What role does deception play in Matthew 28:15, and how can we avoid it? Setting the Scene Matthew 28:11-15 records the first response to the empty tomb. Instead of bowing to the risen Christ, the religious leaders bribe the guards to spread a cover-story: • Matthew 28:15 — “So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this account has been circulated among the Jews to this very day.” The Anatomy of Deception in Matthew 28:15 • Origin — Fear of losing influence (vv. 11-12). • Method — Bribery: “They gave the soldiers a large sum of money” (v. 12). • Message — A deliberate lie: “His disciples came by night and stole Him away” (v. 13). • Endurance — The false report “has been circulated…to this very day” (v. 15). • Spiritual backdrop — Lies trace back to “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Why This Deception Matters Today • It attempts to erase the cornerstone of the gospel—the bodily resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:14). • It shows how easily truth can be sold for a price (cf. Proverbs 12:19). • It warns that religious authority is not immune to dishonesty (Matthew 23:27-28). • It reminds us that false narratives can outlive their authors (2 Thessalonians 2:10). Recognizing Modern Echoes of the Same Lie • Distracting explanations that naturalize supernatural works of God. • Academic or media claims that Jesus’ resurrection is myth or legend. • Personal rationalizations that downplay sin and avoid repentance. Guardrails Against Deception • Anchor in Scripture – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). – Regular, careful study: “Accurately handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Abide in the Truth-Bearer – Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth” (John 14:6). – Daily fellowship with Christ sharpens discernment. • Cultivate a Truth-Telling Community – “Put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). – Accountability groups and honest friendships expose hidden lies. • Test Every Claim – “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). – Compare teachings, books, podcasts, and sermons with the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11). • Rely on the Spirit’s Illumination – The Spirit “will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). – Prayerfully invite His clarity before forming conclusions. • Guard the Heart Against Greed and Fear – The soldiers’ love of money fueled their lie (1 Timothy 6:10). – The leaders’ fear of public backlash eclipsed their fear of God (Proverbs 29:25). • Embrace Full Obedience – “All Scripture is God-breathed…for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). – Truth isn’t merely believed; it is lived. Consistent obedience dismantles hypocrisy. Living It Out By treasuring God’s word, walking closely with Christ, and practicing honest community, we stand immune to the kind of deception that took root in Matthew 28:15. The empty tomb still speaks; let no counterfeit story steal its voice. |
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