What is the meaning of Matthew 27:22? What then should I do Pilate’s opening words reveal the unavoidable dilemma every person faces when confronted with Jesus. • The governor senses a decision must be made—neutrality is impossible (Joshua 24:15; John 3:18). • His words echo the crowd in Acts 2:37, “Brothers, what shall we do?”—a recognition that encounter with Christ demands action. • Responsibility cannot be shifted; even worldly authority remains accountable to God (John 19:11; Romans 14:12). with Jesus who is called Christ Here the title “Christ” (Messiah) is spoken by a Gentile ruler, stressing Jesus’ true identity even in a hostile setting. • Matthew had already recorded Peter’s confession, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). • The title affirms the fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 9:6–7; Luke 4:18–21). • Rejecting or receiving Jesus is ultimately a verdict on God’s promised Redeemer (John 20:31). Pilate asked The governor’s question shows authority laced with uncertainty. • Pilate knows Jesus is innocent (Luke 23:4), yet political pressure weighs heavier than justice (John 19:12). • His repeated inquiries (Mark 15:12) display a conscience wrestling against fear of the crowd. • Earthly power stands small beside eternal truth; Pilate’s hesitation highlights the peril of sacrificing conviction for convenience (Proverbs 29:25). They all answered The unified shout exposes the danger of mob mentality. • The same city that welcomed Jesus with “Hosanna” (Matthew 21:9) now demands His death, illustrating the fickleness of public opinion (James 1:8). • Collective rejection had been foretold: “He was despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3). • Yet God would later turn many hearts—Peter later testifies, “You disowned the Holy and Righteous One” (Acts 3:14), calling them to repentance. Crucify Him! The climactic cry reveals human sin at its starkest and God’s redemptive plan at its deepest. • Though instigated by men, the cross was “by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge” (Acts 2:23). • Jesus willingly embraces the curse of crucifixion to redeem us (Galatians 3:13; John 10:18). • The cry that demanded death became the very means of life for all who believe (1 Peter 2:24). summary Matthew 27:22 captures a moment where earthly authority, public opinion, and divine purpose converge. Pilate’s wavering, the crowd’s hostility, and Jesus’ steadfast mission unveil the heart of the gospel: every individual must decide what to do with the Christ. Rejecting Him leads to judgment; receiving Him brings salvation. The cross, demanded in anger, was ordained in love so that sinners might be reconciled to God. |
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