How does Psalm 22:17 foreshadow the crucifixion of Jesus Christ? Psalm 22:17 in Its Own Words “ I can count all my bones; they stare and gloat over me.” Snapshot of Suffering • David writes as a hunted man, picturing emaciation and exposure so severe that every rib is visible. • The onlookers respond with cold curiosity and mockery—no compassion, only gloating. Foreshadowing the Crucifixion—Key Parallels • Visible, Intact Bones – Jesus was scourged (John 19:1), leaving His frame exposed yet unbroken. – Soldiers refrained from breaking His legs, fulfilling “Not one of His bones will be broken” (John 19:36; cf. Psalm 34:20; Exodus 12:46). • Public Spectacle – “The people stood watching” (Luke 23:35). – Religious leaders and passers-by “were hurling abuse at Him” (Mark 15:29-32). • Prolonged Torture – Crucifixion stretched the body, making bones prominent and counting them feasible. • Mocking Gaze – Psalm 22:17’s “they stare” finds its echo when “the rulers scoffed” and “the soldiers also mocked Him” (Luke 23:35-36). Layered Prophecy across Psalm 22 • Verse 16: “They have pierced my hands and feet.” • Verse 17: Bones visible, crowds jeering. • Verse 18: Soldiers divide garments—a scene fulfilled in John 19:23-24. Together these verses give a composite portrait of the crucifixion a millennium before it occurred. Why the Detail Matters • Accuracy—The prophecy is fulfilled down to the preservation of Jesus’ bones, underscoring Scripture’s reliability. • Identity—It identifies Jesus unmistakably as the promised Messiah who suffers yet is ultimately vindicated (Psalm 22:22-31; Hebrews 2:12). • Assurance—Because every detail unfolded exactly as written, believers can rest in every other promise God has made. |
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