Matthew 28:12

12 And when they had come together with those in authority, and had made their decision, they gave much money to the watchmen, saying,

Matthew 28:12 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 28:12

And when they were assembled with the elders
Upon this the grand sanhedrim was convened together, which consisted of the chief priests, Scribes, and elders;

and had taken counsel
among themselves what steps to take to stifle this matter, that it might not spread and be believed by the people; they agreed upon this, as the best expedient, to bribe the soldiers to give a false account of it, as they did:

they gave large money unto the soldiers,
or "sufficient money"; they gave large sums of money, as were enough to satisfy the soldiers; they gave them whatever they would have; for though these men were very covetous, yet upon this occasion gave liberally; and that perhaps which were for the sacrifices, or for the repair of the temple, or for the supply of the poor.

Matthew 28:12 In-Context

10 Then said Jesus to them, Have no fear: go and give word to my brothers to go into Galilee, and there they will see me.

11 Now, while they were going, some of the watchmen came into the town and gave news to the chief priests of all the things which had taken place.

12 And when they had come together with those in authority, and had made their decision, they gave much money to the watchmen, saying,

13 Say, His disciples came by night and took him away secretly while we were sleeping.

14 And if this comes to the ruler's ears, we will see that he does not make you responsible.