Why was the inscription in Luke 23:38 written in three different languages? The Gospel Snapshot (Luke 23:38) “Above Him was posted an inscription: ‘THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.’” What the Three Languages Were • Hebrew (more precisely, Aramaic) – the religious language of Israel • Latin – the official language of the Roman Empire and its law • Greek – the commerce-and-culture language of the wider Mediterranean world Historical Reasons Pilate Used Three Tongues • Clear communication during Passover, when Jerusalem overflowed with pilgrims from across the Empire. • Legal formality: Latin made the charge “official” under Roman law. • Local relevance: Hebrew/Aramaic addressed the Jewish populace and leaders who had pressed for crucifixion (John 19:21). • Public notice: Greek ensured that travelers, merchants, and soldiers from every corner could read the statement without asking. • Political maneuvering: Pilate subtly mocked the chief priests by publicly affirming Jesus’ royal title, refusing to alter the wording (John 19:22). Theological Significance: God Declaring His King to the World • Universal proclamation—three tongues symbolized every nation, tribe, and language (cf. Revelation 7:9). • Divine irony—the cross, meant for humiliation, became a billboard of kingship (Colossians 2:14-15). • Sovereign orchestration—what Pilate intended as a final jest, God used to herald the gospel’s global reach (Acts 1:8). • Foreshadowing Pentecost—just weeks later, the Spirit would enable the apostles to proclaim “the mighty works of God” in many languages (Acts 2:6-11). Prophetic Echoes in the Old Testament • Psalm 2:6-8 – the Messiah installed as King, inheritance to the ends of the earth. • Isaiah 49:6 – “a light for the nations.” • Psalm 96:3 – “Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.” Practical Takeaways for Us Today • Christ’s lordship is not limited by culture or language—He is King everywhere. • God turns human schemes into stages for His redemptive message. • The gospel belongs on display in every language we can muster (Matthew 28:19). • We can speak with confidence; heaven’s authority stands behind the announcement, “Jesus is King.” |
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