New Testament
Matthew 28:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, as the women who discovered the empty tomb were leaving, some guards who had been assigned to watch over the tomb went into the city.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported everything that had happened to the chief priests.
Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, as the women who discovered the empty tomb were leaving, some guards who had been assigned to watch over the tomb went into the city. They reported to the chief priests everything that had occurred, including the resurrection of Jesus. This moment highlights the tension between the guards' duty to report the truth and the religious leaders' desire to maintain control over the narrative surrounding Jesus' resurrection. The guards, who witnessed the miraculous event, chose to inform the authorities rather than remain silent. This act sets the stage for the subsequent actions of the chief priests, who would attempt to suppress the truth of the resurrection and create a false narrative to protect their power and influence. The guards' report signifies the importance of truth and accountability, even in the face of potential consequences from those in authority.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 28:11 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of being truthful and accountable, even when it may be uncomfortable. We should strive to share the truth in our lives, just as the guards did, regardless of the potential backlash from those in power. Speaking the truth can lead to significant changes and challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 28:11 mean?
Matthew 28:11 describes how some guards, after witnessing the resurrection of Jesus, went to report to the chief priests about what had happened. This highlights the conflict between the truth of the resurrection and the efforts of religious leaders to control the narrative.
What is the significance of the guards in Matthew 28:11?
The guards in Matthew 28:11 play a crucial role as witnesses to the resurrection. Their decision to report to the chief priests emphasizes the tension between acknowledging the miraculous event and the desire of the authorities to suppress it.
Why did the guards report to the chief priests in Matthew 28:11?
The guards reported to the chief priests because they had witnessed the resurrection of Jesus and felt compelled to inform the authorities. Their action reflects the importance of accountability, even when it may lead to conflict with those in power.
What themes are present in Matthew 28:11?
Key themes in Matthew 28:11 include resurrection, truth, authority, and the role of witnesses. The verse highlights the struggle between the truth of Jesus' resurrection and the efforts of religious leaders to maintain control over the situation.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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