Keep working on learning where to look for different things in Matthew's Gospel. In chapter Twenty-Seven Jesus is executed.
Write down at least three questions you hope will be answered.
Read Albrecht's commentary on Matthew, pages 434-444.
See if you have any more questions or answers.
Questions for Study and Discussion:
Recall that at the death of Jesus in chapter 27 there was an earthquake. In 28:2 there is one accompanying the resurrection as well. Matthew's account here suggests that the angel came at the same time as the women, and that Jesus was gone when the tomb was opened. What does this tell us about the nature of Jesus' body in the resurrection?
In verse 11 the guards tell the chief priests what happened. In the verses that follow, the chief priests engage in what they see as damage control. What do their actions signify?
We are told in other passages, notably in Luke/Acts, John, and 1 Cor. 15 of other post-resurrection events until Jesus ascended 40 days after the resurrection. Matthew jumps directly to the 40th day in verse 16.
Analyze the implications of verses 16-20 in detail. How do they anticipate what Christians still think and do?