After the Sabbath
The Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, was a day of rest and worship for the Jewish people, as commanded in Exodus 20:8-11. This phrase indicates that the events described occur immediately following the Sabbath, highlighting the transition from rest to the activity of the resurrection morning. The timing underscores the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy that He would rise on the third day (Matthew 16:21).

At dawn on the first day of the week
The first day of the week, Sunday, marks a significant shift in Christian worship from the Jewish Sabbath to the Lord's Day, commemorating Jesus' resurrection. This timing fulfills the typology of Jesus as the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20), aligning with the Feast of Firstfruits, which occurs on the day after the Sabbath during Passover week (Leviticus 23:10-11).

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary
Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus, is mentioned frequently in the Gospels, particularly in the context of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. The "other Mary" is likely Mary the mother of James and Joseph (Matthew 27:56). Their presence at the tomb highlights the role of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection, a significant detail given the cultural context where women's testimonies were often undervalued.

Went to see the tomb
The women’s visit to the tomb demonstrates their devotion and love for Jesus, as well as their desire to honor Him with spices and perfumes, as described in other Gospel accounts (Mark 16:1; Luke 24:1). This act of devotion is set against the backdrop of a sealed and guarded tomb (Matthew 27:65-66), emphasizing the miraculous nature of the resurrection. The empty tomb becomes a powerful testament to Jesus' victory over death, fulfilling prophecies such as Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12.

Suddenly there was a great earthquake
The occurrence of a great earthquake signifies a divine intervention, often associated with God's presence and power. Earthquakes in biblical times were seen as manifestations of God's activity (e.g., Exodus 19:18, 1 Kings 19:11). This particular earthquake marks the momentous event of Jesus' resurrection, emphasizing its significance. The suddenness of the earthquake underscores the unexpected and miraculous nature of the resurrection.

for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven
Angels are messengers of God, often appearing at pivotal moments in biblical history. The descent of the angel from heaven highlights the divine origin of the message and action taking place. This angelic appearance is reminiscent of other significant biblical events where angels played crucial roles, such as the announcement of Jesus' birth (Luke 2:9-14) and the angelic assistance to Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11).

rolled away the stone
The rolling away of the stone is a physical act that symbolizes the removal of barriers between humanity and God. The stone, which sealed the tomb, represents death and finality. By rolling it away, the angel demonstrates that Jesus has conquered death. This act fulfills Jesus' prophecy of His resurrection (Matthew 16:21) and signifies the opening of the way to eternal life for believers.

and sat on it
The angel sitting on the stone signifies triumph and authority. In ancient times, sitting was a posture of rest and dominion, indicating that the work was completed. The angel's position on the stone serves as a visual testament to the victory over death and the grave. It also reassures the witnesses of the resurrection's reality and the fulfillment of God's promises.

His appearance was like lightning
The description of the angel's appearance as "like lightning" emphasizes the divine and supernatural nature of the being. Lightning is often associated with God's power and presence in the Bible, as seen in Exodus 19:16 during the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. This imagery conveys a sense of awe and fear, highlighting the angel's role as a messenger of God. The brightness and suddenness of lightning also symbolize the revelation of God's truth and the breaking in of the divine into the earthly realm. This description aligns with other biblical accounts of angelic appearances, such as in Daniel 10:6, where an angel is described with a face like lightning.

and his clothes were white as snow
The whiteness of the angel's clothes signifies purity, holiness, and righteousness. In biblical symbolism, white garments often represent the righteousness of God and those who are in His presence. This imagery is consistent with other scriptural references, such as in Revelation 3:5, where the faithful are promised to be clothed in white garments. The comparison to snow, which is pure and unstained, further emphasizes the angel's divine origin and the message of resurrection and new life. This description also connects to the transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17:2, where His clothes became as white as light, indicating His divine glory. The use of snow, a natural element, underscores the purity and perfection of the heavenly realm.

The guards trembled in fear of him
The guards stationed at the tomb were Roman soldiers, known for their discipline and bravery. Their trembling indicates the extraordinary nature of the event they witnessed. The "him" refers to the angel of the Lord, whose appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. This reaction underscores the divine power and authority of the angelic presence, which even the most hardened soldiers could not withstand. The fear experienced by the guards is reminiscent of other biblical instances where humans encounter the divine, such as the shepherds' fear at the announcement of Jesus' birth (Luke 2:9).

and became like dead men
This phrase suggests that the guards were so overwhelmed by fear that they were immobilized, possibly fainting or being paralyzed. This reaction highlights the supernatural aspect of the resurrection event, as the guards were unable to perform their duty of securing the tomb. The imagery of becoming "like dead men" contrasts with the resurrection of Jesus, who conquered death. This moment fulfills the prophecy of the Messiah's victory over death and foreshadows the ultimate defeat of death and sin. The guards' inability to respond also emphasizes the futility of human efforts against God's sovereign plan.

But the angel said to the women
Angelic appearances in the Bible often signify divine intervention or the delivery of an important message. Angels are messengers of God, and their presence here underscores the significance of the resurrection event. The women mentioned are likely Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, who had come to see the tomb. In the cultural context of the time, women were not considered reliable witnesses, yet the Gospels highlight their role, emphasizing the inclusivity of the Gospel message.

Do not be afraid
This phrase is a common reassurance given by angels in Scripture, as seen in Luke 1:13 and Luke 2:10. Fear is a natural human response to the supernatural, and the angel's words are meant to calm and prepare the women for the revelation of the resurrection. The command not to fear also reflects the transformative power of the resurrection, which conquers fear and death.

for I know that you are looking for Jesus
The angel acknowledges the purpose of the women's visit, showing divine awareness of human actions and intentions. This phrase highlights the devotion and love the women had for Jesus, as they sought Him even after His death. It also sets the stage for the revelation that Jesus is no longer in the tomb, pointing to the fulfillment of His promise to rise again.

who was crucified
This reference to the crucifixion is crucial, as it affirms the historical reality of Jesus' death. The crucifixion was a well-documented Roman method of execution, and its mention here underscores the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. It also connects to Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which foretold the suffering of the Messiah. The crucifixion is central to Christian theology, as it represents the atonement for sin and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

He is not here;
This phrase signifies the absence of Jesus' body from the tomb, confirming the resurrection. The empty tomb is a central tenet of Christian faith, symbolizing victory over death. The location, a garden tomb near Golgotha, aligns with Jewish burial customs of the time, where bodies were placed in rock-hewn tombs. The absence of Jesus' body was a pivotal point for the disciples and early Christians, as it provided tangible evidence of the resurrection.

He has risen,
The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian belief, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies such as Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12. It demonstrates Jesus' divine nature and His victory over sin and death. The resurrection was foretold by Jesus Himself in passages like Matthew 16:21 and John 2:19-22, affirming His role as the Messiah. This event is celebrated by Christians worldwide, particularly on Easter Sunday.

just as He said!
This phrase emphasizes the fulfillment of Jesus' own predictions about His death and resurrection, as seen in Matthew 12:40 and Matthew 20:19. It underscores Jesus' reliability and the truth of His words, reinforcing His prophetic role. The fulfillment of His predictions serves to strengthen the faith of His followers and validate His teachings.

Come, see the place where He lay.
The invitation to see the empty tomb serves as an invitation to witness the evidence of the resurrection firsthand. This aligns with the Jewish legal principle of establishing truth through witnesses, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:15. The physical evidence of the empty tomb, combined with the testimony of the women and later the disciples, forms a foundational proof of the resurrection. The location of the tomb, traditionally believed to be the Church of the Holy Sepulchre or the Garden Tomb, remains a site of pilgrimage and reflection for believers.

Then go quickly and tell His disciples
The angel instructs the women to act with urgency, emphasizing the importance of the message. This reflects the immediacy of the Gospel's spread after the resurrection. The disciples, who were in hiding due to fear of persecution, needed reassurance and confirmation of Jesus' victory over death. This command also highlights the role of women as the first messengers of the resurrection, which was counter-cultural in a society where women's testimonies were often undervalued.

‘He has risen from the dead
This declaration is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming Jesus' victory over death and fulfilling His prophecy of resurrection (Matthew 16:21). It confirms Jesus as the Son of God, as Paul later emphasizes in Romans 1:4. The resurrection is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12, which speak of the Messiah's triumph over death.

and is going ahead of you into Galilee
Galilee is significant as the region where Jesus began His ministry and performed many miracles. It symbolizes a return to the roots of His earthly mission. This instruction also fulfills Jesus' own prediction in Matthew 26:32, where He tells the disciples He will go before them to Galilee after His resurrection. Galilee, being a place of mixed populations, also foreshadows the universal nature of the Gospel.

There you will see Him
The promise of seeing Jesus in Galilee provides hope and assurance to the disciples. It signifies a personal encounter with the risen Christ, which is foundational for their future mission. This appearance in Galilee is one of several post-resurrection appearances, each serving to strengthen the disciples' faith and prepare them for the Great Commission.

See, I have told you.”
The angel's statement underscores the reliability and authority of the message. It serves as a divine confirmation that what has been spoken will indeed come to pass. This assurance is crucial for the disciples, who are about to embark on spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth, as seen in Matthew 28:19-20. The angel's words echo the prophetic tradition of delivering God's message with certainty.

So they hurried away from the tomb
The women at the tomb, likely Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, were the first to witness the empty tomb. Their immediate reaction was to leave quickly, indicating the urgency and importance of the event. The tomb, located outside Jerusalem, was a new tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea. The act of hurrying away signifies the profound impact of the resurrection, a pivotal moment in Christian faith, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy of rising on the third day (Matthew 16:21).

in fear and great joy
The emotions of fear and joy reflect a complex response to the divine encounter. Fear, in this context, is a reverential awe rather than terror, acknowledging the supernatural event they witnessed. Great joy signifies the fulfillment of Jesus' promises and the hope of eternal life. This duality of emotions is common in biblical theophanies, where human beings encounter the divine (e.g., Isaiah 6:5, Luke 2:9-10).

and ran to tell His disciples
The women were entrusted with the message of the resurrection, highlighting their role as the first evangelists. This act of running to tell the disciples underscores the urgency and importance of the resurrection news. The disciples, who were in hiding due to fear of persecution, needed this confirmation to strengthen their faith and prepare for their mission. This moment fulfills Jesus' earlier instructions to spread the Gospel (Matthew 28:19-20) and sets the stage for the Great Commission.

Suddenly Jesus met them
This phrase highlights the unexpected and miraculous nature of Jesus' appearance to the women. It underscores the reality of the resurrection, as Jesus physically meets them on their way. This encounter fulfills His promise of rising on the third day (Matthew 16:21). The suddenness emphasizes the divine intervention and the fulfillment of prophecy, as seen in Isaiah 53:10-12, where the suffering servant is promised life after death.

and said, “Greetings!”
The greeting is simple yet profound, indicating peace and reassurance. In the cultural context, such a greeting would be customary, but coming from the risen Christ, it carries deeper significance. It signifies the restoration of relationship and the beginning of a new era. This echoes the angelic announcement of peace at Jesus' birth (Luke 2:14), now fulfilled in His victory over death.

They came to Him
The women’s approach to Jesus demonstrates their faith and devotion. In the context of first-century Judea, women were not typically considered reliable witnesses, yet they are the first to see the risen Lord. This highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel and the breaking of societal norms, as seen in Galatians 3:28, where all are one in Christ.

grasped His feet
Grasping His feet signifies both the physical reality of the resurrection and an act of submission and reverence. In ancient Near Eastern culture, touching the feet of a superior was a sign of respect and humility. This act confirms that Jesus is not a ghost or vision but has a tangible, resurrected body, as further evidenced in Luke 24:39.

and worshiped Him
The worship of Jesus by the women is a recognition of His divinity and messianic identity. Worship is reserved for God alone, and their response affirms Jesus as Lord and God, fulfilling Thomas's later declaration in John 20:28. This act of worship connects to Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah being worshiped, such as in Psalm 22:27-28, and foreshadows the universal worship of Christ in Philippians 2:10-11.

“Do not be afraid,” said Jesus.
This phrase is a common reassurance found throughout Scripture, often spoken by divine messengers or God Himself. It reflects the compassionate nature of Jesus, who understands the fear and confusion of His followers after His resurrection. The command not to fear is significant, as it echoes the angel's message to the women at the tomb earlier in the chapter. Fear is a natural human response to the supernatural, but Jesus' presence transforms fear into peace. This assurance is reminiscent of God's words to Joshua (Joshua 1:9) and the angel's message to Mary (Luke 1:30), emphasizing trust in God's plan.

“Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee.”
Jesus refers to His disciples as "My brothers," indicating a deep familial bond and a new relationship established through His death and resurrection. This term of endearment highlights the unity and love within the early Christian community. The instruction to go to Galilee is significant because Galilee is where Jesus began His ministry and where many of His disciples were called. It symbolizes a return to the roots of their mission and the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to meet them there (Matthew 26:32). Galilee, being a region with a mix of Jewish and Gentile populations, also foreshadows the Great Commission to spread the Gospel to all nations.

There they will see Me.”
This promise of a future appearance in Galilee provides hope and assurance to the disciples. It confirms the reality of the resurrection and the continuity of Jesus' mission. The physical appearance of Jesus to His disciples in Galilee serves as a pivotal moment for their faith, transforming them from fearful followers into bold witnesses. This encounter fulfills Jesus' earlier predictions of His resurrection and appearances (Matthew 16:21, 17:22-23). It also prefigures the eschatological hope of seeing Jesus again, as promised in passages like 1 John 3:2 and Revelation 22:4, where believers will see Him face to face.

While the women were on their way
This phrase refers to the women who had visited Jesus' tomb early on the first day of the week. They were on their way to inform the disciples of the resurrection, as instructed by the angel. This highlights the role of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection, which is significant given the cultural context where women's testimonies were often undervalued. This moment underscores the transformative nature of the Gospel, where societal norms are upended.

some of the guards went into the city
The guards mentioned here were Roman soldiers assigned to watch over Jesus' tomb to prevent His body from being stolen, as the chief priests and Pharisees had feared. Their going into the city, likely Jerusalem, indicates a sense of urgency and the gravity of the situation, as they were responsible for the security of the tomb. The city, being the center of Jewish religious life, is significant as the place where the news of the resurrection would first spread.

and reported to the chief priests all that had happened
The guards' report to the chief priests is crucial, as it sets the stage for the religious leaders' response to the resurrection. The chief priests were part of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, and had been instrumental in orchestrating Jesus' crucifixion. Their receipt of the guards' report highlights the tension between the miraculous event of the resurrection and the religious leaders' attempts to suppress it. This moment fulfills Jesus' predictions of His resurrection and the opposition it would face, as seen in earlier Gospel accounts. The guards' testimony, despite their pagan background, inadvertently supports the truth of the resurrection, contrasting with the disbelief of the religious leaders.

And after the chief priests had met with the elders and formed a plan
The chief priests and elders were part of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. This meeting highlights their continued opposition to Jesus, even after His resurrection. Their actions fulfill the prophecy of Psalm 2:2, where rulers take counsel against the Lord and His Anointed. The plan they formed was a direct attempt to suppress the truth of the resurrection, which was a pivotal event in Christian faith. This reflects the ongoing conflict between the religious authorities and the early Christian movement.

they gave the soldiers a large sum of money
The soldiers were likely Roman guards assigned to watch the tomb, as described earlier in Matthew 27:65-66. The large sum of money indicates the seriousness with which the chief priests and elders viewed the potential spread of the resurrection story. This act of bribery is reminiscent of the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, who also received money (Matthew 26:14-16). The use of money to manipulate events underscores the corrupt practices of the religious leaders and their desperation to maintain control over the narrative surrounding Jesus' resurrection.

and instructed them:
The chief priests and elders devised a plan to counteract the resurrection of Jesus. This instruction was given to the Roman guards who were responsible for watching the tomb. The religious leaders were concerned about maintaining their authority and preventing the spread of Jesus' teachings. This reflects the ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, as seen throughout the Gospels.

“You are to say,
The religious leaders were orchestrating a false narrative. This phrase indicates a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation. It highlights the lengths to which the authorities would go to suppress the truth of the resurrection. This act of deception is reminiscent of other instances in the Bible where truth is opposed by falsehood, such as the lies of the serpent in Genesis 3.

‘His disciples came by night
The claim that the disciples stole Jesus' body was intended to explain the empty tomb without acknowledging the resurrection. The mention of "by night" suggests secrecy and deceit, playing into the narrative that the disciples were acting unlawfully. This accusation is ironic, given that the religious leaders themselves were engaging in deceit.

and stole Him away
The idea of the disciples stealing Jesus' body was implausible, considering the Roman guard and the sealed tomb. This phrase underscores the desperation of the religious leaders to provide an alternative explanation for the resurrection. The notion of theft contrasts with the truth of Jesus' victory over death, as prophesied in scriptures like Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12.

while we were asleep.’
This part of the instruction is particularly problematic, as it implies negligence on the part of the guards, which would have been punishable by death under Roman law. The absurdity of the claim is evident, as sleeping guards would not have been able to witness the alleged theft. This highlights the implausibility of the story and serves to further authenticate the resurrection account by demonstrating the lengths to which the authorities would go to deny it.

If this report reaches the governor
This phrase refers to the concern of the Jewish leaders about the potential spread of the news regarding Jesus' resurrection. The "governor" mentioned here is Pontius Pilate, the Roman official overseeing Judea. Historically, Pilate was known for his pragmatic approach to governance, often prioritizing political stability over strict adherence to justice. The Jewish leaders were worried that the report of Jesus' resurrection could cause unrest or challenge their authority, as Jesus had been a significant figure with a large following. This reflects the tension between the Jewish authorities and the Roman government, as well as the delicate balance they maintained to keep peace in the region.

we will satisfy him
The Jewish leaders promise to "satisfy" Pilate, indicating their intention to appease him and prevent any negative consequences for the soldiers. This suggests a level of influence or leverage they believed they had over Pilate, possibly due to their previous interactions, such as during Jesus' trial. It also highlights the political maneuvering common in that era, where leaders often engaged in negotiations and compromises to maintain their positions and avoid conflict. This assurance implies a willingness to use resources, possibly financial or political, to ensure Pilate's cooperation.

and keep you out of trouble.”
The promise to "keep you out of trouble" is directed at the soldiers who were guarding Jesus' tomb. Roman soldiers faced severe penalties for failing in their duties, including execution. The Jewish leaders' assurance indicates their commitment to protecting the soldiers from such consequences, likely to ensure their silence and cooperation. This reflects the broader theme of the resurrection narrative, where various parties attempt to suppress the truth of Jesus' resurrection. It also underscores the lengths to which the Jewish leaders were willing to go to maintain their narrative and prevent the spread of Christianity, which they saw as a threat to their authority and religious traditions.

So the guards took the money
The guards, likely Roman soldiers, were bribed by the chief priests to spread a false narrative about Jesus' resurrection. This act of bribery highlights the lengths to which the religious leaders went to suppress the truth of the resurrection. In the cultural context, Roman soldiers were expected to maintain strict discipline and honesty, making this act of taking a bribe particularly significant. The use of money as a tool for deception is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

and did as they were instructed.
The guards followed the instructions given by the chief priests, indicating the influence and authority the religious leaders held. This obedience to corrupt orders reflects the moral and ethical challenges faced by individuals in positions of power. The guards' compliance also underscores the tension between truth and falsehood, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible. This act of following deceitful instructions contrasts with the call for believers to obey God rather than men, as seen in Acts 5:29.

And this account has been circulated among the Jews
The spread of this false account among the Jewish people demonstrates the early opposition to the message of the resurrection. It highlights the challenges faced by the early Christian community in proclaiming the truth of Jesus' victory over death. The persistence of this narrative among the Jews also reflects the broader theme of unbelief and rejection of Jesus as the Messiah, as prophesied in Isaiah 53:3. This opposition is a recurring theme in the New Testament, as seen in the various accounts of resistance to the apostles' teachings in the Book of Acts.

to this very day.
The phrase "to this very day" indicates that the false narrative continued to be believed and propagated long after the events took place. This enduring disbelief serves as a reminder of the spiritual blindness that can persist despite clear evidence of God's work. It also emphasizes the importance of faith and the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing truth to individuals. The ongoing circulation of this account parallels the enduring nature of other false teachings and heresies that the early church had to confront, as addressed in the epistles of Paul and John.

Meanwhile, the eleven disciples
The term "eleven disciples" refers to the original twelve apostles minus Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus and subsequently died. This group is significant as they were chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and witnesses to His ministry. The number eleven highlights the absence of Judas and sets the stage for the later addition of Matthias in Acts 1:26. The disciples are central figures in the early church and are tasked with spreading the Gospel.

went to Galilee
Galilee is a region in northern Israel, significant in Jesus' ministry as many of His teachings and miracles occurred there. It is also where Jesus first called some of His disciples. The return to Galilee fulfills Jesus' post-resurrection instruction (Matthew 28:7, 10) and symbolizes a return to the beginning of His ministry, emphasizing continuity and fulfillment of His mission. Galilee, being a diverse and less politically charged area than Jerusalem, serves as a strategic location for the disciples to regroup and receive the Great Commission.

to the mountain
Mountains in biblical narratives often serve as places of revelation and divine encounter. Examples include Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Law, and the Mount of Transfiguration, where Jesus was revealed in glory. The specific mountain is not named, but its mention suggests a setting for a significant revelation or instruction. Mountains symbolize stability, permanence, and a closer proximity to God, setting the stage for the momentous commissioning of the disciples.

Jesus had designated
This phrase indicates Jesus' foreknowledge and authority. He had previously instructed the disciples to meet Him in Galilee (Matthew 26:32, 28:7, 10), demonstrating His control over events even after His resurrection. The designation of a specific meeting place underscores the intentionality of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and His continued guidance of the disciples. This pre-arranged meeting highlights the importance of obedience and trust in Jesus' instructions.

When they saw Him
This phrase refers to the disciples' encounter with the resurrected Jesus on a mountain in Galilee. The setting is significant as Galilee was the region where Jesus began His ministry and performed many miracles. This meeting fulfills Jesus' promise to appear to His disciples after His resurrection (Matthew 26:32). The physical sighting of Jesus confirms the reality of His bodily resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming His victory over death and His divine nature.

they worshiped Him
The act of worship indicates recognition of Jesus' divine status. In Jewish culture, worship was reserved for God alone, so the disciples' worship of Jesus underscores their acknowledgment of His deity. This moment reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's divine nature (Isaiah 9:6) and aligns with New Testament affirmations of Jesus' divinity (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9). Worship here is both a physical act and a spiritual acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Savior.

but some doubted
This phrase highlights the human struggle with faith and doubt, even among those who were closest to Jesus. The Greek word for "doubted" can imply hesitation or uncertainty. This doubt does not necessarily indicate disbelief but rather a struggle to comprehend the miraculous nature of the resurrection. It serves as a reminder of the disciples' humanity and the process of growing in faith. This moment of doubt is echoed in other Gospel accounts, such as Thomas' skepticism (John 20:24-29), and it emphasizes the importance of faith in the unseen (Hebrews 11:1).

Then Jesus came to them and said,
This phrase indicates a deliberate action by Jesus to approach His disciples. It occurs after His resurrection, emphasizing His physical presence and the reality of His bodily resurrection. The setting is Galilee, where Jesus had instructed His disciples to meet Him (Matthew 28:10). This moment fulfills His promise to rise again and meet them, reinforcing His reliability and the truth of His words. The act of coming to them signifies His initiative in revealing Himself and His message, highlighting His role as the Good Shepherd who seeks out His followers.

“All authority in heaven and on earth
This declaration of authority is comprehensive, encompassing both the spiritual realm ("in heaven") and the physical realm ("on earth"). It reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is given dominion and glory. This authority is not newly acquired but is now fully realized and manifested through His resurrection. It underscores Jesus' divine nature and His sovereignty over all creation, aligning with Colossians 1:16-17, which speaks of Christ's preeminence in all things. This authority is foundational for the Great Commission that follows, as it legitimizes the disciples' mission to spread the gospel.

has been given to Me.
The phrase "has been given" indicates a conferral of authority, suggesting a divine act by God the Father. This aligns with Philippians 2:9-11, where God exalts Jesus and gives Him the name above every name. It reflects the completion of Jesus' earthly mission, His obedience unto death, and His subsequent exaltation. The passive construction ("has been given") emphasizes the Father's role in this divine plan, highlighting the unity and cooperation within the Trinity. This authority is not self-assumed but divinely bestowed, affirming Jesus' role as the mediator between God and humanity and His position as the head of the Church.

Therefore go
This command follows the resurrection of Jesus, marking a pivotal moment where His authority is established. The term "go" implies action and movement, suggesting that the disciples are to actively engage in spreading the message. This echoes the call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1, where he is told to leave his country and go to a land God will show him, emphasizing obedience and faith.

and make disciples
The focus is on making disciples, not just converts. This involves teaching and nurturing believers to grow in their faith. The process of discipleship is seen throughout the New Testament, particularly in the relationship between Paul and Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2). It reflects the rabbinic tradition where a teacher would mentor students, emphasizing learning and imitation.

of all nations
This phrase expands the mission beyond the Jewish people to include Gentiles, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 22:18). It underscores the universal scope of the Gospel, breaking cultural and ethnic barriers, as seen in the early church's outreach in Acts 10 with Cornelius, a Gentile.

baptizing them
Baptism is a public declaration of faith and an initiation into the Christian community. It symbolizes purification and the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:3-4). The practice of baptism has roots in Jewish purification rituals but is given new meaning in the context of the New Covenant.

in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit
This Trinitarian formula highlights the unity and distinct roles of the Godhead in the work of salvation. It affirms the deity of Christ and the Holy Spirit, aligning with passages like John 1:1-14 and Acts 5:3-4. The use of "name" in the singular emphasizes the oneness of God, while acknowledging the three persons, a mystery central to Christian doctrine.

and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.
This phrase emphasizes the importance of discipleship and obedience in the Christian faith. The command to teach is rooted in the Jewish tradition of rabbinical instruction, where a rabbi would impart not just knowledge but a way of life to their disciples. Jesus, as the ultimate Rabbi, commands His followers to pass on His teachings, which include the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and the Great Commandment to love God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). The use of "all" underscores the comprehensive nature of Jesus' teachings, which cover moral, ethical, and spiritual dimensions. This directive aligns with Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where the Israelites are instructed to teach God's commandments diligently to their children, highlighting continuity between the Old and New Testaments.

And surely I am with you always,
This promise of Jesus' presence is a profound assurance to His disciples. It echoes God's promise to be with His people throughout the Old Testament, such as in Joshua 1:9, where God assures Joshua of His presence as he leads Israel into the Promised Land. The phrase "I am with you" is significant, as it reflects the divine name "I AM" revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, suggesting Jesus' divinity and eternal presence. This assurance would have been particularly comforting to the early Christians facing persecution, reminding them that they are never alone in their mission. The promise of Jesus' presence is also a fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14, where the coming Messiah is called "Immanuel," meaning "God with us."

even to the end of the age.”
This phrase indicates the duration of Jesus' promise, extending until the culmination of history. The "end of the age" refers to the eschatological completion of God's redemptive plan, a concept rooted in Jewish apocalyptic literature. It points to the time when Christ will return, as described in Matthew 24:3 and Revelation 21:1-4, bringing about the new heaven and new earth. This assurance of Jesus' presence until the end of the age provides hope and motivation for believers to continue their mission, knowing that their efforts are part of a divine plan that will ultimately be fulfilled. The phrase also connects to Daniel 7:13-14, where the "Son of Man" is given an everlasting dominion, reinforcing the eternal nature of Christ's kingdom.