Matthew 28:11-20

The Guards Report to the Chief Priests

11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city. They reported to the chief priests all that had happened.

12 When the chief priests met with the elders, they came up with a plan. They gave the soldiers a large amount of money.

13 They told the soldiers, "We want you to say, 'His disciples came during the night. They stole his body while we were sleeping.'

14 If the governor hears this report, we will pay him off. That will keep you out of trouble."

15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were told. This story has spread all around among the Jews to this very day.

Jesus' Final Orders to His Disciples

16 Then the 11 disciples went to Galilee. They went to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.

17 When they saw him, they worshiped him. But some still had their doubts.

18 Then Jesus came to them. He said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

19 So you must go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

20 Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And you can be sure that I am always with you, to the very end."