Suffering of the King
(Matthew 26:2 – 28:20)
26:2-5 The Plot To Kill Jesus
After Two Days
After two days refers that two days after Wednesday would be the Passover.
Passover
The Passover was the first annual feast of the religious year celebrating when God rescued the Israelites from the Egyptians. The Israelites were told to sacrifice a lamb, and to put the blood on their doorposts. When the angel of death came over the homes in Egypt, the oldest Israelite male son was spared, but not the Egyptians. Then Pharaoh let the people leave Egypt.
However, Passover was a foreshadow of when God’s son would rescue the Israelites.
Crucified
Jesus predicts his death for the fourth time.
A Tumult
In the past, the Jewish people had rioted. Obviously, Caiaphas did not want the Romans to squelch a riot among the Jews, especially on a feast day.
Caiaphas
Annas, the son of Seth, served as high priest during the years AD 6 – 15, but was disposed. Each of his five sons and one son-in-law (Eleazar, Caiaphas, Jonathan, Theophilus, Matthias, and Ananus) served as high priest after Annas. The Roman prefect, Valerius Gratus, appointed, Caiaphas, the son-in-law of Annas, to serve as high priest during the years AD 18-36/37. The family of Caiaphas was very corrupt.
Ossuary of Caiaphas
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:2-5
2 “Ye have known that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man is delivered to be crucified.”
3 Then were gathered together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, to the court of the high priest, who is called Caiaphas,
4 And they counseled together that they might take Jesus by bait, and might kill Him.
5 But they were saying, “Not in the feast, that there not be a tumult among the people.”
26:6-13 Anointed At Bethany
Woman
When Matthew wrote this gospel, keeping the names secret was important because of persecution or maybe the central focus was on Jesus. However, John later wrote that the woman was Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha. Because Mary was a common name for females, we can easily mix up the different Marys in the gospels. She is not Mary Magdalene nor the women in the early ministry of Jesus that anointed Him.
Alabaster Jar
Perfume
Muron was a sweet oil, reserved for special events, and was made from olive oil, herbs, flower extracts, spices, and wine. This particular muron of spikenard was very costly. The price for Mary was 300 denarius. If the vineyard workers agreed to work for 2 denarius a day, then this muron of spikenard would have been worth 150 days of pay.
https://www.oliveoiltimes.com
/world/muron-olive-oil/25699
Disciples vexed
Although the disciples were vexed, John tells us that the instigator of the trouble was Judas Iscariot (Jn. 12:4-6).
Central Theme: Beautiful Work
Jesus understood the spiritual meaning of her actions that she was anointing him for his burial.
Astronomy
In Biblical Astronomy at sunset of April 1, 33 AD, the moon almost full, was in Betulah the Virgin (Virgo); Shabbatai ‘the restful one’ (Saturn) was at rest in Sartan ‘who holds’ represented by the crab (Cancer); Tzedeq ‘righteousness’ (Jupiter) was in Teomim the Twins (Gemini). The sun was in Taleh ‘lamb’ (Aries).
With the exception of the planets, this scene is displayed every Passover.
Hebrew name | Meaning | Constellation or Planet |
Betulah | virgin | Virgo |
Shabbatai | the restful one | Saturn |
Sartan | who holds – the crab | Cancer |
Tzedek | righteousness | Jupiter |
Teomim | the twins | Gemini |
Taleh | lamb | Aries |
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:6-13
6 And of Jesus having been in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,
7 A woman, having an alabaster jar of very costly perfume, came to Him and poured it on his head, as He is reclining at table.
8 And having seen, the disciples became vexed, saying, “To what purpose is this loss?
9 For this perfume might be sold for much, and been given to the poor.”
10 “And having known, Jesus said to them, “Why do ye offer trouble to the woman? for she performed a beautiful work for Me.
11 “For ye always have the poor with you;[1] but ye do not always have Me,
12 “For this woman having poured this perfume on my body, she did it for my burial.
13 “Amen I say to you, Wherever this Good News
should be proclaimed in the whole world, what she did will be spoken of also, for her memorial.”
[1] Deuteronomy 15:11
26:14-16 Judas To Betray Jesus
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot was one of Jesus’ original disciples. However, he was stealing from the bag used for the poor (Jn. 12:6).
Thirty Silver Coins
Roughly, the thirty silver coins were worth between $200-$300.
Judas Betraying Jesus
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:14-16
14 Then one of the twelve, who being called Judas Iscariot, having gone unto the chief priests,
15a said, “What are ye willing to give me, and I, I will deliver Him up unto you?”
15b And they weighed out to him thirty silver coins.
16 And from that time he was seeking an opportunity that he might deliver Him up.
26:17-25 A Galilean Passover
First day
The Passover began at sundown (Holy Thursday). The Galileans and the Pharisees would observe Passover beginning on the 14th day, and the Judaeans and priests would observe Passover at the end of the 14th day. Remember that the Jewish day began at evening and ended the next evening.
On the 14th of Nisan in the year 33 AD, the Galilean Passover began on Thursday evening of April 2.
While Matthew records the early Galilean observance of Passover, John records that the Passover was observed by the Jews later in the day (Jn. 18:28, 39; 19:14). This would be one reason that Lazarus and his sisters would not be mentioned again.
Unleavened Bread
Part of the Passover feast included eating Unleavened bread for eight days.
Ordered
This word συντάσσω = suntassō translated ordered or appointed, is a military word meaning to place under command.
Central Theme
Jesus predicts who will betray Him.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:17-25
17 And on the first day of the feast of the Unleavened
bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying to Him, “Where do Thou wish that we may prepare for Thee to eat the Passover?”
18 And He said, “Go away into the city unto such a one, and say unto him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near; I will keep the Passover to you with my disciples.'”
19 And the disciples did as Jesus had ordered them; and they prepared the Passover.
20 And late in the day having come, He was reclining at table with the twelve.
21 And as they are eating, He said, “Amen I say to you, that one of you shall deliver Me up.”
22 And being exceedingly sorrowful, they began to say to Him, each of them, “Is it I, Lord?”
23 And answering He said, He having dipped in with
Me the hand in the bowl, he shall deliver Me up.
24 “Indeed, the Son of Man goes as it has been written about Him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is delivered up! it was good him if that man had not been born.”
25 And Judas, who is betraying Him, answering, said, “Is it I, Rabbi?” He says to Him, “Thou have said.”
26:26-29 Institution of the Lord's Supper
Having Given Thanks
The word Eucharist comes from the Greek word εὐχαριστήσας, and means having given thanks.
New Testament
A new will or new covenant.
Last Supper
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:26-30
26 And as they were eating, Jesus having taken the bread, and blessed it, broke it, and was giving it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.”
27 And having taken a cup, and having given thanks, He gave to them, saying, “Drink ye of it, all;
28 “For this is My blood of the new testament, that for many is being poured out for remission of sins.
29 “But I say to you, I may not drink from now of this fruit of the vine, till that day when I may drink it with you anew in the kingdom of my Father.”
26:30-35 Peter's Denial Foretold
Cock or Rooster
Two reasons that a rooster wouldn’t be crowing in the middle of the night:
1) Chickens were forbidden in Jerusalem. “One may not raise chickens in Jerusalem, due to the sacrificial meat.” (Mishnah Bava Kama 7.7)
2) Chicken are sound asleep until the sun rises.
Three Times
The Greek adverb thrice, τρίς, is used after the verb to have sounded and before the verb thou shall deny. To which verb does it belong? Traditionally, the adverb has been translated along with the latter verb. However, I would say both.
Cock to Have Sounded
Although the Greek word, ἀλέκτωρ φωνέω, can be translated as a cock sounded, metaphorically it can mean a trumpet sounded. As stated above, cocks don’t usually crow in the middle of the night nor were they allowed in Jerusalem. In the Latin Vulgate, gallus cantet means a cock sings? Although gallus also means rooster or cock, the gallicinium referred to the third and sixth Roman watch when the trumpet was sounded. To which watch was Jesus referring? The third watch.
Roman Tuba
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:30-35
30 And having sung a hymn, they went forth to the Mount of Olives.
31 Then says Jesus to them, “All ye shall be stumbled
at Me in this night: for it has been written, ‘I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered.’ [2] 32 “But after my having risen, I will go before you to Galilee.”
33 And answering, Peter said to Him, “Even if all shall be stumbled at thee, I will never be stumbled.”
34 Jesus said to him, Amen I say to thee, That in this
night, before the cock to have sounded, three times, thou shalt deny Me.”
35 Peter says to Him, “Even if it may be necessary to die with thee, No, I will not deny thee.” In like manner, said all the disciples.
[2] Zechariah 13:17
26:36-46 Jesus Prays in Gethsemane
Gethsemane
Gethsemane means oil press. This is the beginning place where Jesus is pressed.
Two Sons of Zebedee
The two sons of Zebedee were John and James (the Greater). Their mother was Salome, who had petitioned Jesus for her two sons to sit on either side of Jesus in the future kingdom. They would have been of the same age as their uncle Jesus.
James (the Greater) should not be confused with his cousin James (the Less or Just).
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:36-46
36 Then Jesus comes with them to a place called Gethsemane, and says to the disciples, “Sit ye here,
until having gone away, there I may pray.”
37 And having taken Peter and the two sons of
Zebedee, He began to be grieved and to be in anguish.
38 Then He says to them, “My soul is exceeding
sorrowful, unto death: remain ye here, and watch with Me.”
39 And having gone forward a little, He fell on his face, praying, and saying, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: except not as I wish, but as Thou.”
40 And He comes unto the disciples, and finds them sleeping, and He says to Peter, “So, ye did not prevail one hour to watch with Me?”
41 “Watch and offer prayers, that ye may not enter
into temptation: Indeed, the spirit is willing, but the flesh weak.”
42 Again, a second time, having gone away, He prayed , saying, “O my Father, if this cup is not possible to pass from Me except I may drink it, Thy will be done.”
43 And having come, He finds them again sleeping, for their eyes were heavy.
44 And having left them, having gone away again, He prayed a third time, having said the same word.
45 Then He comes unto his disciples, and says to them, “Sleep further, and rest ye: behold, the hour has brought near, and the Son of man is delivered up to the hands of sinners.
46 “Rise, let us go: behold, he has approached who
is delivering Me up.”
26:47-56 Jesus Betrayed and Arrested
Short Sword
A μάχαιρα=machaira, or gladius, was a short sword carried by a foot soldier.
One of Those
The one of those with Jesus who cut off the ear of the high priest was Simon Peter (Jn. 18:10).
Servant of the High Priest
Who was the servant of the High Priest. Malchus (Jn. 18:10), whose name means king.
Twelve Legions
A Roman legion consisted of 3000 to 6000 infantry, and 200 to 400 cavalry.
So, twelve legions of angels could be anywhere from 36,000 to 72,000 angels.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:47-56
47 While He is yet speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with short swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people.
48 And the one delivering Him up gave them a sign, saying, “Whomever I may kiss, it is He: lay hold on Him.”
49 And straightway having come to Jesus, he said, “Hail, Rabbi; and kissed Him.”
50 And Jesus said to him, “Companion, wherefore are thou present?” Then having come to Him, they laid hands on Jesus, and seized Him.
51 And behold, one of those with Jesus having stretched forth his hand, drew his short sword, and having struck the servant of the high priest, took off his ear.
52 Then Jesus says to him, “Turn away thy short sword to her place: for all those having taken the sword shall perish by the sword.”
53 “Do thou think that I am not able now to call on my Father, and He will place beside Me more than twelve legions of angels?
54 “How then may the Writings be fulfilled, that so it may be necessary to happen?”
55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Did ye go forth as against a robber with short swords and clubs to arrest Me? I was sitting daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye did not seize Me.”
56 But all this has come to pass, that the Writings of the prophets may be fulfilled. Then all the disciples having forsaken Him, fled.
26:57-27:66 Condemnation and Death
26:57-68 Jesus Before Caiaphas and the Council
Open Court of Caiaphas
Caiaphas’ Mansion, known now as St. Peter’s church or Gallicantu (a trumpet sounded).
Attendants
These attendants attended the men-at-arms. The high priest would have had their own military police.
Sanhedrin
Sanhedrin is a court of an assembly of men who judged situations in ancient Israel. The Greater Sanhedrin consisting of 71 judges, acted as a Supreme Court in Jerusalem. The Lesser Sanhedrin of 23 judges in each city, acted as a local court.
Exorcise
The high priest had the authority to command the spirit to confess who it is.
High Priest Tore His Cloak
Although tearing one’s clothing was an accepted practice of grief, God had forbidden that the high priest should tear his garments (Lev. 21:10). When Caiaphas tore his outer garment, he had disobeyed the Law, and was at this point disqualified from serving as high priest that day.
Slapped Him in the Face
Although the word used for buffeted can also mean to slap, but the Greek word, ῥαπίζω = rapizo, can mean to slap in the face. This particular word was also when Jesus taught if someone were to slap you by their left hand on your right cheek, to turn the other cheek. The left hand was used for unsanitary uses, and to use the left hand to slap someone was an insult.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:57-68
57 And those having seized Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were gathered together,
58 and Peter was following Him from afar unto the open court of the high priest, and having entered within, he was sitting with the attendants, to see the end.
59 Now the chief priests, and the elders, and all the Sanhedrin, were seeking a false witness against Jesus, that they might put Him to death;
60 But found none: and of many false witnesses having come near, yet found they none. And at last two false witnesses having come near,
61 said, “This one said, ‘I am able to take down the sanctuary of God, and after three day to build it.'”
62 And having stood up, the high priest said to Him, “Thou answer nothing? What do these bear witness against thee?”
63a But Jesus was silent.[3]
63b And answering the high priest said to Him, “I exorcise thee by the living God, that thou may tell us if thou are the Christ, the Son of God.”
64 Jesus says to him, “Thou said: except I say to you, From now, ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the power, and coming upon the clouds of the heaven.”[4]
65 Then the high priest tore his outer garment, saying, “He blasphemed; what longer need have we of witnesses? Behold, now ye heard his blasphemy.
66 “What think ye?” And they answering, said, “He is guilty of death.”
67 Then they spat in his face, and buffeted Him; and others slapped Him in the face,
68 Saying, “Prophesy to us, O Christ, Who is he having slapped Thee in the face?”
26:69-75 Peter Denies Jesus
Denied
Peter had denied Jesus three times before the ‘cockcrow’. On his first denial, he says he doesn’t know what the maidservant is saying. On his second denial, he not only says he doesn’t know the man, but he accompanies his denial with an oath. With his third denial, he accompanies his denials with vehement curses and swearing.
Speech Makes Thee Visible
Peter’s Galilean accent gave him away.
To Curse Down
To curse down is to declare anathema. Who was Peter declaring anathema? Either himself if he had known Jesus or that Jesus himself was accursed! Peter is not just throwing out some swear words or expletives, but is adamant that there he has no relation to Jesus.
Ossuary of Caiaphas
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 26:69-75
69a And Peter was sitting outside in the court:
69b And a certain maidservant came to Him, saying, “And thou were with Jesus of Galilee.”
70 But he denied before all, saying, “I have not known what thou say.”
71 And he having gone forth to the porch, another maid saw him, and says to those there, “This one was with Jesus of Nazareth.”
72 And again he denied with an oath that, “I have not known the man.”
73 And after a little those coming to having stood by, said to Peter, “Truly, thou also are one of them; for even thy speech makes thee visible.”
74 Then he began to curse down and to swear, saying, “I have not known the man.” And straightway the cock crowed.
75 And Peter remembered Jesus having said the saying to him that ‘before the cockcrowing thrice thou shall deny me.’ And having gone out, he wailed bitterly.
27:1-2 Jesus Delivered to Pilate
Morning
FIRST HOUR: Dawn – 8 am
Morning sacrifice of 1st male lamb (Num. 28:4-8).
Jesus was bound and delivered to Pontius Pilate to be sentenced to death (Mt. 27:1-2).
Pontius Pilate
Serving under the Roman emperor Tiberias from AD 26-37, Pontius Pilate was the fifth governor of the province of Judaea. His time in Israel was rather turbulent.
He did not stay in Jerusalem, but just at Passover. Otherwise, his residency was at Caesarea on the coast.
Common Hall
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:1-2
1 And morning having come, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus so as to put Him to death:
2 And having bound Him, they led Him away, and delivered Him up to Pontius Pilate the governor.
27:3-10 The Death of Judas
Judas Iscariot
Judas had betrayed Jesus. His sin was no greater than Peter’s denial. Yet, Judas chose to hang himself rather than seek forgiveness.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:3-10
3 Then Judas, he having delivered Him up, having seen that he was condemned, repented, and turned back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
4 Saying, “I sinned having delivered up guiltless blood.” And they said, “What is that to us? thou shall see.”
5 And having cast down the silver coins in the sanctuary, he withdrew, and having gone away, he strangled himself.
6 And the chief priests having taken the silver coins, said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since it is the price of blood.”
7 And having taken counsel, they bought with them the field of the potter, for a burial-place for strangers.
8 Wherefore that field was called, ‘The field of blood,’ unto this day.
9 Then was fulfilled that was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, ‘And I took the thirty pieces of silver coins, the value of Him having been valued, whom by the sons of Israel did value;’
10 And gave them for the field of the potter, as the Lord appointed me.’[5]
[5] Zechariah 11:12-13, Jeremiah 19:1-13, 32:6-9
27:11-14 Jesus Delivered to Pilate
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:11-14
11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor questioned Him, saying, “Are thou the King of the Jews?” And Jesus said to him, “Thou do say.”
12 And in Him being accused by the chief priests and the elders, He answered nothing.[6]
13 Then Pilate says to Him, “Do thou not hear how many things they bear witness against thee?”
14 And He did not answer him not even to one word; so as to extremely marvel the governor.
[6] Psalms 38:13-14; Isaiah 53:7
27:15-26 Barabbas or Jesus?
Barabbas
Barabbas means son of Abba. Whether his first name was Jesus or not, is one of disputation.
While Matthew identifies him as a notable captive (Mt. 27:16), Mark identifies him as insurrectionist and a murderer (Mk. 15:7), Luke identifies him as making sedition and murder (Lk. 23:18-19, and John identifies him as a robber (Jn. 18:40).
Bema
Bema can be translated tribunal or judgment seat.
Wife of Pontius Pilate
Christian tradition says that Claudia Procula, the wife of Pontius Pilate, became a Christian. She was recognized as a martyr by the Greek, Coptic, and Ethiopian Churches.
Crucified
Crucifixion originated with the Persians, Carthaginians, and Macedonians and was later adopted by the Romans for the use of capital punishment of non-citizens. Therefore, Jesus was not a Roman citizen.
Pilate Washed His Hands
A red heifer was sacrificed for innocent blood of unknown murders. Pontius Pilate excuses himself from the murder of Jesus, which is a stretch since he allowed it, and the multitude demanded it. However, the unknown murderer would be Satan. Not only was Jesus the innocent blood shed, He became the sacrificial red heifer for himself and all innocent blood that was shed.
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, or Day of Atonement, is celebrated in the Jewish month of Tishri. This holy day is a day of repentance, and is a foreshadow of one of many sacrifices that Jesus Christ represents.
As stated earlier, Caiaphas was unfit to serve as High Priest due to tearing his garment. Besides, the Jews could not legally condemn someone to death. So, who officiated as “high priest” in the condemnation of Jesus, but Pontius Pilate.
Three Sacrifices
Besides being the Passover lamb, Jesus was the red heifer and the sacrificial goat.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:15-26
15 And at the feast the governor had been accustomed to release one to the people, a captive, whom they wished.
16 And they were holding then a notable captive, called Barabbas.
17 They therefore having been gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom wish ye I should release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?”
18 For he had known that through envy they delivered Him up.
19 And as he was sitting down on the Bema, his wife sent to him, saying, “Have nothing to thee and that righteous One: for many things did I suffer today in a dream because of Him.”
20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask for Barabbas, and should destroy Jesus.
21 And answering, the governor said to them, “Which of the two do ye wish that I should release to you?” And they said, “Barabbas.”
22 Pilate says to them, “What then should I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all say to him, “Let Him be crucified.”
23 And the governor said, “Why, for what evil die He?” And they kept crying out excessively, saying, “Let Him be crucified.”
24 And Pilate having seen that nothing is of use, but rather a tumult is begun, having taken water, he washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am guiltless of the blood of this righteous One: ye, ye shall to it.”[7]
25 And answering, all the people said, “His blood be on us, and on our children.”[7]
26 Then he released to them Barabbas: and having flogged Jesus, he delivered Him up that He should be crucified.
[7] Deuteronomy 19:10
|
TWO GOATS |
|
|
LEVITICUS |
PONTIUS PILATE, JESUS, AND BARABBAS |
|
The high priest would present two goats
before the Tent of Meeting where judgment decisions were made (Lev. 16:7; Ex.
33:7-10). |
Likewise, the governor Pontius Pilate
presents Jesus and Barabbas before the Bema. (Mt. 27:15-20) |
|
The high priest would cast lots for the two
goats: one for the Lord, and the other for the scapegoat (Lev. 16:8). |
Pontius Pilate asks the crowd to make a
decision of whom to release: Barabbas or Jesus. (Mt. 27:21) |
|
The goat on which the Lord’s lot fell was
to be sacrificed as a sin offering (Lev. 16:9). |
The people, urged by the priests and
elders, chose Jesus to be crucified. (Mt.27:22-23) |
|
The goat on which the lot fell was to be
the scapegoat presented alive before the Lord to be used for making
atonement, and then let go for a scapegoat into the wilderness. (Lev. 16:10). |
The people chose Barabbas, a man of sin and
a son of the devil. Then Pontius Pilate releases Barabbas unto
them. (Mt. 27:26) |
|
Then the high priest would kill the goat of
the sin offering, that is for the people, sprinkling it upon the mercy seat
making an atonement. (Lev. 16:15-17). |
After Pontius
Pilate has Jesus scourged, Pilate delivers Jesus to be crucified. Christ is
making atonement for the sins of the world. (Mt. 27:26) |
|
The priest would make atonement for the
altar, and would sprinkle the blood upon it seven times, cleansing it, and
hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel (Lev. 16:18-19). |
1) At Gethsemane, His sweat becomes great drops of
blood falling down to the ground (Lk. 22:44) 2) Internal bleeding (Is. 53:5, Micah 5:1, Mt.
26:63-64) 3) His beard is ripped out (Is. 50:5-6) 4) Jesus is whipped (Ps. 129:3, Is. 50:6, Is. 53:5, Mt.
27:26, Mk. 15:15, Jn 19:1, 1 Pet. 2:24 5) The crown of thorn causes bleeding from the head
(Mt. 27:29, Mk 15:17, Jn 19:2) 6) His hands and feet are nailed to the cross (Mt.
27:35) 7) His side is pierced (Jn. 19:34) |
|
When he had made an end of reconciling the
holy place, the tabernacle, and the altar, he would bring the live goat,
making confession of iniquities and transgressions upon its head, and sending
it away into the wilderness. The goat would bear all the iniquities unto a
land uninhabited, and he would let go the goat into the wilderness. (Lev.
16:20-22) |
Barabbas is the scapegoat that will be set
free to go wild, while Jesus becomes the sacrificial goat for the sin
offering. |
|
The priest would wash his flesh and his
clothes. (Lev. 16:24, 26) The elders would wash their hands of an
innocent murder. (Deut. 21:6-8) |
Pontius Pilate washes his hands of murder,
although prior to the death of Jesus. This was a Jewish custom, not a Roman
custom. |
27:27-37 Jesus Is Mocked
Common Hall, Praetorium
The Praetorium, common hall, is located at the Tower of David.
Cohort
A Roman cohort generally consisted of 480 soldiers.
Scarlet Military Cloak
Matthew states that the soldiers put on Jesus a scarlet military cloak. Mark says they clothed him with purple. John says they put on him a purple cloak. Where would the soldiers have obtained an expensive purple cloak? Purple cloth was expensive and used by the rich. In their mockery, the soldiers used a red cloak to simulate a purple robe.
Simon the Cyrenian
Cyrene was in Northern Africa, in eastern Libya. During the reign of Ptolemy I Soter (323-285), 100,000 Jews the Judaean Jews were forced to settle there. Simon was probably visiting Jerusalem because of the Passover. As a result, Simon converted to the Christian faith. His two sons later became bishops.
Golgotha, Place of a Skull
Golgotha, the Place of a Skull, was located outside the city walls of Jerusalem at the present site of the Church of the Sepulchre at the time of Jesus’ crucifixion. When Hadrian Agrippa (AD 41-44) built the third wall around the newly settled northern district, this area became part of the city limits.
In AD 130-135, Hadrian erected the Temple of Jupiter/Venus to bury the tomb of Jesus’ burial.
Vinegar Mixed With Gall
Vinegar mixed with gall was a drug often given to those being crucified. Gall can mean myrrh or wormwood.
Crucified
THIRD HOUR: 9-10 am
Morning prayer time begins (Acts 2:15).
Jesus is crucified (Mk. 15:25).
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:27-37
27 Then the soldiers of the governor having taken Jesus into the Common Hall, gathered to Him all the cohort.
28 And having stripped him, they put around Him a scarlet military cloak.
29 And having platted a crown of thorns, they put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand: and having knelt down before Him, they mocked Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”
30 And having spit on him, they took the reed, and kept striking Him on the His head.
31 And when they had mocked Him, they took off from Him the military cloak, and put on Him his own garments, and led Him away to crucify Him.
32 And coming forth, they found a Cyrenian man, by name Simon: they pressed him into service that he might bear His cross.
33 And having come to a place called Golgotha, that is called, Place of a Skull,
34 They gave Him to drink vinegar mixed with gall:[8] and having tasted, He wished not to drink.
35 And having crucified Him, they divided his garments, casting a lot: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, ‘They divided my garments to themselves, and upon my clothing they cast a lot.’[8]
36 And sitting down, they were watching Him there;
37 And they put up over His head His accusation written, ‘THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.’
[8] Psalms 22:12-18
27:38-44 Blasphemy, Mockery, and Reproach
Two Robbers
One of the two robbers did repent, but it is not recorded in Matthew.
Yehohanon ben Hagkol
Yehohanon ben Hagkol’s heel is an archaeological evidence of one crucified as indicated by his heel bone.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:38-44
38 Then two robbers are crucified with Him, one on the right hand, and one on the left.
39 And those passing by were blaspheming Him, moving their heads,
40 And saying, “Thou destroying the sanctuary, and building it in three days, save Thyself! If Thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.”
41 And in like manner also the chief priests mocking, with the scribes and elders, were saying,
42 “He saved others; He is not able save to Himself! If He be King of Israel, let Him come down now from the cross, and we will believe Him.
43 “He has trusted on God; let Him deliver Him now, if he wishes Him: for He said that, ‘I AM the Son of God.'”
44 And in like manner, even the robbers, having been crucified with Him, kept reproaching Him.
27:45-50 The Death of Jesus
Sixth Hour
SIXTH HOUR: Noon-1 pm
2nd lamb drinks from a gold cup and remains near the altar until it is sacrificed (Mishnah: Tamid, 3:4); Individual prayers begin (Acts 10:9).
Jesus is given vinegar to drink (Mt. 27:48);
Darkness was over the land (Mt 27:45).
Darkness
No one knows what caused the darkness. There is no ancient writings of it occurring, nor do we know if the darkness was just in Jerusalem. The only similar account is when Abraham offered his sacrifice and darkness fell upon him (Gen. 15:12).
Solar eclipses happen at New Moon not at Full Moon when Passover happens. Only a small part of the southern Pacific Ocean experienced the Solar Eclipse of March 19, 33 AD, two weeks earlier. Thus, a solar eclipse cannot explain the darkness.
Ninth Hour
NINTH HOUR: 3-4 pm
Evening sacrifice of 2nd male lamb (Antiquities of the Jews 14.4.3; second hour of prayer (Acts 3:1, 10:3, 30).
Jesus dies (Mt. 27:46).
Eli, Eli, Lama Sabachthani
Jesus is speaking Aramaic.
Forsake Me?
Did God forsake Jesus by not being able to look on the sins of the world that He carried? No. But in Jesus’ humanity, it sure felt like it.
The question of Ps. 22:1, lies in the Epistle of Heb. 4:15, which tells us that we have a High Priest, Jesus Christ, who was touched with the same feelings of our infirmities. Have we never felt like God has forsaken us? We know that our Savior has already experienced that feeling of being forsaken because of being made to be sin for us.
A second reason that God did not forsake Jesus while on the cross is understood in the sacrifices. A priest took special care in handling the sacrificial animal, because of its worth in terms of its life being given for the sin of a person or people. A priest would not have turned his back on the sacrificial animal during the ceremony. Therefore, would the Father turn his back on the Messiah, the ultimate sacrifice?
Ps. 22:24 answers the question of Ps. 22:1, “For He has not despised, nor abominated, The affliction of the afflicted, Nor has He hidden His face from him, And in his crying unto Him He hears.” Now we know from Scripture how the Father would have responded.
The star Zubenelgenubi (Scorpion’s claw) in Moznayim pointed to the moon.
The double star Zubenelgenub, means the scorpion claw, at the time of Christ’s death. Although familiar with the sky, the Jews did not use images to represent the constellations of the Mazzaroth (see facing pictures).
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:45-50
45 And from the sixth hour darkness was over all the land unto the ninth hour.
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a great voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, My God, my God, why did Thou forsake Me?
47 Some of those were standing there, having heard, were saying, “This man call for Elijah.”[9]
48 And straightway one of them having run, and having taken a sponge, and having filled it with vinegar, and having put it on a reed, was giving Him to drink.
49 And the rest were saying, “Let it go, let us see if Elias comes to save Him.”
50 And Jesus, having cried again with a great voice, gave up the spirit.
[9] Psalms 22:1-31
27:51-54 Earthquake
Behold
1. Veil of the sanctuary was separated in two;
2. The earth was shaken;
3. Rocks were separated;
4. Tombs were opened;
5. Saints having fallen asleep arose.
Veil of the Sanctuary
If dimensions of the temple was 60 royal cubits in height or 102 feet, then the veil might have been 85 feet high.
Josephus tells us that the temple width of the veil was about 4 inches.
It could not have been torn by earthquake.
Jesus Christ consecrated us through His veil, that is His flesh (Heb. 10:20). The old veil was no longer needed, since Jesus became the living veil.
What caused the veil of the sanctuary to be separated? Ancient Rabbinical writings speak about the Menorah light going out, the crimson thread changing to white on the Day of Atonement, and the temple gates opening. These events happened until AD 30, which is the starting date of Jesus ministry. The spiritual veil had been part of the physical.
In AD 33, the temple veil was lifted and torn from top to bottom. Yet, ancient writings tell us it was NOT torn naturally. Neither was this a vision seen by one person. What Matthew actually saw was the spiritual veil of the Temple (100 ft. x 85 ft.) lifted and separated, and torn from top to bottom.
Besides, Mary Magdalne, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and Salome the mother of James and John, there would have been other eyewitnesses of the event.
Where did the spiritual veil go? To every believer!
Earthquake
In AD 33, a massive 8.2 earthquake hit at Ein Gedi, about 22 miles away from Jerusalem. Although not large enough to damage major sites in the city, but it tore the sanctuary veil and its affect was observed outside the city in the west.
Out of all the Gospel writers, Matthew is the only one who uses the Greek word σεισμός=seismos for earthquake. This is not an allegorical statement coming from him, but as a literal eye witness.
The rocks were easily separated because Jerusalem limestone is brittle under neutron emission.
What about the saints who arose? Although the tombs were opened, the bones of the saints are erect or standing. They are NOT resurrected yet, because Jesus will be resurrected first, as “first fruits” (1 Cor. 15:20).
His Resurrection
ἔγερσις = egersis, a Greek word meaning awakening from death, implies his Resurrection.
This verse is the Central Theme of the passage, and points to Christ three days later, when the resurrected saints who will appear in Jerusalem.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 gives us a prophecy about the event that was fulfilled at the the death and Resurrection of Jesus.
Centurion
A centurion was a Roman officer in command of 80-100 infantrymen. Could he have been the one that speared Jesus (Jn. 19:34)? If so, the failing eyes of Longinus were healed by the blood of Christ falling on him, and he would later become a Christian martyr.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:51-54
51 And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was separated in two from top unto bottom, and the earth was shaken, and the rocks were separated,
52 And the tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints having fallen asleep slept arose;
53 And having come forth out of the tombs after His Resurrection, they came into the holy city, and appeared to many.
54 And the centurion and those with him, watching Jesus, having seen the earthquake, and the things that were done, feared exceedingly, saying, “Truly, this was God’s Son.”
27:55-61 The Burial of Jesus
Mary the Magdalene
Most likely, Mary came from Magdala on the Galilee. Although she had had seven demons cast from her (Mk. 16:9), she was not the woman caught in adultery (Jn. 8:3-4) a later event, in which this myth arose from a series of Easter sermons in AD 591 done by Pope Gregory I.
Perhaps, she was the woman who was a sinner and who had anointed the feet of Jesus in His early ministry. (Lk. 7:36-50.) However, don’t confuse Mary the Magdalene with Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus.
Mary the Mother of James and Joses
Mary, the Mother of James (the less) and Joses, was a daughter of Joseph and the wife of Cleopas. Joseph had honorably married his dead brother’s wife who had not produced children. When Joseph’s widow died, he later married the younger Mary, known as the mother of Jesus. Therefore, Mary the mother of James and Joses was a step-sister-cousin to the Lord’s mother, and was a step-aunt to Jesus.
Mother of the Sons of Zebedee
Salome, the Mother of James and John, was also a daughter of Joseph and the wife of Cleopas. She had married Zebedee. Therefore, Salome, the mother of James and John was a step-sister-cousin to the Lord’s mother, and was a step-aunt to Jesus. (Mk. 15:40, 16:1)
Late in the Day
ELEVENTH HOUR: 5-6 pm
Burning of incense and priestly benediction (Mishnah: Tamid, 6:3-7:2; Num. 6:24-26).
Jesus’ body is prepared with a hundred pounds of myrrh and aloes, and wrapped in linen. (Jn. 19:38-40).
Although not mentioned in Scripture, did Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, give a priestly benediction?
Joseph of Arimathea
Joseph of Arimathea was a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin (Mk. 14:43, Lk. 23:50). He was very wealthy and could afford a very expensive burial for Jesus.
Other Mary
The other Mary refers back to Mary the mother of James and Joses.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:55-61
55 And many women were there viewing from afar, who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him:
56 Among whom was Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses (Joseph), and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
57 And late in the day having come, a rich man came from Arimathae, named Joseph, who also himself was discipled to Jesus:
58 He having coming to Pilate, asked for himself the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be paid.
59 And having taken the body, Joseph wrapped it in a fine linen cloth,
60 And placed it in his own new tomb, that he quarried out in the rock: and having rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb, he went away.
61 And Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting before the tomb.
27:62-66 The Guard at the Tomb
Preparation
Preparation refers to the day before the Sabbath. Then the morrow after the Preparation is Saturday.
The chief priests and Pharisees came to Pilate on the Sabbath Saturday.
After Three Days
Since Passover was Friday in AD 33, three days would be the first day of the week, or Sunday. The Jews thought inclusively.
Sealed the Stone
Joseph of Arimathea had already rolled a great stone in front of the tomb. So, what does it mean that they secured the tomb, having sealed the stone with the watch? They further secured the tomb by having a Roman watch stand guard.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 27:62-66
62 And the morrow that is after the Preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees were gathered together unto Pilate,
63 Saying, “Lord, we have remembered that that deceiver said, while yet living, ‘After three days I do rise.’
64a “Command therefore the tomb to be secured till the third day,
64b “lest ever having come by night, his disciples may steal him away, and may say to the people, ‘He is risen from the dead:’ and the last deceit shall be worse than the first.”
65 And Pilate was saying to them, “Ye have a watch: go away, secure it as ye have known.”
66 And they, having gone, secured the tomb, having sealed the stone with the watch.
28:1-20 The Resurrection
28:1-10 The Women at the Tomb
Other Mary
The other Mary refers back to Mary the mother of James and Joses.
Quake
This is not an earthquake, but an angel quake.
Those Observing
Those on watch and the two Marys were those who were observing.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 28:1-10
1 And at even of the Sabbath, as the dawning towards the first of the week, came Mary the Magdalene and the other Mary to view the tomb.
2 And behold, there was a great quake: for an angel of the Lord having descended out of heaven, having come to, rolled away the stone from the door, and was sitting upon it.
3 And his form was like lightning, and his garment white as snow:
4 And those observing, were shaken from fear of him, and became as dead.
5 And answering the angel said to the women, “Fear not ye: for I have known that ye seek Jesus, who has been crucified.
6 “He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.
7 “And having gone quickly, say ye to His disciples that He is risen from the dead; and behold, He leads you forwards to the Galilee; there ye shall see Him. Behold, I have told you!”
8 And having come forth quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, they ran to report to His disciples.
9 And as they were going to tell to His disciples, and behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Hail.” And they having come to Him laid hold of His feet, and worshipped Him.
10 Then says Jesus to them, “Fear ye not. Go away,
report to my brethren so that they may come away to the Galilee, and there shall they see Me.”
28:11-15 The Report of the Watch
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 28:11-15
11 And as they are going, behold, some of the watch having come to the city, reported to the chief priests all the things having happened.
12 And having been gathered together with the elders, also having taken counsel, they gave sufficient silver coins to the soldiers,
13 Saying, “Say ye that His disciples having come by night, stole him, we being asleep.
14 “And if this may be heard by the governor, we will persuade him, and keep you free from care.”
15 And they, having received the money, did as they were taught: and this account was spread abroad among Jews till this today.
28:16-20 Galilee: The Great Comission
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
The full trinity is expressed by baptism.
Scripture Reading - BPV
Mt. 28:16-20
16 And the eleven disciples went to the Galilee, to a mountain where Jesus appointed them.
17 And having known Him, they worshipped Him: but some hesitated.
18 And having come near, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “All authority was given to Me in heaven
and on earth.
19 “Having gone, therefore, disciples all the nations, baptizing them to the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit:
20 “Teaching them to observe all, whatever I commanded you: and behold, I am with you all the days, till the consummation of the age. Amen.”
CHRONOLOGY OF SOME NEW TESTAMENT WOMEN | |||
Women | Ministry | Crucifixion AD 33 | Resurrection AD 33 |
1st woman anointed Jesus | AD 30 Lk. 7:36-50 |
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Mary Magdalene & Joanna (wife of Chuza) | AD 30-33 Lk. 8:2-3 |
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Mary and Martha | AD 31-33 Lk. 10:38-42 Jn. 11:1-57 |
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Woman caught in adultery | AD 32 Jn. 8:1-11 |
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Mother of Zebedee’ children (Salome) desires that her sons to be honored | AD 33 Mt. 20:20-21 |
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2nd woman anointed Jesus Mary (Martha’s sister) | AD 33 Mt. 26:6-13 Mk. 14:3-9 Jn. 12:1-8 |
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Mary, mother of Jesus |
| Jn. 19:25-27 |
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Mary Magdalene (7 demons cast) |
| Mt. 27:56, 61 Mk. 15:40, 47 Jn. 19:25 | Mt. 28:1 Mk. 16:1, 9 Lk. 24:10 Jn. 20:1-18 |
Mary: mother of James the less/Joses, wife of Cleophas, the other Mary |
| Mt. 27:56, 61 Mk. 15:40, 47 Jn. 19:25 | Mt. 28:1 Mk. 16:1 Lk. 24:10 |
Mother of Zebedee’ children (Salome) |
| Mt. 27:56 Mk. 15:40 | Mk. 16:1 |
Joanna (wife of Chuza) |
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| Lk. 24:10 |
Dedicated to my son, Matthew.