What is the meaning of Matthew 27:39? And Matthew 27:39 opens with a simple connective: “And.” • It links the mockery in verse 39 to the broader flow of events—Jesus already nailed to the cross, soldiers casting lots (Matthew 27:35-38). • This “And” shows that ridicule came in addition to physical suffering. It fulfills what Jesus foretold: “They will mock Him, spit on Him, flog Him, and kill Him” (Mark 10:34). • The ongoing nature of the abuse echoes Psalm 69:20—“Scorn has broken my heart and left me helpless.” those who passed by “And those who passed by” highlights ordinary travelers on the road outside Jerusalem, not just officials. • Crucifixions were staged along major routes so passers-by would see Rome’s power. John 19:20 notes the site was “near the city,” visible to many. • Their participation shows the breadth of rejection: rulers (Luke 23:35), soldiers (Luke 23:36), criminals (Matthew 27:44), and now everyday people. Isaiah 53:3 predicted He would be “despised and rejected by men.” heaped abuse The crowd “heaped abuse” (or “reviled,”) on Jesus. • Verbal taunts deepen His humiliation—Psalm 22:7-8 pictures exactly this: “All who see Me mock Me; they sneer and shake their heads, saying, ‘He trusted in the LORD…’” • Their insults fulfill the prophetic pattern of the righteous sufferer (Lamentations 2:15). • 1 Peter 2:23 points to Jesus’ response: “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate.” on Him The abuse was aimed “on Him.” • He willingly endured personal ridicule to bear our sin (Isaiah 53:4-5). • Galatians 3:13 reminds us He became “a curse for us,” absorbing wrath that rightly falls on sinners. • Even as venom fell on Him, He interceded for His tormentors (Luke 23:34). shaking their heads The gesture adds contempt to their words—nonverbal scorn. • Psalm 109:25 predicted, “When they see me, they shake their heads.” • Shaking the head can signal dismissal or triumph over an enemy (2 Kings 19:21). • Though they mocked, the very act verifies prophecy and proves Jesus is the promised Messiah (Matthew 26:56). summary Matthew 27:39 shows that amid unimaginable pain, Jesus faced widespread, prophetic, and personal mockery. Ordinary travelers joined leaders and soldiers in ridiculing Him, yet every insult fulfilled Scripture. Their scorn contrasts with His silent, sacrificial love, underscoring that He bore not only the physical cross but also the full weight of human contempt to secure our redemption. |
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