Matthew 28:16-20 - hermeneutical key to the Gospel of Matthew

Abstract

This study analyses Matthew 28:16-20 as the hermeneutical key to the Gospel of Matthew. The text contains a narrative part about the eleven disciples meeting the risen Jesus in Galilee (vv. 16-17) and Jesus’ final words commissioning them to evangelize all nations (vv. 18-20). The location of Galilee symbolizes openness to the Gentiles, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy. The mountain setting represents an encounter with God, as in other key moments of Jesus’ ministry. The disciples’ worship yet doubt (v. 17) shows imperfect faith, inviting readers to mature belief. Jesus claims absolute, cosmic authority from God (v. 18) as the basis for commissioning the disciples to “make disciples of all nations” through baptism and teaching (vv. 19-20). This universal mission corrects earlier limitations only to Israel. Teaching them to obey Christ’s commands grounds the mission in Jesus’ ethical demands. His perpetual presence (v. 20) assures guidance despite uncertainty. Thus, the text presents a mission paradigm for readers: Christ – centered proclamation for God’s kingdom, not power; fidelity to Jesus’ original disciples; invitation to internalize divine daughterhood; and responsibility to embody values commanded by Jesus. This call for active discipleship awaiting the Parousia proposes to resolve doubt into faith.