How does Matthew 28:10 encourage us to overcome fear in our lives? Setting the Scene • Resurrection morning finds the women at the tomb, hearts pounding with grief and confusion. • An angel announces Jesus is alive (vv. 5-7), and as they hurry away, Jesus Himself meets them. • His very first words after rising: “Do not be afraid.” (Matthew 28:10) Command and Comfort in One Sentence “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see Me.” • Do not be afraid – a direct, loving prohibition. Fear is not optional; it is something to lay aside. • Go and tell – action replaces paralysis. Obedience moves us from inward trembling to outward mission. • My brothers – relationship removes intimidation. The risen Lord claims us as family. • They will see Me – certainty of a future encounter fuels present courage. Fear Faces the Risen Christ 1. Presence overpowers panic – The women clasped His feet (v. 9); tangible nearness silenced terror. 2. Proof replaces speculation – Empty tomb plus living Lord = unanswerable evidence. Fear thrives on “what if”; faith feeds on “what is.” 3. Purpose eclipses anxiety – A clear assignment (“Go … tell”) pulls attention off self-preservation and onto Kingdom proclamation. 4. Promise dispels dread – “There they will see Me.” When Jesus guarantees future fellowship, present threats shrink. Practical Ways to Walk Fearlessly Today • Recall the Resurrection daily. If death could not hold Him, nothing can ultimately harm you (Romans 8:31-39). • Stay on mission. Share Christ, serve others, obey promptly; fear loses grip when you’re busy obeying. • Lean into family identity. You are “brother” or “sister” to Christ (Hebrews 2:11); loved ones need not live in fright. • Anticipate meeting Jesus. Whether in daily fellowship or final glory (1 Thessalonians 4:17), look forward, not inward. • Speak Scripture aloud. “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3-4) Fear fades when truth is voiced. Other Scriptures that Echo the Call • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you…” • John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you…” • 2 Timothy 1:7 – “God has not given us a spirit of fear…” • Hebrews 13:5-6 – “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid…” Living Matthew 28:10 Today Jesus’ resurrection greeting still speaks: banish fear, embrace mission, rest in family love, and look forward to seeing Him. Every moment you remember the empty tomb, fear loses its voice and courage takes the microphone. |