New Testament
Matthew 27:63
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"Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive, that deceiver claimed, 'After 3 days I will rise again.'
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Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
What Matthew 27:63 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the religious leaders are speaking to Pilate about Jesus. They refer to Jesus as 'that deceiver,' showing their disdain for him. They recall that Jesus had predicted his resurrection after three days, which they seem to take seriously despite their efforts to silence him. This highlights their fear of his influence and the possibility that he might actually rise from the dead, as he claimed. The mention of 'three days' is significant, as it emphasizes the timeline of his resurrection, which is central to Christian belief. The leaders' concern reflects their desire to prevent any potential uprising or belief in Jesus' power, indicating their desperation to maintain control over the situation. This moment sets the stage for the events that follow, where they take measures to secure Jesus' tomb, fearing that his disciples might steal his body and claim he has risen. Their actions reveal the lengths to which they will go to suppress the truth they fear.
How to apply Matthew 27:63 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of recognizing and confronting our fears about truth and influence. Just as the religious leaders were concerned about Jesus' claims, we should examine our own beliefs and the truths we may be hesitant to accept. Embracing truth can lead to transformation and hope.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Burial (Matthew 27:57–66)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 27:63 mean?
Matthew 27:63 captures the moment when religious leaders remind Pilate of Jesus' claim that he would rise after three days. They refer to him as 'that deceiver,' showing their disdain and fear of his influence, as they take his prediction seriously.
What is the significance of 'three days' in Matthew 27:63?
The mention of 'three days' in Matthew 27:63 is significant because it highlights the timeline of Jesus' resurrection, which is a central belief in Christianity. It emphasizes the urgency and concern of the religious leaders about the possibility of Jesus rising as he claimed.
Why do the religious leaders call Jesus 'that deceiver' in Matthew 27:63?
The religious leaders call Jesus 'that deceiver' in Matthew 27:63 to express their contempt and to undermine his credibility. This term reflects their belief that Jesus misled people with his teachings and predictions, particularly regarding his resurrection.
What actions did the religious leaders take after Matthew 27:63?
After Matthew 27:63, the religious leaders took measures to secure Jesus' tomb, fearing that his disciples might steal his body and claim he had risen. Their actions reveal their desperation to maintain control and suppress any belief in Jesus' resurrection.
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