What does Matthew 28:16 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 28:16 describes the action taken by the disciples after the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This verse indicates obedience as the eleven disciples went to a mountain in Galilee, which Jesus had previously designated as a meeting point.

The verse is quite specific in that it names the number of disciples, confirming that this occurs after Judas' betrayal and departure. The core message of the verse can be seen as a transition from witnessing the resurrection to becoming witnesses to others, a prelude to their commission by Jesus.

Historical Context

The verse lies at the end of the Gospel of Matthew, which is one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament.

The historically agreed-upon view is that Matthew was written for a Jewish-Christian community, which suggests that the text was intended to resonate with those familiar with Jewish customs.

"Galilee" was significant in Jesus' ministry, it's where he began his public ministry and where he promised to meet his disciples after his resurrection.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse underscores several key doctrines.

Firstly, the authority of Jesus in appointing the place of meeting reflects his divine guidance.

Secondly, the disciples' journey to Galilee symbolizes their faith and obedience to Jesus' instructions.

Thirdly, in some Christian traditions, this verse is understood to foreshadow the Great Commission, which is found in the subsequent verses of the same chapter, where Jesus sends his disciples out to make disciples of all nations.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Matthew 28:16 are numerous.

It teaches believers about the importance of obedience to Christ's commands, even when those commands may require stepping into unfamiliar or challenging circumstances.

The disciples' willingness to meet Jesus, despite their recent trauma, can inspire modern believers to pursue Christ even through times of confusion or doubt.

It also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and gathering in the name of Christ.

Cross-References

• Matthew 26:32: "But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee."
• Matthew 28:7: "And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you."
• Acts 1:8: "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, a significant term is "οἱ ἕνδεκα (hoi hendeka)", which means "the eleven." This number is significant as it encompasses the disciples remaining after Judas Iscariot's betrayal and suicide.

The specificity of the number reinforces the factual nature of the event.

Another term is "εἰς τὸ ὄρος (eis to oros)" translated into "into a mountain" which denotes a specific and often symbolic place, suggestive of a higher, closer proximity to God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The motif of a mountain as a place of revelation can be found in various religious traditions.

In the Hebrew Bible, mountains are often settings for significant events, such as Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.

In other ancient cultures, such as Greek and Hindu, mountains are also viewed as sacred and are often home to gods, serving as a bridge between the earthly and divine.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific perspective may analyze topographical features of the region of Galilee to identify possible locations for this mountain. Archaeology may provide evidence of first-century Jewish-Christian practices in the region that could validate the historical credibility of such gatherings.

However, science does not directly address the supernatural elements of the story, like the physical resurrection of Jesus.

Commentaries

Bible scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of this verse.

Some emphasize its role as a fulfillment of Jesus's prophecy.

Others highlight the disciples' actions as a model of obedience and trust in God's plans.

The mountain, to some, is not just a literal location but also a metaphor for a spiritual journey to a higher understanding or revelation.

Yet, all agree on its pivotal role in transitioning the narrative towards the Great Commission.