Matthew Chapter 27
When we read this chapter carefully, we find that Matthew includes so many details of even the thoughts of the characters, that it helps shape the temperature of the people surrounding the crucifixion.
For example, we learn in verse 18 that Pilate knew that (the Jewish religious leaders) were wanting to “get rid of” Jesus because they were envious of Him.
Being a cruel and ruthless man, he made a suggestion to release a “notorious prisoner,” a murderer. And the crowd took the bait, they cried out for Barabbas.
Let's Reflect
1. Before Jesus was even taken to Pilate, Judas changed his mind. He heard what the religious leaders planned to do, and he changed his mind. What did Judas do after throwing the money back at the leaders in the temple?
2. Notice that when the religious leaders called a meeting the next morning, they had already made up their minds that Jesus should be put to death. But they wanted the Roman government to make that death by crucifixion happen for them. They expected to get that very outcome when they brought Jesus before Pilate a second time. Pilate was known to be a man who was completely insensitive to the moral feelings of others. What question did Pilate ask Jesus that he had been told was the Jews' accusation against Him?
3. Pilate was used to hearing criminals beg for their life and claim innocence when he was pronouncing their death sentence. But Jesus didn’t do that, He gave no answer. What does the Bible say about Pilates reaction to the silence of Jesus?
“The ordinary residence of (Roman) procurators was Caesarea, on the seacoast, but it was their custom to be in Jerusalem at Passover time, with a detachment of soldiers, to watch over the public peace.” [Bruce]
4. What custom did the Roman government have during the feast of the Passover as a way of appeasing the Jewish people? See verse 15.
5. Pilate found no fault in Jesus, yet he went through with the cruel judgement of crucifixion to appease the crowd who were incited by the Jewish religious leaders. And so, a murderer named Barabbas was released in exchange for the life of Jesus. What did all the people shout out regarding His innocence? See verse 25.
6. An important detail is written in verse 26, a very painful punishment was inflicted upon Jesus prior to being crucified. This punishment was meant to get the criminal to confess to his crime, and then this punishment would end. We know that Jesus was innocent, so he endured this punishment much longer. What was the punishment?
7. As you read through the details of all that took place after that, notice how many different people inflicted pain on our Savior.
8. We find in verse 46 the saddest part – Jesus asked God why He had forsaken Him. We know that it was because of our sin that was upon Him. The people watching Him suffer on the cross, thought Jesus was calling out to whom?
9. What events took place at the moment of Jesus death and what events happened after His resurrection according to verse 52 and 53?
10. Why did they seal the tomb and set a guard outside of it?
Devotionals
