What is the meaning of Matthew 27:48? One of them quickly ran • The Gospel writers note that the crowd around the cross included soldiers and bystanders (Matthew 27:54; Luke 23:36). Mark 15:36 echoes the same immediate action: “Someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine…”. • The haste shows a sense of urgency in responding to Jesus’ cry “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (Matthew 27:46). It fulfills Psalm 69:21, which foretells that the Suffering Servant would be given vinegar. • While some in the scene mocked (Matthew 27:39–44), at least one person responded quickly—whether out of curiosity, duty, or a flicker of compassion, the text does not specify. and brought a sponge • Sponges were common among Roman soldiers, used for cleaning or as makeshift drinking vessels. Their availability near the crucifixion site fits the historical setting. • John 19:29 notes “a jar of sour wine was there; so they soaked a sponge in it,” reinforcing that the act was intentional and specific. • The sponge becomes a simple instrument through which Scripture is fulfilled, underscoring how even ordinary objects serve God’s sovereign plan (cf. Acts 4:27–28). He filled it with sour wine • Sour wine (BSB “sour wine,” some translations “vinegar”) was inexpensive refreshment for soldiers (Luke 23:36). • Jesus had earlier refused the narcotic-laced wine offered to dull pain (Matthew 27:34). Now, near death, He accepts this drink, aligning with John 19:28: “Jesus, knowing that everything was now accomplished, and to fulfill the Scripture, said, ‘I thirst.’” • Psalm 69:21 is again in view: “They gave me vinegar for my thirst.” The prophetic word is taken at face value and literally fulfilled. put it on a reed • Matthew specifies a “reed,” while John mentions “hyssop” (John 19:29). The reed likely provided length; John zooms in on the plant used, drawing a Passover connection (Exodus 12:22). • The combined details show no contradiction—merely complementary angles—highlighting both the practicality (a long stalk) and the symbolism (hyssop associated with sacrifice and cleansing). and held it up for Jesus to drink • Isaiah 53:12 speaks of the Suffering Servant numbered with transgressors, yet receiving a portion among the great. Even this modest act points to Christ’s exaltation amid humiliation. • Compassion and mockery mingle at Calvary. Some intended to keep Jesus alive longer to see Elijah intervene (Matthew 27:49), while God intended the moment to display His Son’s submission (John 10:18). • Jesus drinks, then declares “It is finished!” (John 19:30). The offered sour wine becomes the final earthly taste before redemption is secured. summary Matthew 27:48 captures more than a passing gesture. One person’s swift action with a sponge, sour wine, and reed fulfills precise prophecy, testifies to Jesus’ genuine thirst and suffering, and sets the stage for His triumphant declaration of completion. Every detail—speed, sponge, sour wine, reed, the raised drink—confirms God’s Word as accurate and intentional, drawing us to trust the One who thirsted so that we might never thirst again (John 4:14). |
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