Matthew 20:19

and will deliver Him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified. And on the third day He will be raised to life."

Study Bible

and will deliver Him over
The phrase "deliver Him over" comes from the Greek word "paradidōmi," which means to hand over or betray. This word is significant in the context of Jesus' passion narrative, as it indicates the act of betrayal by Judas Iscariot, one of His own disciples. Historically, this act of delivering over was a common practice in legal and political settings, where a person was handed over to authorities for judgment. In the divine plan, this act of betrayal was foreseen and foretold, highlighting the sovereignty of God even in the midst of human treachery.

to the Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" refers to non-Jewish people, specifically the Roman authorities in this context. The involvement of the Gentiles in Jesus' crucifixion fulfills the prophecies that the Messiah would suffer at the hands of both Jews and Gentiles. This inclusion of the Gentiles underscores the universal scope of Jesus' mission and the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles, as later expounded in the New Testament.

to be mocked
The act of mocking was a form of humiliation and scorn, often used by the Romans to belittle those they considered inferior or rebellious. In the case of Jesus, the mockery was not only physical but also spiritual, as they ridiculed His claim to kingship and divinity. This fulfills the Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which speak of the suffering servant who would be despised and rejected by men.

and flogged
Flogging, or scourging, was a brutal Roman punishment that involved whipping the victim with a flagellum, a whip with multiple thongs, often embedded with metal or bone. This severe physical punishment was intended to weaken the condemned before crucifixion. Theologically, Jesus' flogging is seen as part of His atoning sacrifice, bearing the physical and spiritual suffering for humanity's sins.

and crucified
Crucifixion was a method of execution reserved for the most heinous criminals and was designed to be a public spectacle of shame and suffering. The Greek word "stauroō" means to fasten to a cross. Jesus' crucifixion is central to Christian faith, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for sin and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Historically, crucifixion was a common Roman practice, yet in Jesus' case, it took on profound theological significance as the means of salvation.

On the third day
The phrase "on the third day" is a reference to the resurrection of Jesus, a cornerstone of Christian belief. The third day motif is significant in Jewish tradition, often associated with divine intervention and new beginnings. Jesus' resurrection on the third day fulfills His own predictions and the Scriptures, affirming His victory over sin and death.

He will be raised to life
The resurrection is expressed by the Greek word "egeirō," meaning to awaken or raise up. This event is the triumphant climax of the Gospel narrative, demonstrating Jesus' power over death and His divine nature. Theologically, the resurrection is the assurance of believers' future resurrection and eternal life. It is the foundation of Christian hope and the ultimate proof of Jesus' identity as the Son of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of this passage, who is foretelling His own suffering, death, and resurrection.

2. The Gentiles
Refers to the Roman authorities who would carry out the crucifixion, representing non-Jewish people.

3. Mocking, Flogging, and Crucifixion
The events that Jesus predicts will happen to Him, highlighting the suffering He will endure.

4. The Third Day
The time frame in which Jesus prophesies His resurrection, signifying victory over death.

5. Disciples
The audience to whom Jesus is speaking, who are being prepared for the events to come.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Jesus' prediction of His death and resurrection demonstrates the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, affirming the reliability of Scripture.

The Cost of Redemption
Reflect on the immense suffering Jesus willingly endured for our salvation, emphasizing the depth of His love and the seriousness of sin.

Victory Over Death
Jesus' resurrection on the third day is a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering hope and assurance of eternal life for believers.

Preparation for Trials
Just as Jesus prepared His disciples for His impending suffering, we too must be prepared for trials, trusting in God's ultimate plan and victory.

The Role of the Gentiles
The involvement of the Gentiles in Jesus' crucifixion highlights the universal scope of the Gospel, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' prediction of His death and resurrection in Matthew 20:19 strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

2. In what ways can understanding the suffering of Jesus deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice and love?

3. How does the resurrection of Jesus on the third day provide hope and assurance in your daily life?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jesus' preparation of His disciples for the trials ahead, and how can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual journey?

5. How does the involvement of the Gentiles in the crucifixion account expand your understanding of the inclusivity of the Gospel message?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 53
This Old Testament prophecy describes the suffering servant, which aligns with Jesus' prediction of His own suffering and death.

Psalm 22
This psalm foreshadows the crucifixion, with specific references to mocking and physical suffering.

Acts 2:24
Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost, where he speaks of Jesus being raised from the dead, fulfilling the prophecy of His resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Paul’s summary of the Gospel, emphasizing the death and resurrection of Jesus as foundational truths.

Mark 10:33-34
A parallel account of Jesus predicting His death and resurrection, reinforcing the consistency of the Gospel accounts.