Observe and Learn: The Commission of Easter

 

As Holy Week unfolds and Easter approaches, my thoughts turn to the sacred themes of death, resurrection, comfort for the fearful, affirmation for the doubtful, and the commission to carry the truth to all nations. It is a week that both commemorates and compels — reminding us not only of what Christ did, but of what we are called to do in response.

A Closer Look at Matthew 28

This Easter, I found myself drawn especially to the final chapter of Matthew’s Gospel — chapter 28. This single chapter encapsulates a profound journey from sorrow to joy, from doubt to commission, from the grave to the Great Commission.

Matthew records that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary (the mother of James and Joses) came to see the tomb. Their testimony, preserved by Matthew, tells of an open tomb and a divine encounter — a vision of the risen Lord.

As they rushed to tell the disciples, Jesus Himself met them on the road. That moment — personal, intimate, and profound — is a powerful reminder that Jesus often reveals Himself first to those whose hearts are full of faith and love. It’s also worth noting that these were women — once healed by Jesus, now honored as the first witnesses of His resurrection. In doing so, Christ underscored the sacred value and voice of women in the unfolding story of God’s kingdom.

The Call That Follows

The chapter ends with Jesus giving a direct commission — not just to the remaining disciples, but to all who would follow Him. These final verses are not only sacred instructions but also a summary of our mission as believers:

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:
and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
— Matthew 28:19–20

What This Means for Us

From this final charge, we can extract three core responsibilities — timeless, personal, and world-changing:

1. Proclaim the Resurrection
   Jesus Christ has overcome the grave. Through Him, the plan of salvation is not just promised — it is fulfilled. This is the heart of the Gospel, and it is ours to share.

2. Extend the Gift of Baptism
   The ordinance of baptism — symbolic of cleansing, rebirth, and commitment — is offered to all for the remission of sins and entrance into a life with Christ.

3. Teach Christ’s Commandments
   Chief among them:

   • “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

   • “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” (Matthew 22:39)
     These two commandments are the foundation of a Christ-centered life.

A Promise of Presence

Christ’s final words in Matthew are not just a mission — they are a promise:

“Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”

We are not alone in this commission. His power, His comfort, His guidance — they remain with us, empowering us to carry on His work in every corner of the world and in every generation.

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Final Thought

This Easter, as we reflect on the empty tomb and the risen Lord, may we also reflect on our role in the continuing story. We have seen, through the eyes of Mary and the faithful, what it means to witness the resurrection. Now, we are called to live it — to go, teach, baptize, and love — with the eternal power of Christ who walks with us always.