How Could One Bribe Affect Beliefs Forever? (Deception on Steroids!)
Treachery in high places is nothing new—it’s happened since biblical times.
Yesterday, I shared Matthew 28:1–7 about Christ’s resurrection. As Holy Week continues, I want to pick up where I left off. The photo above depicts the warm and gooey part of the story. The deception that followed is often overlooked when the Easter message is delivered. Hidden in plain sight is one of the most outrageous bribes in history, a twist in the resurrection story that must be mentioned.
Matthew 28:8-15 - New Living Translation
The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to give the disciples the angel’s message. 9 And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there.”
The Report of the Guard
11 As the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and told the leading priests what had happened. 12 A meeting with the elders was called, and they decided to give the soldiers a large bribe. 13 They told the soldiers, “You must say, ‘Jesus’ disciples came during the night while we were sleeping, and they stole his body.’ 14 If the governor hears about it, we’ll stand up for you so you won’t get in trouble.” 15 So the guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told to say. Their story spread widely among the Jews, and they still tell it today.
It’s sobering to realize that a single lie, bought with a bribe, helped shape a narrative that still blinds hearts today. The truth of the resurrection was met with a cover-up before it had time to spread. As we celebrate Easter, let’s not forget this piece of the story. The deception was bold—but the truth is bolder.
Christ is risen, and no lie can ever bury that.
I pray that you and yours are enjoying Holy Week and reflecting often on “Who” it’s all about.
God bless, and thanks for reading my post. I hope you’ll share it with someone who thinks Easter is about Bunnies and colored eggs.
very interesting