Scripture to Read: Matthew 27:57–66; 28:1–15
Our Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross. His body was removed from the cross, and Joseph of Arimathea got permission from Pilate to put Jesus’ body in his own tomb. In Matthew 27:62–66, we find the chief priests and the Pharisees in a meeting with Pilate. These so-called religious leaders were afraid that Jesus’ disciples would steal Jesus’ body, trying to prove that Jesus rose from the grave. Let’s not miss the fact that Jesus had told His disciples numerous times that He would rise on the third day, but the disciples seemed not to remember Jesus’ promise. But the chief priests and the Pharisees seemed to remember Jesus’ promise and were worried something might happen. So, Pilate gave the chief priests and the Pharisees permission to have guards secure Jesus’ tomb. But nothing was going to keep our Lord from fulfilling His promise. On the third day, the first resurrection morning, our Lord Jesus Christ completely defeated death and rose from the grave. The guards, who were to protect the tomb to make sure Christ’s body stayed in the grave (according to Matthew 28:4) “shook for fear of him and became like dead men” when an angel of the Lord showed up. No doubt, the resurrection happened, for God made this clear in 1 Corinthians 15:20–21, “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.” Happy Easter! He is Risen!
Challenge & Application
What stood out today as you read God’s Word and this devotion?
Who will you share the resurrection story with this week? Pray Colossians 4:3–6 and watch for those opportunities!
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!