Easter stands as the cornerstone of Christian faith, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. The Gospel of Matthew provides a profound account of these events, offering insights into the significance of the resurrection. This article explores ten pivotal scriptures from Matthew, each presented as an independent paragraph with detailed introductions, to illuminate the depth and meaning of Easter.
10 Easter Scriptures from the Gospel of Matthew
1. Matthew 26:28 – The Blood of the Covenant
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
During the Last Supper, Jesus introduces the concept of the new covenant through His blood. This moment signifies the impending sacrifice He would make for humanity’s redemption. The reference to His blood being poured out connects directly to the crucifixion, where His death would serve as atonement for sin. This scripture sets the stage for the events of Good Friday and underscores the sacrificial love that defines Easter.
2. Matthew 27:50 – Jesus’ Death
“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.”
This verse marks the moment of Jesus’ death on the cross. His voluntary surrender of life demonstrates His obedience to the Father’s will and His role as the sacrificial Lamb. The crucifixion is central to the Easter narrative, as it precedes the resurrection and fulfills the prophecies concerning the Messiah’s suffering.
3. Matthew 27:51 – The Temple Curtain Torn
“At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split.”
The tearing of the temple curtain symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. Through Jesus’ death, believers gain direct access to God, no longer requiring an intermediary. The accompanying earthquake and splitting rocks signify the profound impact of this event on both the physical and spiritual realms.
4. Matthew 27:54 – The Centurion’s Declaration
“When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, ‘Surely he was the Son of God!’”
A Roman centurion, witnessing the supernatural events surrounding Jesus’ death, acknowledges His divine nature. This confession from a Gentile soldier highlights the universal significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the recognition of His identity beyond the Jewish community.
5. Matthew 28:1 – The Women Visit the Tomb
“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.”
The dedication of these women, visiting Jesus’ tomb at the earliest opportunity, reflects their deep devotion. Their role as the first witnesses to the resurrection emphasizes the importance of women in the early Christian movement and the unfolding of the Easter story.
6. Matthew 28:2 – The Earthquake and the Angel
“There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.”
The earthquake and the angel’s descent signify divine intervention. The angel’s act of rolling back the stone is not to let Jesus out, but to reveal to the world that He has risen. This dramatic event underscores the power of God and the miraculous nature of the resurrection.
7. Matthew 28:5 – The Angel’s Message
“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.’”
The angel addresses the women’s fear and acknowledges their search for Jesus. This reassurance sets the tone for the revelation of the resurrection, emphasizing that their faith and devotion are about to be rewarded with the most significant news in Christian history.
8. Matthew 28:6 – He Has Risen
“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
This proclamation confirms the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy about His resurrection. The invitation to see the empty tomb serves as tangible evidence of His victory over death. This verse encapsulates the essence of Easter, celebrating the risen Christ and the hope He brings.
9. Matthew 28:7 – The Commission to the Disciples
“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 angel commissions the women to share the news of the resurrection with the disciples. This directive initiates the spread of the Gospel, highlighting the role of believers in proclaiming the risen Christ. The mention of Galilee points to the continuation of Jesus’ ministry and the restoration of His followers.
10. Matthew 28:18-20 – The Great Commission
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.’”
In His final instructions, the resurrected Jesus empowers His disciples to spread His teachings globally. This Great Commission underscores the universal scope of the Gospel and the enduring presence of Christ with His followers. It serves as a call to action, rooted in the reality of the resurrection.
Conclusion
The Gospel of Matthew offers a comprehensive and profound account of the events surrounding Easter. From the Last Supper to the Great Commission, each scripture contributes to the rich tapestry of the resurrection narrative. These passages not only recount historical events but also convey theological truths that continue to inspire and guide believers today.
You Might Be Interested In:
