Catholic Bible Study Matthew 28:1-20
Dec 16, 2025
Dr. Michael Barber, a biblical scholar and Professor of Sacred Scripture, joins to explore Matthew 28:1-20. He emphasizes the significance of the dawn visit to the tomb, linking it to new creation themes in Genesis. They discuss the historic role of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection and Jesus' comforting message to the disciples. Barber highlights the importance of Jesus' appearance in Galilee and unpacks the Great Commission, showcasing Jesus' divine authority and the ongoing promise of his presence with the Church.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Resurrection As New Creation
- Matthew frames the resurrection as the dawn of a new creation, echoing Genesis and signaling real, cosmic renewal.
- Michael Barber and Tim Gray connect baptism to participation in that new creation, dying and rising with Christ.
Women As Credible First Witnesses
- The first witnesses to the empty tomb are women, which strengthens the historicity of the account given ancient prejudices about female testimony.
- Matthew's inclusion of women as primary witnesses argues against a fabricated legend designed to convince skeptics.
Elvis Example To Show Credibility
- Tim Gray illustrates how a fabricated story would avoid details that undermine credibility by imagining a shaky Elvis sighting tale.
- The point underscores Matthew's inclusion of unexpected details like initial non-recognition of Jesus.