1 When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.
2 And they bound him and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate the governor.
3 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders,
4 saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.”
5 And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
6 But the chief priests, taking the pieces of silver, said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since it is blood money.”
7 So they took counsel and bought with them the potter’s field as a burial place for strangers.
8 Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day.
9 Then was fulfilled what had been spoken by the prophet Jeremiah, saying, “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him on whom a price had been set by some of the sons of Israel,
10 and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord directed me.”
11 Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You have said so.”
12 But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer.
13 Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?”
14 But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed.
15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted.
16 And they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas.
17 So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?”
18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up.
19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.”
20 Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.
21 The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.”
22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Let him be crucified!”
23 And he said, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Let him be crucified!”
24 So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.”
25 And all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!”
26 Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified.
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the governor’s headquarters, and they gathered the whole battalion before him.
28 And they stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him,
29 and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”
30 And they spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head.
31 And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him and led him away to crucify him.
32 As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross.
33 And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull),
34 they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it.
35 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots.
36 Then they sat down and kept watch over him there.
37 And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.”
38 Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left.
39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads
40 and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.”
41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying,
42 “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him.”
43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”
44 And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour.
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
47 And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, “This man is calling Elijah.”
48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink.
49 And the rest said, “Let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.”
50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit.
51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.
52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised,
53 They came out of the tombs after his resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many.
54 When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!”
55 There were also many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him,
56 among whom were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
57 When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who also was a disciple of Jesus.
58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him.
59 And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud
60 and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut in the rock. And he rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away.
61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb.
62 The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate
63 and said, “Sir, we remember how that impostor said, while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise.’
64 Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away and tell the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last fraud will be worse than the first.”
65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can.”
66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard.
The True Meaning of Matthew 27
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. Matthew, as a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the life and ministry of Christ. We witness the final hours of Jesus’ earthly life in this chapter as he is condemned, crucified, and laid to rest. The events that unfold here are of the utmost importance, for they mark the culmination of God’s plan for the salvation of humanity. We will see the betrayal of Judas, the trial before Pontius Pilate, the brutal scourging and crucifixion of our Lord, and the miraculous signs that accompanied his death.
Throughout this passage, we are reminded of the prophecies found in the Old Testament, such as the words of the prophet Isaiah, who foretold the suffering of the Messiah (Isaiah 53:3-5). We are also pointed to the significance of Jesus’ death, which serves as the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins, as described in the book of Hebrews (Hebrews 9:12).
Matthew 27:1-2
The verse in Matthew 27:1-2 states that all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans on how to have Jesus executed early in the morning. So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.”
This section of the verse is significant as it marks the moment when Jesus, after being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, is brought before the religious authorities of the time. The chief priests and elders, who were prominent figures in Jewish society, had conspired to have Jesus executed. This was a pivotal moment in the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion, as it illustrates the betrayal and rejection that Jesus faced from the very people who were supposed to be spiritual leaders and teachers of the faith.
The scene also highlights the political dynamics at play, as Jesus is eventually handed over to Pilate, the Roman governor. This shift from the religious to the secular authority underscores the collusion between the Jewish leaders and the Roman government in the crucifixion of Jesus. It is a stark reminder of how power and politics can corrupt individuals and institutions, leading to injustice and oppression.
This passage is a reminder of the prophecy in the Old Testament, particularly in Isaiah 53, where it was foretold that the Messiah would suffer and be rejected by his own people. Jesus, as the fulfillment of this prophecy, willingly submitted to this unjust treatment in order to fulfill God’s plan for salvation. It also serves as a lesson for believers to stand firm in their faith even in the face of opposition and persecution, knowing that God is ultimately in control and His purposes will prevail.
Matthew 27:3-10
Several key sections in Matthew 27:3-10 provide valuable insights into human nature, repentance, and the consequences of betrayal. The verses read: “When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. ‘I have sinned,’ he said, ‘for I have betrayed innocent blood.’ ‘What is that to us?’ they replied. ‘That’s your responsibility.’ So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. The chief priests picked up the coins and said, ‘It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.’ So they decided to use the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day. Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: ‘They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price set on him by the people of Israel, and they used them to buy the potter’s field, as the Lord commanded me.’”
Firstly, this passage shines a light on the tragic end of Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus. Despite walking with Jesus and witnessing His miracles, Judas allowed greed and betrayal to consume him. His actions resulted in the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus. Judas’ reaction after realizing the weight of his sin is significant. He experiences deep remorse, acknowledging his wrongdoing by stating, “I have sinned.” However, his response differs from genuine repentance as he directs his confession to the wrong recipients. Instead of seeking forgiveness from Jesus, he turns to the chief priests and elders, who callously dismiss his plea. This highlights the importance of true repentance, which involves acknowledging our sins before God and seeking His forgiveness and redemption.
The tragic end of Judas serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of betrayal and the consequences of prioritizing earthly gains over spiritual truths. Judas’ remorse did not lead to true repentance and restoration but rather to a tragic end, illustrating the devastating effects of allowing sin to fester unchecked. It is a reminder that the pursuit of worldly wealth or power at the expense of one’s integrity and relationship with God can lead to spiritual destruction.
Furthermore, the mention of the thirty pieces of silver and the purchase of the potter’s field fulfill the prophecy spoken by Jeremiah, emphasizing the sovereignty of God and His ability to bring about His purposes despite human failings and evil intentions. This highlights a recurring theme in the Bible where God uses even the darkest moments, such as betrayal and crucifixion, to ultimately bring about His redemptive plan for humanity. The Field of Blood, purchased with blood money, serves as a stark reminder of the price paid for Jesus’ betrayal and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made on the cross for the redemption of all humankind. Matthew emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan throughout history by connecting the events surrounding Judas’ betrayal with Old Testament prophecies. The fulfillment of prophecy underscores the divine orchestration of events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion and, ultimately, His resurrection, highlighting the overarching theme of God’s sovereignty and redemptive work in the face of human sin and betrayal. The narrative of Judas’ betrayal and its aftermath in Matthew 27:3-10 serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of betraying trust, the importance of genuine repentance, and the fulfillment of God’s purposes despite human failures. It prompts readers to reflect on their own actions, motivations, and responses to sin, emphasizing the need for true repentance, forgiveness, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 27:11-14
The verses in Matthew 27:11-14 depict a crucial interaction between Jesus and Pilate, the Roman governor who held the power to decide Jesus’ fate. Here, Jesus is brought before Pilate for questioning by the chief priests and elders, who were seeking to have him condemned to death. It is important to note that Pilate was a representative of the Roman authority in Jerusalem, and his decision regarding Jesus’ innocence or guilt had significant consequences.
When Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews, Jesus responds by saying, “You have said so.” This ambiguous reply reflects Jesus’ understanding of his divine identity and mission. Jesus was not just claiming a political title but asserting his sovereignty as the Son of God by acknowledging his kingship. This statement could have been perceived as a threat to the Roman rule, hence why Pilate was prompted to further question Jesus. Jesus chooses to remain silent in the face of the false accusations brought against him in the subsequent verses. This silence is in line with the prophecy in Isaiah 53:7, which describes the Messiah as a lamb led to the slaughter who did not open his mouth. Jesus exemplifies his submission to God’s will and his acceptance of the sacrificial role he was destined to play for the salvation of humanity by fulfilling this prophecy.
The interaction between Jesus and Pilate highlights the contrast between earthly power and divine authority. Despite Pilate’s position of authority in the worldly sense, he finds himself puzzled by Jesus’ responses and struggles to discern the truth. Jesus, on the other hand, embodies a different kind of kingship that transcends human understanding.
This passage serves as a reminder of the eternal struggle between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of the world. Jesus’ encounter with Pilate demonstrates the clash between spiritual truth and human perceptions of power. It challenges us to reflect on where our allegiances lie and to consider the nature of true kingship in the context of our own lives. This moment ultimately sets the stage for the pivotal events that unfold in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, fulfilling the redemptive plan of God for all mankind.
Matthew 27:15-26
Pontius Pilate offers to release a prisoner to the crowd during the Passover festival in Matthew 27:15-26. This section of the passage involves the crucial decision-making process leading to the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus.
Pilate, the Roman governor, was faced with a difficult decision. He knew that Jesus was innocent and had found no fault in Him, yet he was under pressure from the chief priests and elders who incited the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be freed instead. Barabbas was a notorious prisoner, a rebel and a murderer, so it was truly perplexing that the crowd would choose to release him over Jesus, who was known for His teachings of love and peace.
This moment illustrates the fickleness of the crowd and the manipulation by the religious leaders who had turned them against Jesus. It also shows the political maneuvering of Pilate, who, despite his wife’s warning in a dream, gave in to the demands of the people to avoid a potential uprising. The people, swayed by the instigation of the authorities, chose to have an insurrectionist released over the innocent Son of God.
This event highlights the theme of sacrifice and redemption present throughout the Bible. Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, willingly took the place of Barabbas, a sinner deserving of punishment. This substitutionary act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make on the cross for the sins of all humanity. The crowd unknowingly participated in the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation by choosing Barabbas to be released.
The story of Barabbas is a powerful example of how the grace of God operates. Barabbas deserved the punishment he was spared from, just as we deserve the punishment for our sins. Jesus, the innocent one, took our place so that we could be set free from the penalty of sin. This act of substitution reflects the greatness of God’s love and mercy towards us, offering us forgiveness and salvation through the sacrifice of His Son. Old Testament prophecies regarding the suffering of the Messiah are fulfilled in this account. Isaiah 53:3 describes the Messiah as “despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.” Jesus, in His willingness to be handed over to be crucified, perfectly fulfills this prophecy, demonstrating His obedience to the will of the Father for the redemption of mankind. This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the depth of God’s love and the extent to which Jesus went to secure our salvation. It challenges us to reflect on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice for us and to respond with gratitude and devotion in our own lives.
Matthew 27:27-31
The verses in Matthew 27:27-31 describe the scene where the Roman soldiers take Jesus, after Pontius Pilate condemned him, to the governor’s headquarters, also known as the Praetorium. The soldiers gather around Jesus, strip Him of His clothes, and put a scarlet robe on Him. They then twist thorns into a crown, place it on His head, and give Him a reed as a mock scepter. The soldiers mock and ridicule Him, kneeling before Him in fake homage, and then proceed to spit on Him and strike Him on the head with the reed. This brutal and humiliating treatment of Jesus was done in a cruel and degrading manner, intended to debase Him and show scorn towards His claim of being the King of the Jews.
This passage in Matthew is profoundly significant as it vividly portrays the suffering and humiliation that Jesus willingly endured as part of His sacrificial mission for the redemption of humanity. It underscores the depth of His love and the extent of His obedience to the Father’s will, even in the face of extreme physical and emotional torment. The mockery and abuse He faced reveal the depravity of human sinfulness and the rejection of the true King by the world.
This event was also a fulfillment of prophecy, as seen in Isaiah 50:6, which foretold that the Messiah would endure such mistreatment: “I gave my back to those who strike, and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard; I hid not my face from disgrace and spitting. Jesus identified with human pain and sorrow by enduring such humiliation and suffering, demonstrating His ultimate act of love and sacrifice on the cross. The crown of thorns symbolized the curse brought by sin (Genesis 3:18), but through Jesus’ suffering, He would ultimately conquer sin and death for all who believe in Him.
The imagery of Jesus being clothed in a scarlet robe and crowned with thorns carries deeper symbolic meanings. The scarlet robe was a symbol of mockery and false royalty, contrasting sharply with the true kingship of Jesus as the King of kings. The crown of thorns represented the curse of sin and the suffering that Jesus would bear on behalf of humanity. It also serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of the Fall in the Garden of Eden, where thorns and thistles were part of the curse (Genesis 3:18). The events described in Matthew 27:27-31 serve as a poignant reminder of the suffering, humiliation, and ultimate sacrifice that Jesus willingly endured for the sake of humanity. It invites us to reflect on the depth of His love, the significance of His obedience to the Father’s will, and the fulfillment of prophecies through His suffering. Christ ultimately points to the redemptive work on the cross, where He bore the weight of our sins and offered salvation to all who believe in Him.
Matthew 27:32-44
We read about the crucifixion of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology, in Matthew 27:32-44. The verse begins with Simon of Cyrene being compelled to carry the cross for Jesus. This seemingly inconsequential act holds profound significance. Simon, an outsider, is unexpectedly brought into the inner circle of Jesus at the most crucial moment in history. This can be seen as a metaphor for how Jesus came not only for the Jews but for all humanity, including the Gentiles like Simon. As we delve deeper into the passage, we witness Jesus’ journey to Golgotha, the place of the skull, where he was to be crucified. The act of crucifixion, a gruesome method of execution, was reserved for the worst criminals. Jesus fulfilled the scriptures and served as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity’s sins. The imagery of Jesus carrying the cross symbolizes his willingness to bear the burden of the sins of the world, demonstrating selflessness and love beyond measure.
The soldiers’ actions at the foot of the cross reveal the callousness and mockery directed towards Jesus. They offer him sour wine mixed with gall, a bitter drink that would only intensify his suffering. This harsh treatment reflects the contempt that the world often shows towards those who bear the message of truth and salvation. Jesus, in his humility, endured these taunts and insults without retaliating, fulfilling the prophecy of being a lamb led to the slaughter (Isaiah 53:7).
The religious leaders and passersby also joined in taunting Jesus, challenging him to save himself if he was truly the Son of God. Little did they realize that Jesus’ act of submission on the cross was the ultimate demonstration of his divinity and love for humanity. Jesus was actually displaying unparalleled strength and victory over sin and death in that moment of apparent weakness. This juxtaposition between human perception and divine reality serves as a powerful reminder of God’s ways being higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9).
The passage concludes with the two criminals being crucified alongside Jesus, both initially mocking him. However, as the crucifixion unfolds, one of the criminals has a change of heart and defends Jesus, acknowledging his innocence and kingdom. Jesus promises him a place in paradise that very day in response. This act of grace and mercy demonstrates Jesus’ redemptive power, offering hope even in the midst of despair and darkness. Matthew 27:32-44 encapsulates the central message of the gospel – Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross makes salvation and forgiveness of sins available to all who believe. It underscores the themes of love, redemption, and the transformative power of the cross, inviting individuals to reflect on their own response to the crucified Christ.
Matthew 27:45-56
Several important events take place during the crucifixion of Jesus in Matthew 27:45-56. The verse states, “From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ (which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’).”
This section is significant as it portrays a moment of intense suffering and anguish for Jesus. The darkness that covered the land symbolizes the weight of sin and separation from God that Jesus bore on the cross. His cry of anguish, quoting Psalm 22:1, expresses the deep loneliness and agony he felt in that moment. This moment illustrates the full extent of Jesus’ sacrifice, as he not only endured physical pain but also the spiritual weight of the world’s sins.
The mention of Psalm 22 in Jesus’ cry also emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. This connection highlights Jesus as the fulfillment of the Scriptures, emphasizing his divine purpose and role in God’s redemptive plan. Throughout the New Testament, there are numerous references to the prophecies that Jesus fulfilled, underscoring the credibility of his identity as the Son of God.
The verse continues, “When some of those standing there heard this, they said, ‘He’s calling Elijah.’ Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, ‘Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.’”
The misunderstanding of Jesus’ cry as a call for Elijah demonstrates the confusion and lack of understanding among those present at the crucifixion. This reaction reflects the broader theme of how Jesus was often misunderstood and rejected by many during his ministry on earth. Despite his teachings and miracles, there were still those who did not recognize him as the Messiah.
The offer of wine vinegar on a sponge to Jesus fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 69:21, which foretold that Jesus would be given vinegar to drink during his crucifixion. This detail further emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus’ life and death, underscoring the divine orchestration of events leading to his sacrifice for humanity’s salvation.
Finally, the verse concludes with, “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. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open.”
The tearing of the temple curtain symbolizes the opening of access to God for all people through Jesus’ sacrificial death. The curtain in the temple in the Old Testament separated the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelt, from the rest of the temple. The tearing of the curtain at the moment of Jesus’ death signifies the removal of barriers between God and humanity, foreshadowing the new covenant of grace and access to God through Jesus Christ.
The earthquake and splitting of rocks and tombs further emphasize the momentous nature of Jesus’ death and its impact on creation. These natural upheavals signify the cosmic significance of Jesus’ sacrifice, as his death not only brought salvation to humanity but also had reverberations throughout all of creation. This event underscores the transformative power of Jesus’ death and resurrection in reconciling humanity to God and renewing all of creation.
Throughout Matthew 27:45-56, the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice, the fulfillment of prophecies, the misunderstandings of those around him, and the cosmic significance of his death converge to illustrate the profound and transformative impact of Jesus’ crucifixion on both humanity and creation. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the centrality of Jesus’ sacrifice in reconciling humanity to God and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan throughout history.
Matthew 27:57-61
We witness the burial of Jesus after His crucifixion in Matthew 27:57-61, a crucial part of the passion narrative in the Gospel. This passage highlights the actions of a rich man named Joseph of Arimathea, who is described as a disciple of Jesus. Joseph goes to Pilate to request Jesus’ body for burial. It is significant that a wealthy and influential man like Joseph steps forward in this moment of despair and takes a stand for Jesus, despite the risks associated with openly supporting him. This act of bravery and compassion from Joseph portrays the theme of unexpected discipleship and the idea that God uses people from all walks of life to carry out His plans.
The fact that Joseph of Arimathea is the one to provide a tomb for Jesus fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:9 which states that the Messiah would be buried in a rich man’s tomb. This detail underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus’ life and death. The burial of Jesus serves as a poignant reminder of His humanity, emphasizing that He truly died and was laid to rest like any other person. This profound act of sacrificial love by Jesus solidifies His identification with humanity and highlights the depth of the salvation He offers to all who believe in Him.
Another figure in this passage is Nicodemus, who is mentioned in the Gospel of John as someone who initially came to Jesus by night seeking guidance (John 3:1-21). Nicodemus, along with Joseph, plays a crucial role in preparing Jesus’ body for burial by bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes. This act of reverence and care for Jesus’ body symbolizes a transition from secrecy and uncertainty to open discipleship and devotion. It is a beautiful illustration of how individuals can move from curiosity or hidden belief to outwardly demonstrating their faith, even in the face of adversity.
The women mentioned here, including Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, stand at a distance observing the burial. These women had been faithful followers of Jesus throughout His ministry and were present even in the most challenging moments, such as the crucifixion and burial. Their steadfast presence underscores the theme of loyalty and faithfulness amidst trials. The inclusion of these women in the narrative also echoes the frequent presence and essential role of women in Jesus’ ministry, despite societal norms that often marginalized them. The account of Jesus’ burial in Matthew 27:57-61 captures the profound significance of this moment in the redemptive story. It portrays the diversity of discipleship, the fulfillment of prophecy, the humanity of Christ, the progression of faith from secrecy to boldness, and the unwavering loyalty of followers. This passage challenges readers to consider their own response to Jesus, prompting reflection on whether we are willing to stand up for Him, care for His body (the Church), and remain faithful in times of trial, just as Joseph, Nicodemus, and the women did.
Matthew 27:62-66
A crucial event unfolds in Matthew 27:62-66 after the death of Jesus on the cross. Let’s break down this verse into key sections for a more comprehensive understanding.
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Setting the Scene (Matthew 27:62-63):
The verse begins by mentioning the next day after the crucifixion, which is the Sabbath day. The chief priests and the Pharisees gather before Pilate, expressing their concerns about what Jesus had said earlier – that he would rise again after three days. They remember this statement clearly which shows that even in death, Jesus posed a threat to the religious leaders due to his teachings about resurrection. -
Securing the Tomb (Matthew 27:64-66):
The religious leaders request Pilate to have the tomb secured until the third day to prevent the disciples from stealing Jesus’ body and claiming that He had risen from the dead. Pilate permits them to make the tomb as secure as they can. They do so by sealing the tomb and placing guards to ensure that no one can come and take the body of Jesus away.
Commentary:
This passage showcases the fear and desperation of the religious leaders who were trying to quell any possibility of Jesus fulfilling His promise of rising from the dead. Despite their efforts, this event further emphasizes the power and sovereignty of God. It also highlights the fulfillment of Jesus’ own prophecy about His resurrection, proving that nothing can thwart God’s plans.
The sealing and guarding of the tomb are ironic because they unwittingly confirm the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. This act intended to stop Jesus’ followers from creating a fraud actually becomes a testament to the miraculous event that was to come. It serves as a stark reminder that no human effort can thwart God’s divine plan – a theme that runs throughout the Bible.
Furthermore, this event points back to prophecies in the Old Testament about the Messiah’s resurrection. Psalm 16:10 says, “For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.” Jesus’ resurrection fulfills these prophecies, solidifying His identity as the promised Messiah. This passage from Matthew 27 not only showcases the fear and disbelief of the religious leaders but also serves as a powerful testament to the sovereignty of God and the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus’ resurrection. It reinforces the timeless message of God’s unchanging plan and His ultimate victory over sin and death through Christ.
After Matthew 27
We witnessed the betrayal and crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ in this chapter. Despite the pain and suffering He endured, His love for us never wavered. He made the ultimate sacrifice for our salvation as we reflect on the events that unfolded. We hold onto the hope that His resurrection brings, knowing that through Him, we have been redeemed and forgiven. We should carry the lessons learned from Christ’s unwavering faith and love as we close this chapter and prepare to turn the page. Let us inspire others by living our lives in accordance with His teachings, spreading love, compassion, and forgiveness to all we encounter. Our Savior guides us on our journey of faith and redemption as we keep our hearts open to the grace and mercy that flow abundantly.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.