Matthew Henry Commentary Matthew 27:51-56

"And behold, the veil of the temple was rent in two from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake; and the rocks were rent; and the tombs were opened; and many bodies of the saints that had fallen asleep were raised; and coming forth out of the tombs after his resurrection they entered into the holy city and appeared unto many. Now the centurion, and they that were with him watching Jesus, when they saw the earthquake, and the things that were done, feared exceedingly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. And many women were there beholding from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee." — Matthew 27:51-56 (ASV)

The tearing of the veil signified that Christ, by His death, opened a way to God. We now have an open way through Christ to the throne of grace, or mercy-seat, and to the throne of glory in the future. When we properly consider Christ's death, our hard and rocky hearts should be torn—the heart, and not the garments. That heart is harder than a rock that will not yield, that will not melt, when Jesus Christ is plainly set forth crucified.

The graves were opened, and many bodies of saints who slept, arose. We are not told to whom they appeared, in what manner, and how they disappeared; and we must not desire to be wise above what is written. The awe-inspiring manifestations of God in His providence sometimes work in surprising ways for the conviction and awakening of sinners. This was expressed in the terror that fell upon the centurion and the Roman soldiers.

We may reflect with comfort on the abundant testimonies given to the character of Jesus; and, seeking to give no just cause of offence, we may leave it to the Lord to clear our characters, if we live for Him. Let us, with an eye of faith, behold Christ and Him crucified, and be affected by that great love with which He loved us. But His friends could give no more than a look; they beheld Him, but could not help Him.

Never were the horrid nature and effects of sin so tremendously displayed as on that day when the beloved Son of the Father hung upon the cross—suffering for sin, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God. Let us willingly yield ourselves to His service.