Mark 15:20

And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.

Mark 15:20 (KJV)

Context

Mark 15:20 concludes the Roman soldiers’ cruel mockery of Jesus that began in Mark 15:16-19. They had dressed him in a purple robe, crowned him with thorns, and hailed him as “King of the Jews” in derision. Now they finish their sport, strip off the purple robe, and put his own clothes back on him before leading him out to crucify him.

The Greek verb translated “mocked” (empaizō) means to play with or ridicule someone, revealing the soldiers’ contempt. Their actions were a brutal parody of royalty, yet they unknowingly echoed the truth that Jesus is indeed King, though his kingdom is not of this world.

Meaning

The removal of the purple robe symbolically “unkinged” Jesus in the soldiers’ eyes, completing their mockery. Putting his own clothes back on him served practical purposes: it identified him to onlookers as the same man condemned to die, and it allowed the soldiers to claim his garments as their perquisite at his execution. This transition from mockery to crucifixion marks the point where Jesus, still bearing the shame, is led out of the Praetorium toward the place of execution outside the city walls.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Matthew 27:31 records the same sequence, confirming the historical event. This verse also sets the stage for the crucifixion, where Jesus would be lifted up as Savior, fulfilling the purpose for which he came.

Application

Jesus endured this degradation willingly, without resistance, demonstrating the depth of his love and condescension. For believers, this verse calls us to reflect on the cost of redemption and to respond with gratitude and wholehearted devotion to the King who suffered for our salvation.

Reflection

As we consider the soldiers’ cruel game, we see how human sin heaps scorn upon the Son of God. Yet even in this darkest moment, God’s redemptive plan moves forward. The mockery of men could not undo the truth of Jesus’ kingship; instead, it highlighted the humility of the King who came not to be served, but to give his life as a ransom for many.