Definition: And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Matthew 27:6. It’s a really important part of what happened after Jesus was crucified. Here's the explanation in simple terms: Basically, this verse describes what happened to the money and valuables left behind by Jesus after his death. “The chief priests took the silver pieces…” – This means that the leaders of the Jewish priests, who were responsible for handling the Temple’s wealth, took a significant amount of the coins and other precious items. “…and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury…” - They believed it was wrong to keep these valuables in a place where they could be used for something dark or evil – like a treasury. They thought it was a sign of disrespect. “because it is the price of blood.” - This is the crucial part. The priests interpreted this as if Jesus’ death was a sacrifice, a terrible and painful event that deserved to be honored with a great amount of money. They believed that by keeping the silver, they were honoring his sacrifice in a way that wasn't right – it was like celebrating something bad. In short, the priests thought the act of keeping the silver was a disrespectful and potentially dangerous thing because it was seen as a symbolic representation of Jesus’ death. Why is this important? This event is considered one of the crucial moments in the story of Jesus's trial and crucifixion. It highlights the religious tensions, the power dynamics between Jewish leaders and the Roman authorities, and ultimately, the plan for Jesus's final sacrifice to appease God and offer forgiveness. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Talk about the context of this event in more detail? Connect it to a bigger story or theme in the Bible?

Definition: And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:60. It's a really strange and dramatic part of Jesus’ final moments. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was crucified – that is, he died on the cross. After his death, he was placed in a tomb. His religious leaders planned to quickly remove him from the tomb, but Jesus cleverly arranged things. What Happened Next: “He laid it in his own new tomb…” He prepared a completely new tomb – a place of stone and carefully constructed – that wasn’t his original burial spot. “…which he had hewn out in the rock” This means he built a tomb specifically out of stone, using the rock as a foundation. It was a very deliberate and symbolic act. “And he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre…” He moved a large stone – a significant amount – directly towards the entrance of the Roman prison where Jesus’ body was buried. This was done with purpose, as if to warn someone or to protect the location of his body. “…and departed.” He left. What it Means Figuratively: This passage isn't just about physically moving a stone. It's a powerful symbolic representation: The Tomb is a Symbol of Death: The tomb represents the final resting place for Jesus after his death. The Stone Represents His Suffering: The large stone symbolizes the immense suffering and pain Jesus endured during his crucifixion. Leaving the Tomb Represents His Victory: Leaving the tomb signifies that Jesus had already won over death and is now in Heaven. In essence, it’s a vivid description of Jesus’ final act – he positioned himself in a new tomb to show his power and victory over sin and death. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular part of this verse in more detail? Give you a different perspective on the meaning of this passage?

Definition: And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:61. It's a really important part of what happens after Jesus’ crucifixion. Here’s the simple explanation: The Verse Says: “And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.” What's Happening? The Sepulcher: A “sepulcher” is a grave or tomb. It’s where Jesus was buried. Sitting Over Against: This means they were standing close to the burial site. Mary Magdalene and the Other Mary: This tells us there are two women present – one named Mary Magdalene and another named Mary. What Does it Mean? The verse describes these two women sitting over against (meaning very close to) the empty grave of Jesus. It’s a very specific and symbolic placement. Possible Interpretations & Significance: This is often interpreted as a moment of grief, reflection, or perhaps even a lingering presence after Jesus' death. Here are a few ways people understand it: A Last Look: It suggests that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there to see where Jesus was buried before he was taken down. It’s like they were taking a final look at his resting place. A Moment of Mourning: The fact that they are sitting "over against" the grave implies sadness and remembrance. A Witness: It could be that these women were witnesses to Jesus' death, and their presence is a sign of their grief and awareness. Important Note: The Bible doesn’t give us a detailed explanation of what happened between them. It’s more about the setting – the fact that they are nearby – and it sets the stage for the events to come. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a specific interpretation of this verse?

Definition: Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:62. It’s a really important part of what happened after Jesus was arrested and brought before Pontius Pilate. Here's the explanation in simple terms: “Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate” This means: "The next day..." – After Jesus was arrested and taken away, it wasn’t just a quiet moment. There was a gathering. "...that followed the day of the preparation..." – This refers to the days leading up to Jesus's trial. “Preparation” means Jesus had been arrested and brought before the authorities. "...the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate." – This is the key part. The chief priests (Jewish leaders) and Pharisees (a group of Jewish people who were very influential) gathered with Pilate, the Roman governor. So, what's happening? Pilate was the Roman governor at this point. The chief priests and Pharisees are Jewish leaders who were worried about Jesus and wanted to talk to him. They came together to meet with him to discuss what happened and potentially influence his decision. What does this tell us? This is a crucial step in the process that led to Jesus’s crucifixion. It shows that even though the authorities were concerned, they still had a chance to speak with Pilate before making a final decision about how to handle Jesus. In short: Pilate was meeting with the Jewish leaders to discuss what happened after Jesus' arrest. --- Do you want me to explain another verse, or perhaps delve deeper into a specific aspect of this passage? For example, we could talk about: The significance of the “preparation” What the priests and Pharisees were likely trying to achieve The overall context of the story within the Bible

Definition: Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:63. It's a really important and complex part of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus was being tricked by a devil (likely a demonic figure) who told him that he would rise again after three days. This verse is about knowing this truth and understanding its significance. Let's unpack the words: “Saying…” : This tells us Jesus was being spoken to by someone else – the devil. “…while he was yet alive” : Jesus was still living, experiencing life as we understand it. This is crucial because it shows the deception wasn’t happening before he died. “After three days I will rise again.” : This is the core of the message. Jesus predicted that after his death, he would return to life. What does this mean in a broader sense? It’s about His Victory: The devil's deception was a challenge to Jesus’ identity and power. Jesus’ victory over evil is fundamentally demonstrated through this promise. It’s about Hope & Redemption: This verse speaks to the hope Christians have – that even though Jesus died, He ultimately won and rose again to live forever. It’s a message of ultimate triumph over darkness and sin. Important Context (Briefly): The Gospels describe this event as Jesus being betrayed by Judas, who handed him to the authorities. This betrayal is a crucial step in the plan for Jesus’ resurrection. In short: This verse describes a moment of deception where Jesus knew he would be resurrected and it's a powerful reminder of his victory over evil! --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Connect it to a specific story or theme in the Bible?

Definition: Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:64. It’s a really significant passage that speaks about Jesus’ resurrection. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that Jesus’ death was not the final end – it’s not going to be forgotten. It's instructing the authorities (the disciples) to keep watch over the empty tomb until a specific time, and they shouldn't give up on this. Let’s break it down word by word: “Command therefore that…” - This is a very direct instruction from Jesus. He’s giving a clear command. “…the sepulchre be made sure…” – This means the tomb needs to be guarded and secured. It's crucial that it isn't left unguarded. “…until the third day…” – This is the key part. “The third day” refers to the 3rd day after Jesus’ death on Good Friday. It's a specific, timed deadline. “…lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead:” – This is where the message gets really powerful. It says that if the authorities don't keep watch, they could try to discredit it by saying Jesus has risen. They could twist it and claim he’s not truly dead. They would then try to deceive people about his resurrection. “…and so the last error shall be worse than the first.” – This is a really dramatic statement. It means that if the authorities fail to keep watch, their attempt to downplay or deny the resurrection will be even more damaging and unsettling than the original event of Jesus’ death. It implies a terrible consequence for those who try to diminish it. What does this mean in a big picture sense? This verse is about the power of doubt and deception. It's warning against trying to silence or minimize the significance of Jesus’ resurrection. It’s a message of hope – that even after death, his resurrection will ultimately triumph over evil and confusion. Why is this important? It shows the importance of vigilance: Jesus entrusted his followers with guarding his tomb, and he wants us to do the same. It’s a reminder of the potential for betrayal: It warns against attempts to discredit or deny the truth of Jesus' resurrection. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse has been interpreted throughout history? Talk about the context of this passage within the New Testament?

Definition: Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make [it] as sure as ye can.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:65. It’s a really important and slightly unsettling verse in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus is being arrested. Matthew 27 describes Jesus being taken to Jerusalem by Roman soldiers, accused of blasphemy and sedition. He's essentially imprisoned. Pilate’s Command: Pilate, the Roman governor, tells the Jewish people (who are present) that they need to “keep watch.” This means they need to be vigilant and protect Jesus. What Pilate is Saying - It’s a Bit More Complex: Pilate isn't saying "stay away from him." He’s actually saying something much more nuanced: “Make it as sure as you can.” This is a very direct command, but the meaning behind it is layered. Here are a few possible interpretations: "Protect Him with Your Life": This is probably the most common understanding. Pilate wants to ensure Jesus's safety – that he’s protected and doesn’t become a target for violence or harm. He needs to be prepared to defend him. “Secure His Position/His Role": It could also mean ensuring Jesus remains in his position as the leader of Jewish people, and that he is not removed from his role without proper consideration. The Significance - A Moment of Doubt & Power: This verse is incredibly significant because it reveals a moment of doubt and power within Roman leadership. Pilate is essentially saying: “You are dealing with a potentially dangerous situation. You need to be prepared, and you need to act decisively.” Important Note: The exact context and meaning of this passage have been debated throughout history. It's often seen as a subtle expression of the power imbalance between Roman authority and Jewish religious leaders. --- To help me explain it further or answer any specific questions you might have, could you tell me: What specifically are you curious about? (e.g., Are you wondering about the historical context? Do you want to know how this verse relates to other biblical stories?)

Definition: So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:66: “So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.” Basically, it means: They carefully and deliberately took care of the empty tomb. They reinforced it, making sure it wouldn't fall apart, and they established a guard to keep an eye on it. Let’s unpack it a little more: “So they went…” : This indicates that Jesus was crucified – he was being taken away from his followers. “…and made the sepulchre sure” : "Sepulcher" means a tomb or grave. "Sure" means secure and protected. So, they were taking extra precautions to ensure the tomb wouldn’t collapse or be damaged. “Sealing the stone…” : This is a key part. They used some kind of sealant or something to bind the stone of the tomb shut. It's like locking it in place. “…and setting a watch.” : They formed a group of people to stand guard around the tomb, ensuring no one entered or left without permission. What’s the significance? This action speaks to several important ideas: Respect for Jesus: The fact that they took such care shows respect for Jesus' sacrifice and his final resting place. Security: It highlights a crucial point of security – ensuring the tomb remained intact and protected from potential threats. In short, it’s about preserving the sanctity of Jesus’ tomb and demonstrating their devotion. --- Do you want to know more about any specific aspect of this verse? For example, are you curious about: The meaning of "sepulchre"? Why they might have set a watch? What it could mean in terms of the events leading up to Jesus’ death?