Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
What does Matthew 28:20 mean?
This evangelist passes over other appearances of Christ, recorded by Luke and John, and hastens to the most solemn; one appointed before his death, and after his resurrection.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside Matthew 28:19-20 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Matthew 28:20
Amen. Lo, I am with you - That is, by my Spirit, my providence, my attending counsel and guidance. I will strengthen, assist, and direct you. This also proves that Christ is divine. If he is a mere man, or a creature, though of the highest order, how could he promise to be "with" his disciples "always," or at all? They would be scattered far and wide. His disciples would greatly increase. If he was "with them" always, he was God; for no finite creature could thus be present with many people scattered in different parts of the world.
Key words
- Teaching
-
Teaching them to observe all things,.
- observe
-
Teaching them to observe all things,.
- things
-
Teaching them to observe all things,.
Context in Matthew 28
Show chapter context
Matthew 28 belongs to the closing movement of the book, especially the section often described as passion, resurrection, and mission. Matthew presents Jesus as Davidic Messiah, new Moses, teacher of the kingdom, suffering Son of Man, and risen Lord who commissions the nations. Read this chapter with the wider themes of fulfillment, kingdom of heaven, and discipleship in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
Explore by topic
Passages on isolation, God's presence in solitude, the ache of being alone, and the promise that God does not abandon his people.
Passages on trusting God, receiving Christ, persevering without sight, and the relation between faith and lived obedience.
Bible verses about eternal life
Core passages on everlasting life, union with Christ, resurrection hope, judgment, and the promise of life beyond death.