◄ Matthew 27 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Crucifixion Matthew 27 compels us to reflect on the enormity of Jesus' sacrifice and love. Amidst the agonizing scenes of betrayal, mockery, and crucifixion, the truth of God's redemptive plan for humanity emerges powerfully. May the chapter inspire us to appreciate Jesus' sacrifice, deepen our faith, and commit ourselves more fully to live in line with His teachings. Verses 1-10: Judas' Remorse and Suicide Judas, filled with remorse, returns the thirty pieces of silver and hangs himself. The chief priests use the money to buy a potter's field as a burial place for foreigners. Verses 11-26: Jesus before Pilate Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate. Despite finding no fault in Jesus, Pilate succumbs to the crowd's demands to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus. Verses 27-44: The Crucifixion Jesus is mocked and beaten by the soldiers before being led to Golgotha, where He is crucified alongside two robbers. Bystanders and religious leaders mock Him as He hangs on the cross. Verses 45-56: The Death of Jesus After three hours of darkness, Jesus cries out and gives up His spirit. Miraculous signs occur: the temple curtain tears in two, the earth shakes, and many holy people are resurrected. Verses 57-61: The Burial Joseph of Arimathea provides his own tomb for Jesus' burial. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary observe where Jesus is laid. Verses 62-66: The Guard at the Tomb The chief priests and Pharisees secure Pilate's permission to seal and guard the tomb to prevent Jesus' disciples from stealing His body and claiming resurrection. Matthew 27 is a heart-wrenching narrative of Jesus' last hours, showcasing the depths of His sacrifice for humanity. It includes the remorse and suicide of Judas, Jesus' trial before Pilate, His crucifixion, and burial. The chapter concludes with the chief priests and Pharisees securing the tomb to prevent Jesus' resurrection prophecy from being fulfilled fraudulently. Teaching Points The Betrayal and Remorse of Judas (Matthew 27:3-5) Judas, who betrayed Jesus, is filled with remorse and returns the thirty pieces of silver, acknowledging his sin. This highlights the destructive power of guilt and the consequences of betrayal. Jesus Before Pilate (Matthew 27:11-14) Jesus stands silent before Pilate, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of the suffering servant who did not open His mouth (Isaiah 53:7). His silence speaks volumes about His submission to God's will. The Choice of Barabbas (Matthew 27:15-26) The crowd chooses to release Barabbas, a notorious prisoner, over Jesus. This decision underscores the blindness of the human heart and the rejection of truth. The Mocking and Crucifixion (Matthew 27:27-44) Jesus endures mockery, physical abuse, and crucifixion, demonstrating His willingness to suffer for humanity's sins. His crucifixion is the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. The Death of Jesus (Matthew 27:45-56) At the moment of Jesus' death, supernatural events occur, including darkness and the tearing of the temple veil, signifying the new access to God through Christ. The Burial of Jesus (Matthew 27:57-66) Joseph of Arimathea courageously asks for Jesus' body and provides a tomb, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9 about the Messiah's burial. Practical Applications Reflect on Betrayal and Forgiveness Consider how betrayal affects relationships and the importance of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. Embrace Silence in Trials Learn from Jesus' example of silence and submission during trials, trusting in God's ultimate plan. Choose Truth Over Popular Opinion Stand firm in truth, even when the majority chooses otherwise, as seen in the choice between Jesus and Barabbas. Recognize the Cost of Redemption Meditate on the immense sacrifice Jesus made for our salvation and let it inspire gratitude and devotion. Access to God Through Christ Appreciate the significance of the torn veil, symbolizing direct access to God through Jesus, and approach Him with confidence. People 1. Jesus The central figure of the New Testament, Jesus is the one being tried, crucified, and resurrected in this chapter. He is referred to as "Jesus" (Ἰησοῦς) in the Greek text. 2. Pontius Pilate The Roman governor who presides over the trial of Jesus. He is depicted as reluctant to condemn Jesus but ultimately capitulates to the crowd's demands. 3. Judas Iscariot One of the twelve disciples who betrays Jesus. In this chapter, he experiences remorse and hangs himself. 4. The Chief Priests and Elders Jewish religious leaders who conspire to have Jesus put to death. They are referred to collectively as "the chief priests and elders of the people." 5. Barabbas A prisoner chosen by the crowd to be released instead of Jesus. His name in Greek is Βαραββᾶς. 6. The Crowd The group of people who demand Jesus' crucifixion and choose Barabbas to be released. 7. The Soldiers Roman soldiers who mock, scourge, and crucify Jesus. They are responsible for carrying out the execution. 8. Simon of Cyrene The man compelled by the soldiers to carry Jesus' cross. His name in Greek is Σίμων Κυρηναῖος. 9. The Two Criminals Two individuals crucified alongside Jesus. They are referred to as "robbers" or "criminals" in the text. 10. Mary Magdalene A follower of Jesus who witnesses the crucifixion and later the resurrection. Her name in Greek is Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνή. 11. Mary, the mother of James and Joseph Another woman present at the crucifixion, identified as the mother of two of Jesus' followers. 12. The Centurion A Roman officer who, upon witnessing the events surrounding Jesus' death, declares, "Truly this was the Son of God!" 13. Joseph of Arimathea A wealthy disciple of Jesus who requests Jesus' body from Pilate and provides his own tomb for Jesus' burial. 14. The Guards Soldiers assigned to secure Jesus' tomb to prevent His disciples from stealing the body. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central city where many significant events in the life of Jesus took place, including His trial and crucifixion. In Matthew 27, it serves as the backdrop for the trial before Pilate and the subsequent events leading to the crucifixion. 2. Golgotha "And when they came to a place called Golgotha, which means The Place of the Skull," (Matthew 27:33). Golgotha is the site outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified. The name "Golgotha" is derived from the Aramaic word for "skull," reflecting the shape of the hill or its association with death. 3. The Praetorium "Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company around Him." (Matthew 27:27). The Praetorium was the governor's official residence or headquarters in Jerusalem, where Jesus was mocked and beaten by Roman soldiers. 4. The Temple While not directly named in Matthew 27, the temple is implied in the tearing of the veil: "At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom." (Matthew 27:51). The temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and the location of significant events following Jesus' death. Events 1. Jesus Delivered to Pilate Early in the morning, the chief priests and elders of the people conspire against Jesus to put Him to death. They bind Him and lead Him away to Pilate, the governor (Matthew 27:1-2). 2. Judas Hangs Himself Judas, who betrayed Jesus, feels remorse and returns the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, declaring, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." After they refuse to take the money back, Judas throws it into the temple and hangs himself (Matthew 27:3-5). 3. The Chief Priests Buy the Potter’s Field The chief priests use the returned silver to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners, fulfilling the prophecy spoken by Jeremiah (Matthew 27:6-10). 4. Jesus Before Pilate Jesus stands before Pilate, who questions Him about being the King of the Jews. Jesus affirms, "You have said so," but remains silent to the accusations of the chief priests and elders, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of the suffering servant (Matthew 27:11-14). 5. The Crowd Chooses Barabbas During the feast, Pilate offers to release a prisoner, and the crowd chooses Barabbas over Jesus. Pilate washes his hands, declaring himself innocent of Jesus' blood, and the people accept responsibility, saying, "His blood be on us and on our children!" (Matthew 27:15-26). 6. The Soldiers Mock Jesus The soldiers take Jesus into the Praetorium, strip Him, and put a scarlet robe on Him. They twist a crown of thorns, place it on His head, and mock Him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" They spit on Him and strike Him on the head (Matthew 27:27-31). 7. The Crucifixion Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry Jesus' cross to Golgotha. Jesus is crucified between two criminals, and the soldiers cast lots for His garments, fulfilling Psalm 22:18. Above His head, they place the charge against Him: "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews" (Matthew 27:32-37). 8. The Death of Jesus From the sixth hour to the ninth hour, darkness covers the land. Jesus cries out, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" meaning, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" After crying out again, Jesus yields up His spirit. The temple veil is torn, the earth quakes, and the tombs open (Matthew 27:45-54). 9. The Burial of Jesus Joseph of Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, requests Jesus' body from Pilate. He wraps it in a clean linen cloth and places it in his own new tomb, sealing it with a large stone. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary sit opposite the tomb (Matthew 27:57-61). 10. The Guard at the Tomb The next day, the chief priests and Pharisees request Pilate to secure the tomb, fearing the disciples might steal Jesus' body and claim He has risen. Pilate grants them a guard, and they seal the stone and set the guard (Matthew 27:62-66). Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 53:7 Prophecy of the suffering servant, fulfilled in Jesus' silence before His accusers. Psalm 22:1 Jesus' cry on the cross, My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? connects to this psalm, highlighting His suffering and fulfillment of prophecy. Hebrews 10:19-22 Discusses the new and living way opened through Jesus' sacrifice, symbolized by the torn veil. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Jesus' Sacrifice Thank God for the incredible sacrifice of Jesus and the redemption it brings. Strength to Stand for Truth Pray for courage to stand for truth in a world that often chooses otherwise. Forgiveness and Reconciliation Ask for the grace to forgive those who have betrayed us and seek reconciliation where needed. Deeper Relationship with God Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the access we have to God through Jesus Christ. As we study Matthew 27, let us be reminded of the profound love and sacrifice of our Savior, and let it transform our hearts and lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Judas' remorse and suicide impact your understanding of guilt and forgiveness? 2. What can we learn from Pilate's decision-making in the face of public pressure? 3. How does Jesus' silence during His trial inspire you to respond when unjustly accused? 4. What can you infer from the crowd's choice of Barabbas over Jesus? 5. How does the crucifixion narrative influence your understanding of Jesus' sacrifice? 6. In what ways does the scene at Golgotha contrast with Jesus' kingship? 7. How does the tearing of the temple curtain symbolize the relationship between God and humanity? 8. What significance do you find in the supernatural events following Jesus' death? 9. How does Joseph of Arimathea's act of providing a burial place for Jesus inspire you in terms of sacrifice and risk for your faith? 10. How do the actions of the chief priests and Pharisees to secure the tomb reflect their understanding or misunderstanding of Jesus? 11. How can you apply the lessons from Jesus' trial and crucifixion to your life in the face of suffering or persecution? 12. What does Judas' end teach you about the consequences of betrayal? 13. How does the public's participation in Jesus' crucifixion reflect societal dynamics you've witnessed? 14. What can you learn from the women who remained with Jesus till the end? 15. How does Matthew 27 alter your perception of victory and defeat? 16. In what ways does Jesus' burial by Joseph of Arimathea show respect and reverence? 17. How can the religious leaders' fear of Jesus' resurrection prophecy apply to situations in life where people act out of fear? 18. How can the darkness that fell over the land inspire you in your dark times? 19. What does Jesus' cry, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" teach about expressing distress and despair to God? 20. How does Jesus' journey from crucifixion to burial impact your understanding of the journey from suffering to redemption? Topics 1. Jesus Delivered to Pilate In the early morning, the chief priests and elders conspire to put Jesus to death and deliver Him to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. This event marks the transition from Jewish to Roman jurisdiction, highlighting the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about His suffering and death. 2. Judas Hangs Himself Judas Iscariot, filled with remorse for betraying Jesus, returns the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders and subsequently hangs himself. This act of despair contrasts with Peter's repentance and underscores the gravity of Judas' betrayal. 3. Jesus Before Pilate Jesus stands trial before Pilate, who questions Him about being the King of the Jews. Despite the accusations, Jesus remains mostly silent, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of the suffering servant who "did not open His mouth" (Isaiah 53:7). 4. The Crowd Chooses Barabbas Pilate offers to release either Jesus or Barabbas, a notorious prisoner, to the crowd. Influenced by the chief priests, the crowd demands Barabbas' release and calls for Jesus' crucifixion, illustrating the rejection of the Messiah by His own people. 5. Pilate Washes His Hands Pilate symbolically washes his hands before the crowd, declaring himself innocent of Jesus' blood. This act reflects Pilate's attempt to absolve himself of responsibility, yet it underscores the Roman authority's role in Jesus' death. 6. The Soldiers Mock Jesus Roman soldiers mock Jesus by dressing Him in a scarlet robe, placing a crown of thorns on His head, and hailing Him as "King of the Jews." This mockery fulfills the prophecy of the suffering Messiah and highlights the humiliation He endured. 7. The Crucifixion Jesus is led to Golgotha and crucified between two criminals. The inscription above His head reads, "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews." The crucifixion is the central event of the Gospel, signifying the atoning sacrifice for humanity's sins. 8. The Death of Jesus Darkness falls over the land, and Jesus cries out, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" meaning "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46). This cry reflects Psalm 22 and signifies the weight of sin Jesus bore on the cross. 9. The Burial of Jesus Joseph of Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, requests His body from Pilate and lays it in his own new tomb. This act of devotion fulfills the prophecy of the suffering servant being "with a rich man in His death" (Isaiah 53:9). 10. The Guard at the Tomb The chief priests and Pharisees secure Pilate's permission to place a guard at the tomb and seal it, fearing the disciples might steal Jesus' body and claim His resurrection. This precaution sets the stage for the miraculous event of the resurrection. Themes 1. Betrayal and Remorse Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus and his subsequent remorse is a significant theme. Judas returns the thirty pieces of silver, declaring, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood" (Matthew 27:4). The Greek word for "betray" (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi) emphasizes the act of handing over or delivering up, highlighting the gravity of Judas's actions. 2. Fulfillment of Prophecy The events surrounding Jesus' trial and crucifixion fulfill Old Testament prophecies. For instance, the purchase of the potter's field with the thirty pieces of silver fulfills what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah (Matthew 27:9-10). This theme underscores the divine orchestration of events. 3. Innocence of Jesus Pilate's acknowledgment of Jesus' innocence is a recurring theme. Pilate states, "I am innocent of this man’s blood" (Matthew 27:24). The Greek term for "innocent" (ἀθῷος, athōos) underscores Jesus' blamelessness, contrasting with the guilt of those condemning Him. 4. Mockery and Suffering Jesus endures mockery and physical suffering at the hands of Roman soldiers. They dress Him in a scarlet robe, place a crown of thorns on His head, and mock Him as "King of the Jews" (Matthew 27:28-29). This theme highlights the humiliation and pain Jesus willingly endured. 5. Crucifixion and Death The crucifixion is central to this chapter, detailing Jesus' suffering and death on the cross. The narrative describes the darkness over the land and Jesus' cry, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46). The Greek word for "forsaken" (ἐγκαταλείπω, egkataleipō) conveys a deep sense of abandonment, reflecting the weight of sin Jesus bore. 6. Divine Signs and Reactions The supernatural events following Jesus' death, such as the temple veil tearing and the earthquake, signify divine intervention (Matthew 27:51-54). These signs lead the centurion and others to proclaim, "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Matthew 27:54), affirming Jesus' divine identity. 7. Burial and Guarding the Tomb Jesus' burial by Joseph of Arimathea and the subsequent guarding of the tomb by Roman soldiers highlight the concern of the Jewish leaders about the potential for resurrection claims (Matthew 27:57-66). This theme sets the stage for the resurrection narrative, emphasizing the measures taken to prevent any tampering with Jesus' body. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions