Book of Matthew - Chapter 17 - Verse 7

When Jesus came and touched the disciples and spoke to them, saying 'Arise, and be not afraid', He was demonstrating his power and authority over fear and doubt. This powerful moment not only showed the disciples that Jesus was capable of performing miracles, but also reassured them that they had nothing to fear in His presence. By reaching out and physically touching them, Jesus was showing them his compassion and care for their well-being. The act of touching them also symbolized His willingness to be close to them and to comfort them in times of distress. Additionally, His words, urging them to 'arise' and not be afraid, encouraged the disciples to have faith and trust in Him, knowing that He would always be there to support and guide them. This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus' love and power, as well as His desire for His followers to have courage and faith in Him.

The theological interpretation of the verse "And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid," can be understood in various ways. Firstly, the act of Jesus touching the disciples demonstrates his compassion and power as the Son of God. By physically touching them, he not only reassures them but also imparts his healing and transformative grace upon them. This gesture symbolizes the personal nature of Jesus' ministry, showing that he is intimately involved in the lives of his followers.

Furthermore, the words spoken by Jesus, "Arise, and be not afraid," carry deep theological significance. The command to "arise" can be seen as a call to action, encouraging the disciples to stand up both physically and spiritually, to move forward with confidence and faith. The reassurance to "be not afraid" reflects Jesus' role as a source of comfort and strength, reminding the disciples of his presence and protection in the face of fear and adversity.

In terms of word studies, the verb "touched" in this verse can be explored in its original Greek form, haptomai, which conveys a sense of close contact and connection. This choice of word emphasizes the intimate and personal nature of Jesus' interaction with his disciples, highlighting his power to bring about transformation and healing through his touch.