52-53: Only Matthew records this event. Matthew was very Jewish in his presentation of the gospel, which explains why he would report this incident. Such a resurrection would be a token of the coming harvest, which was required for the Feast of First-fruits. Jesus was of course, the First-fruits. But, this small group would be a token of the resurrection now brought about by his death and resurrection.
It must be noted that these persons did not rise until after he rose, as is stated quite clearly here. The graves were busted at the time of the earthquake at this death, but the resurrections did not take place until after he rose. It seems that their appearance in the ‘holy city’ is a reference to Jerusalem.
Furthermore, it must be said that nobody can be certain who these persons were. Therefore, trying to guess would be only conjecture and unverifiable. The point of the passage is not who rose, but that this is done by the power of Christ’s resurrection.
Personal Journal Entry #12046
Prayer Journal Entry #12046
Daily Bible Reading: Numbers 3:1-4:49
Praise Journal Entry #12008: Heavenly Father, King of all creation, thank You for Your care for us. Your victory over evil is so clear and complete. You are not worried or scared, nor have You ever been. By your plan we can have the victory over death, hell, and the grave. Help me to carry my thanks beyond my heart to my lips. Help me to tell others of Your great plan of salvation for us. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.