Matthew 27:36

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Matthew 27:36 KJV

And sitting down they watched him there;

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Matthew 27:36 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 27:36

This verse, Matthew 27:36, occurs during the crucifixion narrative, portraying the scene wherein soldiers are occupying themselves at the foot of the cross while Jesus suffers. The verse reads:

“And sitting down, they watched him there.”

Context and Setting

This event takes place during one of the most pivotal moments in Christian theology — the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, which is central to the faith's understanding of salvation. The scene reflects the juxtaposition of extreme suffering of Christ against the indifferent demeanor of the soldiers.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

According to Matthew Henry, this verse illustrates the wickedness of the human heart. The soldiers' indifference to the suffering of Jesus symbolizes the heart's propensity to sin and the desensitization to the sacredness of Christ's suffering.

  • Indifference of the Soldiers: Henry emphasizes the contrast between the agony of Christ and the relaxed demeanor of the soldiers who do not recognize the significance of the event unfolding before them.
  • Suffering of Christ: The act of merely sitting and watching aligns with a cruel enjoyment of human suffering, which Henry points out as an indictment on human nature.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes notes that the act of watching was a way for the soldiers to fulfill their military duty while simultaneously soaking in the scene of crucifixion as a spectacle. Barnes underscores several key points:

  • Military Duty: Barnes remarks on the nature of the soldiers’ role in the crucifixion, serving as a reminder of the brutality often associated with Roman law enforcement.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: He also points to the prophetic fulfillment illustrated in this moment, as it showcases the deep humiliation associated with the Messiah and the rejection He faced.
  • Contrast with Jesus: The relaxed posture of the soldiers is set against Jesus's torment, illustrating the grim reality of sin and its effect on humanity.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a detailed analysis of the emotional and spiritual implications of this scene. He particularly focuses on the psychological state of both Jesus and the soldiers:

  • Sadness of the Event: Clarke draws attention to the sadness portrayed in the soldiers' watching. It serves not only as a physical act but as an emotional exposure to the spectacle of innocence suffering.
  • A Study in Humanity: The soldiers' actions represent a broader commentary on humanity's inclination towards apathy in the face of injustice. Clarke argues that this moment challenges readers to reflect on their own responses to suffering.
  • Theological Reflection: The theological implications of the soldiers watching also point towards a deeper understanding of human sinfulness contrasted with God's redemptive plan found in Christ's sacrifice.

Theological Reflections

This verse impacts our understanding of several key theological themes:

  • Christ's Sacrifice: The nonchalant attitude of the soldiers juxtaposes the weight of the sacrifice Jesus is making for humanity’s sins.
  • The Nature of Sin: The indifference displayed signifies a prevalent theme in Scripture — the tendency of the world to overlook the depth of sin and suffering.
  • Humanization of Christ: Understanding that Jesus, fully God and fully man, experienced profound suffering evokes a deep sympathy for His plight and enhances the significance of His sacrifice.

Practical Application for Believers

The reflections on Matthew 27:36 provide essential insights for pastors, theologians, and students:

  • Awareness of Suffering: Believers are encouraged to be more sensitive to the sufferings of others, recognizing the inhumanity that can arise from indifference.
  • Active Response to Injustice: The call is not just to observe but to engage actively in alleviating suffering and addressing injustice in our communities.
  • Radical Empathy: By understanding Christ’s suffering deeply, believers can cultivate a radical empathy towards others, reflecting the heart of the Gospel message.

Conclusion

In summary, Matthew 27:36 serves as a powerful reminder of the stark realities of suffering, the indifference of humanity, and the immense love expressed through Christ's sacrifice. As pastors, theologians, and believers reflect on this passage, it offers a crucial lens through which to examine their own lives and responses to the suffering in the world today.

Matthew 27 (KJV) Verse Selection

Matthew 27:1 Matthew 27:2 Matthew 27:3 Matthew 27:4 Matthew 27:5 Matthew 27:6 Matthew 27:7 Matthew 27:8 Matthew 27:9 Matthew 27:10 Matthew 27:11 Matthew 27:12 Matthew 27:13 Matthew 27:14 Matthew 27:15 Matthew 27:16 Matthew 27:17 Matthew 27:18 Matthew 27:19 Matthew 27:20 Matthew 27:21 Matthew 27:22 Matthew 27:23 Matthew 27:24 Matthew 27:25 Matthew 27:26 Matthew 27:27 Matthew 27:28 Matthew 27:29 Matthew 27:30 Matthew 27:31 Matthew 27:32 Matthew 27:33 Matthew 27:34 Matthew 27:35 Matthew 27:36 Matthew 27:37 Matthew 27:38 Matthew 27:39 Matthew 27:40 Matthew 27:41 Matthew 27:42 Matthew 27:43 Matthew 27:44 Matthew 27:45 Matthew 27:46 Matthew 27:47 Matthew 27:48 Matthew 27:49 Matthew 27:50 Matthew 27:51 Matthew 27:52 Matthew 27:53 Matthew 27:54 Matthew 27:55 Matthew 27:56 Matthew 27:57 Matthew 27:58 Matthew 27:59 Matthew 27:60 Matthew 27:61 Matthew 27:62 Matthew 27:63 Matthew 27:64 Matthew 27:65 Matthew 27:66

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