The resurrection of the crucified Christ... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.
Matthew 28:5

The resurrection of the crucified Christ "by the glory of the Father" (Romans 6:4) was accompanied by a demonstration of God's power: an angel rolled the stone away from the tomb, and the earth quaked, showing that God, not the political powers, had the final word. God resisted their power and confounded their thinking. That explains the fear of the guards, who "shook for fear" at the sight of the angel (v.4)

The women who came to the tomb were naturally also afraid. But the angel told them: "Do not be afraid He is risen." They were on the side of the One who had overcome death, and to whom "all authority has been given in heaven and on earth" (v. 28). Through the One raised from the dead God "will judge the world in righteousness" (Acts 17:31). He had borne their punishment on the cross, and through faith in Him they would not come into judgment. They already had a part in His resurrection life.

On which side of the empty tomb are we standing? With the guards whose duty was to see that Jesus' tomb remained sealed, so that life could go on as hitherto? Then there is only fear and terror for us, at the latest at the throne of the Judge of all the world, to whom the Father has given over the judgment.

Or are we on the side of the women seeking the crucified One and know Him as our Saviour? If so, whatever our present situation, the words "Do not be afraid" apply to us, too.

Today's reading: Jeremiah 22:13-30 · Luke 24:44-53