Matthew 27:51 - 54
MSG - 51 At that moment, the Temple curtain was ripped in two, top to bottom. There was an earthquake, and rocks were split in pieces. What's more, tombs were opened up, and many bodies of believers asleep in their graves were raised. (After Jesus' resurrection, they left the tombs, entered the holy city, and appeared to many.) 54 The captain of the guard and those with him, when they saw the earthquake and everything else that was happening, were scared to death. They said, "This has to be the Son of God!
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
The saints who were deceased were those who had placed their trust in Jesus as the Jewish Messiah. They would have remained "asleep" until the establishment of the Kingdom of God on earth, with Jesus ruling from Jerusalem. However, as proof that there would be a resurrection of the saints who slept, some were brought forth from their graves and were seen "by many,." vs. 51-53. Recall that Lazarus was also raised from the grave (the tomb) at the command of Jesus. (John 11:43). None of the above received glorified bodies; none was caught up to Heaven. That was not their destination. These two events were presented as evidence of the Truth of God's Word! See Zechariah 12:10 & following.
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.