen” continues to resonate through the ages, affirming the hope and promise of new life in Christ for all believers.