Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 28:17

"And when they saw him, they worshipped [him]; but some doubted." — Matthew 28:17 (ASV)

Doubt about Jesus’ resurrection is expressed elsewhere , but only by those who have heard reports of Jesus’ resurrection without actually seeing him. This verse is therefore unique. Two difficulties must be considered.

(1) Does “some” refer to “some of the Eleven” or to “some others” in addition to the Eleven? The question is partly decided by one’s interpretation of v.10 (see comment). If the verb translated “worship” (GK 4686) here means not merely “kneel” but “worship” (see comment on v.9), then the “eleven disciples” (v.16) and the “some” probably constitute two groups; for doubt about who Jesus is or about the reality of his resurrection does not seem appropriate for true worship.

(2) But why was there doubt at all? If others than the Eleven are the ones who doubt (lit., “hesitate”; GK 1491), this does not solve the problem; it merely shifts it from the Eleven to other followers of Jesus.

Several solutions have been proposed, none of them convincing. Perhaps it is best to conclude that the move from unbelief and fear to faith and joy on the part of the larger group was for them a “hesitant” one. The Eleven, who according to the other gospels had already seen the risen Jesus at least twice, respond instantly with worship on the occasion of this new appearance, but some (others) “hesitated”—without further specification as to their subsequent belief or doubt. That is, Jesus’ resurrection did not instantly transform people of little faith and faltering understanding into spiritual giants. Another thing (not dealt with by Matthew) was necessary, namely, the enduement of the Spirit at Pentecost.