Matthew 28:8

MATT 28:8

This verse sits at the crux of Matthew’s resurrection narrative: the women, astonished by an empty tomb, depart with a mix of fear and great joy. “Fear” signals awe in the presence of divine mystery and the recognition that what has happened transcends ordinary expectations. “Great joy” springs from the proclamation that Jesus is alive, overturning sorrow with hope. The phrase “with fear and great joy” captures a dynamic tension—reverent caution alongside transformative gladness. Historically, these women are faithful adherents who have stood by Jesus during his crucifixion and early ministry. Culturally, women in first-century Judaism often occupied peripheral social roles, yet here they are uniquely commissioned bearers of the Good News from the tomb. Their act of running to tell the disciples mirrors the pattern of faithful witnesses who, in the wake of an empty tomb, become messengers of life.

Matthew foregrounds personal encounter and proclamation as the proper response to resurrection: first witnesses announce the event, not explain it away. The dual emotion—fear and joy—reveals that God’s triumph is not sanitized triumph but life-disrupting, world-changing intervention. This scene lays groundwork for the early church’s mission: the resurrection is not merely a private miracle; it compels movement, urgency, and communal witness. The women’s role also underlines God’s inclusive salvation—women are trusted with the crucial task of sharing the news first. Theologically, the resurrected Christ is active and present, even at a distance, prompting confidence that Jesus meets his followers where they are, calls them to report, and restores hope even in uncertain circumstances.

Today, believers can hear a similar call to witness when God’s work disrupts our ordinary plans. The verse invites us to hold intention—trembling awe at God’s power while embracing the joy of his new life. Practical applications: cultivate a practice of sharing good news in small, concrete ways (a note, a conversation, a gesture of grace) rather than keeping faith private. In moments of fear or grief, lean into the joy of what God has accomplished in Christ, letting that hope propel you to action—reach out to someone who feels alone, invite a coworker to church or a faith-based gathering, or offer practical help to someone in need. Like the women, begin with faithful steps of witness, trusting that God can use your ordinary words to carry extraordinary news.

Cross-References: John 20:2-18; Luke 24:5-9; Mark 16:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17; Acts 1:8