How does the angel's message in Matthew 28:7 strengthen our faith in Christ? The Scene at the Tomb - “He has risen from the dead…” (Matthew 28:7) - An empty tomb witnessed by devout women confirms the bodily resurrection—just as Jesus foretold (Matthew 16:21). - The angel speaks with divine authority; his words are God’s words, fully trustworthy. Four Faith-Building Truths in the Angel’s Message 1. Validation of Jesus’ Claims • Resurrection proves Christ is exactly who He said—Son of God, Lord, Savior (Romans 1:4). • Every promise He made stands confirmed (John 2:19–22). 2. Fulfilled Prophecy, Reliable Scripture • Jesus predicted His rising on the third day (Matthew 17:22-23). • Old-Testament foreshadowing—“After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up” (Hosea 6:2). • Seeing prophecy realized undergirds confidence that all Scripture is accurate, literal, unbreakable (John 10:35). 3. Ongoing Presence and Guidance • “He is going ahead of you into Galilee”—Christ is alive and actively leading His followers (Hebrews 13:8). • Faith is strengthened by knowing we are never abandoned; the risen Lord directs our steps (Matthew 28:20). 4. Invitation to Witness and Share • “Go quickly and tell His disciples”—believers are drafted into God’s redemptive plan (Acts 1:8). • Testifying to a living Savior deepens our own assurance (Philemon 6). Why “Galilee” Matters - Symbol of restored fellowship: same region where many first met Jesus (Matthew 4:19). - Demonstrates continuity between earthly ministry and post-resurrection mission. - Faith grows as we realize Christ leads us back to service, not into hiding. Immediate Proof in a Tangible Meeting - “There you will see Him.” Faith is not blind; God supplies evidence (1 John 1:1-3). - The disciples’ later encounters—touching His wounds, eating with Him (Luke 24:39-43)—anchor our belief in a physical resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Ripple Effects for Today - Because He lives, sin is paid for, death is defeated (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). - Our future resurrection is guaranteed (1 Thessalonians 4:14). - Daily confidence: the same power that raised Jesus works in us now (Ephesians 1:19-20). Living Out the Angel’s Message - Trust Scripture without reservation—it proves true in the most impossible event. - Follow Christ’s leading, expecting His presence ahead of you. - Speak boldly of the risen Lord; each testimony reinforces your own heart. |
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