Connect Matthew 28:13 with Exodus 20:16 about bearing false witness. Setting the Scene in Matthew 28:13 “telling them, ‘You are to say, “His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.”’ ” The Ninth Commandment—Exodus 20:16 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” A Straight Line Between the Two Texts - The chief priests bribe the guards, crafting a story that directly violates the ninth commandment. - A deliberate, pre-meditated falsehood is employed to suppress the eyewitness truth of the Resurrection. - The same human impulse that shaped the golden calf narrative in Exodus 32—distorting reality to suit fear and self-interest—resurfaces at the empty tomb. The Cost of a Lie - It attempts to obscure the greatest act of God’s redemption since the Exodus itself (Matthew 28:11-15). - It hardens hearts and perpetuates unbelief among the people (John 12:37-40). - It aligns the conspirators with “the father of lies” (John 8:44), not with the God who cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Christ’s Victory Over Deception - The tomb remains empty, the risen Lord appears to many witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:3-8), and the lie collapses under the weight of truth. - Truth wins because Jesus is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). - Even the failed attempt to cover up the Resurrection fulfills prophecy: “The kings of the earth take their stand… but the One enthroned in heaven laughs” (Psalm 2:2-4). Living Out the Ninth Commandment Today - Speak truth even when it is costly (Ephesians 4:25). - Refuse to promote or share unverified stories that discredit others. - Let the character of God—“truthful and without injustice” (Deuteronomy 32:4)—shape every conversation, post, and report. - Remember that “all liars… will have their place in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur” (Revelation 21:8), but those who “walk in the light” have fellowship with God and one another (1 John 1:7). Encouraged Alignment with Truth - The empty tomb calls every believer to reflect the integrity of the risen Savior. - Guarded tongues and honest testimony honor the God who broke open the grave and exposed every lie. |
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