Mark 15:28

And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

Mark 15:28 (KJV)

Context

Mark 15:28 appears in the crucifixion narrative, immediately after the statement that Jesus was crucified between two criminals (Mark 15:27). The verse declares that this event fulfilled Scripture: “And he was numbered with the transgressors.” The quotation is from Isaiah 53:12, a prophecy concerning the Suffering Servant.

Meaning

The fulfillment is literal and historical: Jesus was crucified in the company of criminals, treated as a lawbreaker. This does not mean Jesus was a transgressor or that God regarded Him as a sinner. He was sinless, perfectly obedient to the Law, and no sin was found in Him. Rather, He was numbered with transgressors in popular estimation and by the sentence of the judge, being treated as a criminal. The verse emphasizes that the events of the crucifixion were in accordance with the divine plan and Old Testament prophecy.

Biblical connections

Jesus Himself, in Luke 22:37, explicitly applied this same prophecy from Isaiah 53:12 to Himself, stating that it must be fulfilled in Him. This connection shows that Jesus understood His death as the fulfillment of this specific Scripture. The theological significance is that Christ, though innocent, was identified with sinners in His death, bearing the sin of many.

Application

The verse underscores the certainty and precision of prophetic fulfillment in the life and death of Jesus Christ. It reminds believers that God’s plan of redemption unfolds exactly as He promised. Jesus willingly associated Himself with sinners, demonstrating His love and offering salvation to all who believe in Him.

Reflection

It is important to note that the KJV includes Mark 15:28, but some other translations, such as the New International Version, do not include it because of variations in the manuscript evidence regarding the inclusion of this verse in the Gospel of Mark. Nonetheless, whether included or not, the verse aligns with the prophecy of Isaiah 53:12 and the overall narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion.