New Testament
Matthew 28:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The angel spoke to the women: "Don't be afraid. I know you're looking for Jesus, who was crucified."
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And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
What Matthew 28:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, an angel addresses the women who came to Jesus' tomb after his crucifixion. The angel reassures them not to be afraid, acknowledging their search for Jesus. This moment is significant as it marks the transition from despair to hope. The women had witnessed the crucifixion and were likely filled with grief and fear. The angel's message serves to comfort them, reminding them that Jesus, though crucified, is not in the tomb. This encounter emphasizes the importance of faith in the face of fear and uncertainty. The angel's words highlight the reality of Jesus' resurrection, which is central to Christian belief. The reassurance given to the women reflects God's care and the promise of new life, encouraging believers to trust in God's plan even when circumstances seem dire. This moment sets the stage for the announcement of the resurrection, a pivotal event in Christianity that signifies victory over death and the hope of eternal life for all who believe.
How to apply Matthew 28:5 to your life
When faced with fear or uncertainty, remember that God provides comfort and reassurance. Like the women at the tomb, we can seek Jesus in our moments of doubt. Trust in His promises and embrace the hope that comes from faith in His resurrection.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Empty Tomb (Matthew 28:1–10)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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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 28:5 mean for believers today?
Matthew 28:5 serves as a powerful reminder for believers that even in moments of fear and uncertainty, God is present to provide comfort and reassurance. The angel's message to the women highlights the importance of faith in the resurrection of Jesus, encouraging believers to trust in God's promises. This verse reassures us that death is not the end, and through faith in Christ, we can experience hope and new life.
Why did the angel tell the women not to be afraid?
The angel instructed the women not to be afraid because they were likely overwhelmed with grief and fear after witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus. The message was meant to comfort them, reminding them that their search for Jesus was not in vain. The reassurance signifies that God's plan is unfolding, and the resurrection of Jesus brings hope, transforming fear into joy for those who believe.
How does this verse relate to the theme of resurrection?
Matthew 28:5 is pivotal in the theme of resurrection as it marks the moment when the reality of Jesus' resurrection is first announced. The angel's words affirm that Jesus, though crucified, is alive, which is central to Christian faith. This moment transitions the narrative from despair to hope, emphasizing that resurrection signifies victory over death and the promise of eternal life for believers.
What can we learn from the women at the tomb in this verse?
The women at the tomb exemplify the courage to seek Jesus even in their moments of fear and uncertainty. Their actions encourage believers to approach God in times of doubt and distress. This verse teaches us that seeking Jesus can lead to profound encounters with His presence and promises, reminding us that faith can transform our fears into hope.
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