Book of Matthew - Chapter 28 - Verse 4

When Matthew describes the event where the keepers of the tomb of Jesus were encountered by an angel, he paints a vivid picture of their reaction. The keepers were filled with fear and trembling in the presence of the angel, causing them to shake and become as dead men. This reaction reflects the overwhelming awe and terror that the divine presence often evokes in humans throughout the Bible. In this instance, the keepers' fear stems from witnessing a miraculous event that defies their understanding of the natural world. The angel's appearance and message of Jesus' resurrection were so powerful that it left the keepers paralyzed with fear. This verse highlights the profound impact of encountering the supernatural and the divine, serving as a reminder of the awe-inspiring power of God and the transformative effect it can have on those who witness it.

In this verse, we witness the reaction of the Roman soldiers who were guarding the tomb of Jesus. The phrase "And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men" underscores the overwhelming power and divine presence of an angel who descended from heaven to roll back the stone from the entrance of the tomb. The word "fear" in this context denotes a deep sense of awe and reverence, as the soldiers were confronted with something beyond their understanding or control. The image of the keepers shaking and becoming like dead men highlights the intense physical and emotional response they experienced in the presence of the angel. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of the supernatural events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus and the authority of God over the forces of darkness. Through this theological interpretation, we are reminded of the sovereignty and majesty of God, whose divine plan unfolded despite the efforts of humans to thwart it.