What does Matthew 28:14 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 28:14 is a part of the narrative describing the events following the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In the preceding verses, some of the guards who had been watching the tomb where Jesus was laid come to the chief priests and report what had happened – the stone rolled away and Jesus' body no longer being there.

The chief priests, upon hearing this, devise a plan to avoid the spread of the news that Jesus had risen, as it would confirm his divine power and prophecy.

They decide to bribe the soldiers to say that Jesus' disciples came during the night and stole his body while they were asleep.

The verse in question is essentially a reassurance to the soldiers that should the governor (Pontius Pilate) hear of this fabricated story and seek to punish them for dereliction of duty, the chief priests would intercede on their behalf to prevent any repercussions.

This verse not only points to the literal cover-up being plotted by the Jewish leaders but also implies a deeper concern they have about the spread of Christianity.

The "deeper meaning" here can be explored as an early example of how powerful groups may react to narratives that threaten their authority by attempting to suppress or twist them.

Historical Context

Matthew 28:14 occurs at the dawn of the Christian era, during a time when the followers of Jesus were a minority and heavily persecuted.

The chief priests and Pharisees were the Jewish religious authorities at the time, and they had a vested interest in maintaining their religious and political power.

The governor refers to Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect of Judea, who had authority over the region and had earlier presided over the trial of Jesus.

The Sanhedrin (Jewish religious council) worked within the constraints of Roman oversight but held significant local power.

During this historical period, the relationship between the Roman authorities and the Jewish leadership was complex, often involving a delicate balance of cooperation and tension.

The Jewish leaders feared that claims of Jesus' resurrection would cause unrest that could threaten both their positions of authority and the uneasy peace with their Roman overseers.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives offer various insights into Matthew 28:14.

From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this verse illustrates the lengths to which the enemies of Jesus went to suppress the truth of the resurrection, revealing the spiritual battle between good and evil.

In liberal Christian thought, the verse might highlight the human tendency to resist transformative truths that are threatening to the existing power structure.

Furthermore, some theologians might see a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in this verse, portraying the widespread denial and rejection of the Messiah as was foretold.

Other views, such as the skeptical perspective, may interpret this as an indication that the narrative of the resurrection was contested from the start and cite it as evidence for the political manipulation of religious beliefs.

Practical Applications

One way to apply the teachings of Matthew 28:14 in daily life is to recognize the temptation to avoid the truth when it is inconvenient or challenging to our current beliefs and positions.

It can serve as a call to integrity, reminding individuals to stand for truth even when it is unpopular or might bring personal risk.

Additionally, it can offer a lesson in courage, reflecting the chief priests' lack of it, and inspire individuals to trust in doing the right thing rather than succumbing to deceit.

Cross-References

• Matthew 28:12-13: "And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers, Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept."
• Matthew 27:62-64: "Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again."
• Acts 4:1-3: "And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of Matthew 28:14 are "kosmon" (κόσμον), typically translated as "governor," referring to Pontius Pilate, and "peisomen" (πείσομεν), which means "we will persuade." The term peisomen indicates that the chief priests are confident in their ability to manipulate or influence the governor's decision, should the need arise.

The phrase "secure you" translates to "asfalísomen" (ἀσφαλίσομεν), representing an assurance of protection or safety for the soldiers if they were to follow through with the proposed deceit.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The plotting of the chief priests might be compared with other ancient myths and religious interpretations where authorities conspire to maintain their control when faced with miraculous or divine events.

For instance, in ancient Egypt, the Pharaohs would often propagate stories of divine support for their reign.

Similarly, in Greek mythology, the gods would sometimes deceive humans or each other to ensure their own power and status remained unthreatened.

Scientific Perspectives

There is minimal intersection of this verse with modern scientific understandings, as it relates to historical, theological, and moral considerations rather than empirical claims.

However, modern psychology may provide insight into the behaviors exhibited in this verse, such as cognitive dissonance experienced by those faced with evidence that contradicts their beliefs and the lengths to which they might go to maintain a consistent worldview.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted Matthew 28:14 within a wider understanding of the resurrection accounts.

Traditional commentaries emphasize the historical trustworthiness of the Gospels and see the actions of the chief priests as a testament to the reality of Christ's resurrection.

Contemporary biblical critics might analyze the socio-political motives behind the actions of the Jewish leaders and Roman authorities within the first-century Palestinian context.

Still, more progressive theologians could view this as evidence of the early church's struggle against its opponents to establish the truth of the resurrection.

Each lens offers a different understanding of the significance of this passage within the Christian narrative.