SATURDAY EASTER VIGIL
62 The next day, on the Sabbath, the leading priests and Pharisees went to see Pilate. 63 They told him, “Sir, we remember what that deceiver once said while he was still alive: ‘After three days I will rise from the dead.’ 64 So we request that you seal the tomb until the third day. This will prevent his disciples from coming and stealing his body and then telling everyone he was raised from the dead! If that happens, we’ll be worse off than we were at first.”
65 Pilate replied, “Take guards and secure it the best you can.”66 So they sealed the tomb and posted guards to protect it.
Matthew 27:62-66
The Roman Empire (through Pilate) has been involved in the trial, execution and is now involved in the burial. The tomb has been “sealed” by Pilate’s authority and Roman soldiers have been assigned to guard the tomb. It would be suicide for anyone attempting to steal the body of Jesus–even breaking the “seal” would have been seen as an act of insurrection against Rome.
Why do you think Pilate agreed to this show of military force–especially after he reluctantly condemned Jesus to death by crucifixion? Only Matthew records this part of the story. Why do you think he felt it was important to include it in his gospel?
Each day (except Sundays) during Lent, we will post a Scripture for reflection on our theme, “Military Withdrawal.” Together, we will learn to walk in God’s ways of peacemaking and reconciliation. These posts are meant to stimulate conversation and interaction. Please post your thoughts and comments.
Tongue on Fire 