New Testament
Matthew 28:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the soldiers took the money and did what they were told. This story has been widely circulated among the Jewish people to this day.
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So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
What Matthew 28:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the aftermath of Jesus' resurrection. The soldiers, who were tasked with guarding the tomb, were bribed to spread a false story that Jesus' disciples stole His body. This indicates the lengths to which the authorities would go to suppress the truth about Jesus' resurrection. The phrase 'this story has been widely circulated' suggests that despite the truth, many people believed the lie. This reflects the challenges of faith in the face of opposition and misinformation. The soldiers' actions highlight the moral dilemmas individuals face when pressured by authority or financial gain. The ongoing circulation of this false narrative among the Jewish people serves as a reminder of the power of rumors and the importance of seeking the truth, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. This verse encapsulates the tension between truth and deception, especially in the context of significant events like the resurrection of Jesus.
How to apply Matthew 28:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek the truth and stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with pressure to conform to popular opinions or false narratives. It reminds us to be discerning and to prioritize integrity over financial or social gain.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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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 28:15 mean?
Matthew 28:15 describes how soldiers were bribed to spread a false story about Jesus' resurrection, claiming His disciples stole His body. This highlights the lengths to which authorities went to suppress the truth and the challenges faced by those who believe in Jesus.
What is the significance of the soldiers taking the money in Matthew 28:15?
The soldiers taking the money signifies their willingness to compromise their integrity for financial gain. It illustrates the moral dilemmas individuals face when pressured by authority or incentives to spread misinformation.
What does 'this story has been widely circulated' imply in Matthew 28:15?
The phrase implies that despite the truth of Jesus' resurrection, many people believed the false narrative. It reflects the power of rumors and the challenges of faith in the face of opposition.
What themes are present in Matthew 28:15?
Key themes in Matthew 28:15 include deception, authority, faith, truth, resurrection, and bribery. These themes highlight the conflict between truth and falsehood, especially regarding significant events.
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