Book of Matthew - Chapter 28 - Verse 8
Meaning
After witnessing the resurrection of Jesus, the women at the sepulchre experienced a range of emotions. They were filled with fear and great joy as they realized the miraculous event that had just taken place. Their fear stemmed from the awe-inspiring power of God, who had conquered death and brought their beloved teacher back to life. This fear was mixed with overwhelming joy, as they understood the significance of this event and the hope it brought to all believers. The women's immediate response was to run and share the news with Jesus' disciples, eager to spread the message of the resurrection. This verse captures the intense emotions and sense of urgency that the women felt in the wake of such a profound experience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of Jesus' resurrection and the call to share the good news with others.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse 'And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.' reveals the complex emotions experienced by the women as they encountered the empty tomb of Jesus. The presence of fear and great joy highlights the awe-inspiring nature of the resurrection and the profound impact it had on those who witnessed it. The women's immediate response to run and share the news with the disciples exemplifies their obedience to the command to spread the good news of Jesus' victory over death. Additionally, a word study of 'sepulchre' underscores the significance of the burial site as the place where Jesus' body had been laid to rest before his miraculous resurrection. The contrast between fear and joy in this verse invites readers to reflect on the mixed emotions that often accompany encounters with the divine and the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ.