A Torn Curtain, Split Rocks, and Open Graves

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  04/15/22

Today we continue our look at the supernatural events that took place from the death of Jesus through the days following His resurrection.

The Curtain Tore

“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:50-51).

Upon Jesus’ death, the curtain in the tabernacle that separated the Most Holy Place from the rest of the temple was torn in half. The sacrifice of Jesus destroyed the barrier that separated the people from God. No longer do we need an earthly priest to approach God for us—we go straight to the Father through the Son, our great high priest (see Hebrews 4:14-16).

The Earth Shook

Another miraculous occurrence that happened during the death of Jesus was an earthquake. Matthew 27:51 tells us that, “The earth shook, the rocks split . . .” This was no small tremor, but a quake strong enough to tear open rock.

The Graves Opened and the Saints Arose
After the earthquake, some of the graves located at Calvary were opened: “. . . and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people” (Matthew 27:52-53). It wasn’t until after Christ’s resurrection that the saints arose as well. What a testimony to the resurrection power!

Prayer: God, thank You for the signs that displayed the significance of what was taking place in the death and resurrection of Christ. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“[His incomparably great power for us who believe] is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 1:19-20).