When you read the final chapters of Matthew it will be clear that Matthew was concerned about describing the events clearly and specifically. What he recorded could be checked out to verify it or render it incorrect. This was especially true during those early years following the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
When this gospel was written by Matthew many of the people who lived during the time of these events were still alive. They had seen Jesus hanging, crucified on the cross. The tomb where he was laid was clearly identified as one cut out of the rock by Joseph of Arimathea. He and Nicodemus buried Him there. The authorities worried that the disciples might steal His body from the tomb, so they had it sealed and guarded. It is historically clear and verifiable that Jesus died on a cross and was buried in Joseph’s tomb. Jesus predicted this over and over again as the day of His execution drew near.
These events disheartened the disciples and the other followers of Jesus. They were no doubt confusing to the majority of people living there at the time. The religious and political authorities were troubled and afraid that their best laid plans might backfire. They did what they could to keep from being embarrassed.
But a few were brought to believe in Jesus and His work of Salvation: the thief who died at His side, the centurion who oversaw the execution, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea. Many, unfortunately, refused to believe.
The question you need to answer is this, do you believe?
