Matthew 27:39
“And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads.”
Context:Let’s delve into a Bible study on Matthew 27:39 from the King James Version (KJV). This verse is part of the account of Jesus’ crucifixion and reads as follows:
In this verse, we see a significant event taking place during Jesus’ crucifixion. It describes how people passing by the crucifixion site mocked and insulted Jesus, demonstrating their disdain and lack of reverence for Him.
To understand the broader context of this verse, let’s explore the surrounding verses and the events leading up to this point:
Matthew 27:35-38 (KJV):
In these preceding verses, we learn that Jesus was crucified alongside two criminals, and the soldiers divided His garments among themselves, fulfilling a prophecy from Psalm 22:18. The soldiers then sat down to watch Jesus and placed a sign above His head, identifying Him as "Jesus The King Of The Jews."
Significance:Now, let’s focus on Matthew 27:39 and its significance:
This verse highlights the reaction of people who were passing by the crucifixion site. Instead of expressing compassion, empathy, or acknowledging Jesus’ innocence, they engaged in reviling and mocking Him. The act of "wagging their heads" further exemplifies their contempt and derision.
This behavior is a striking contrast to the humility, love, and forgiveness that Jesus exemplified throughout His ministry. It underscores the rejection and suffering He endured, fulfilling the prophecies concerning the Messiah, particularly in Isaiah 53.
The mocking and insults directed at Jesus reveal the hardness of heart and unbelief prevalent among the people witnessing His crucifixion. It demonstrates the fulfillment of Psalm 22:7-8, which says, "All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him: let him deliver him since he delighted in him."
This verse also serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle Jesus faced. The Apostle Paul later wrote in Ephesians 6:12, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." The mocking and reviling witnessed at the crucifixion were part of the spiritual battle Jesus endured on behalf of humanity.
