Matthew 28:13

MATT 28:13

The bribed plan continues with the priests instructing the soldiers to claim disciples came at night and stole Jesus’ body while they slept. The phrasing capitalizes on the vulnerability of the guards (sleep, confusion) to manufacture a plausible explanation. This is a classic example of a manufactured narrative designed to suppress a scandal and maintain social order. The verse highlights how once a false story is put in circulation, it can become widely believed, especially in communities with limited access to other sources of information.

This episode continues to test whether truth will prevail over deception. It also highlights the robust historicity of the resurrection accounts: the claim of “stolen by night while we slept” is blatantly implausible from a practical standpoint, yet it helps explain why the authorities sought to suppress the truth rather than defend a real event. The narrative thus strengthens the case for the resurrection by presenting the alternative—the official counterfeit story—and showing its vulnerabilities.

For today, the verse invites discernment about competing narratives in culture. In a media-saturated world, false stories can spread quickly. Practically, pursue sources beyond rumors. Verify information, seek first-hand witnesses, and examine evidence. Encourage open dialogue about faith, listen to doubts, and be prepared to share the truth with gentleness and respect. When you encounter “stolen body” type explanations, ask honest questions: What would it take to verify or refute this claim? Use critical thinking, but also hold space for the spiritual dimension of belief, recognizing that some truths require faith in addition to reason.

Cross-References: John 20:31; Luke 24:11; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Acts 1:3