matthew 27:51-53

3 min read 07-10-2024

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 27, verses 51-53, we encounter a dramatic moment at the crucifixion of Jesus that carries profound theological significance. These verses state:

51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split
52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.
53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

Understanding the Context

To appreciate the weight of these verses, it's essential to understand the context in which they were written. Matthew's Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. In the preceding chapters, Jesus' death represents the culmination of His mission on Earth—the sacrificial Lamb. The events described in Matthew 27:51-53 directly follow His death, making them pivotal in understanding the significance of His crucifixion.

The Torn Curtain: Access to God

Symbolic Meaning

The tearing of the temple veil from top to bottom is highly symbolic. The veil separated the Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary of the Jewish temple where God's presence dwelled, from the rest of the temple. According to Jewish tradition, this area was accessible only to the High Priest and only once a year on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement).

By tearing the veil, the Gospel of Matthew illustrates a radical shift. Jesus' death signifies the end of the sacrificial system and the opening of a new way for humanity to access God directly. This is echoed in Hebrews 10:19-22, which states:

"Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body..."

Practical Implications

For Christians today, this means that believers can approach God without needing a human mediator. It emphasizes a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers.

The Earthquake and Resurrected Saints

Earthquake Significance

The earthquake following Jesus' death and the splitting of the rocks are often interpreted as a physical manifestation of the cosmic significance of this event. Nature itself reacts to the momentous occasion, signifying the gravity of Jesus’ sacrifice. Earthquakes in the Bible often symbolize God’s judgment or divine action, making this detail particularly impactful.

Resurrection of the Saints

The resurrection of "many holy people who had died" raises intriguing questions. Who were these individuals? Why did they wait until after Jesus' resurrection to come back to life? This event suggests that Jesus’ death and resurrection had implications not just for Himself, but also for those who had faith in God before His arrival.

Analysis of Impact

This phenomenon indicates that the resurrection power of Jesus extends beyond Himself to those who believe. It serves as a foretaste of the resurrection hope offered to all believers—an essential tenet in Christian eschatology. This theme of resurrection is echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, where Paul writes,

"But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep."

The implication here is not just a physical resurrection but also a spiritual rebirth that believers experience through faith in Christ.

Conclusion

Matthew 27:51-53 contains profound truths that resonate through Christian theology. The tearing of the temple veil signifies an open invitation for all to approach God, while the resurrection of the holy ones underscores the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice. Together, these elements illustrate a dramatic shift from the old covenant to the new, from a distant relationship with God to one that is intimate and immediate.

By reflecting on these verses, Christians are encouraged to deepen their understanding of their faith and the access they have to God through Jesus. This passage serves not just as a historical account but as a transformative reminder of the implications of Christ's death and resurrection for humanity.