Devine Scripture

Matthew 28:5

What does Matthew 28:5 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 28:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 28:5 means

The angel, perceiving the women's likely fear at these astonishing events, immediately addressed them with the comforting command, "Fear not." He assured them that he understood their purpose—they sought Jesus, who had been crucified. This simple acknowledgement validated their grief and devotion, distinguishing their intentions from the terror of the guards. The angel’s words prepared them for the incredible news, inviting them to move past their initial shock to receive a message of hope.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, who hath been crucified.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, who hath been crucified.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And the angel said to the women, Have no fear: for I see that you are searching for Jesus, who was put to death on the cross.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And the messenger answering said to the women, `Fear not ye, for I have known that Jesus, who hath been crucified, ye seek;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And the angel answering, said to the women: Fear not you: for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And the angel answering said to the women, Fear not ye, for I know that ye seek Jesus the crucified one.

Context

Having described the guards’ terrified reaction, this verse pivots to the angel's reassuring words to the women. This direct address precedes the angel's pivotal announcement of the resurrection. The angel's comfort and understanding are crucial for the women, preparing their hearts to receive the astounding news that will follow, contrasting their fear with the joy and commission that awaits them.

v.4and for fear of him the watchers did quake, and became as dead men.

v.5This passage

v.6He is not here; for he is risen, even as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 14:27

    But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

  • Luke 24:5

    and as they were affrighted and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

  • Luke 1:30

    And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God.

  • Psalms 105:3

    Glory ye in his holy name: Let the heart of them rejoice that seek Jehovah.

  • Hebrews 1:14

    Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to do service for the sake of them that shall inherit salvation?

  • Revelation 1:17

    And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as one dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying, Fear not; I am the first and the last,

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