Matthew 28

He Is Risen!

President Ezra Taft Benson said, “The greatest events of history are those which affect the greatest number for the longest periods. By this standard, no event could be more important to individuals or nations than the Resurrection of the Master. The eventual resurrection of every soul who has lived and died on earth is a scriptural certainty” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 15; see also 1 Corinthians 15:22–23).

While it is true that we could not be saved without Christ’s suffering and death, the Atonement was not complete until the Resurrection was accomplished. Furthermore, the reality of the Resurrection is the proof that Jesus is the Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. That being true, how important is the message of Matthew 28?

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 28

Matthew 28:1–8—Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–10

Matthew 28:16–20—Mark 16:14–18

Understanding the Scriptures

Matthew 28

Sabbath (v. 1)Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath, the seventh day of the week (The Sabbath was changed to Sunday in remembrance of the Resurrection.)

Countenance (v. 3)Appearance, especially the expression on the face

All hail (v. 9)Greetings

Persuade (v. 14)Talk someone into something, convince

Observe (v. 20)Obey, do

Matthew 28:17—“But Some Doubted”

For an example of one who doubted see John 20:19–29.

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Matthew 28.

1. Witnesses

   1. List all of the witnesses of Jesus’ Resurrection in Matthew 28. For each witness, write the verse or verses where their story is told and tell how they knew the reality of the Resurrection

   2. What is similar about what the angels told the women to do in Matthew 28:7, what Jesus told the disciples to do in verse 10, and what He told them to do in verses 18–20?

   3. How do you know that Jesus is resurrected? (see D&C 46:13–14; 76:22–23). What do you think the Lord expects you to do with your knowledge? (see 2 Nephi 2:8).