Commentary on Matthew 27:39
Verse: "And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads," (Matthew 27:39 NKJV)
Introduction
This verse provides a poignant glimpse into the derision faced by Jesus during His crucifixion. It captures the scorn of those who mocked Him, highlighting the depth of human sinfulness and the fulfillment of prophecy. This commentary endeavors to explore the theological and historical implications found within Matthew 27:39 by integrating insights from notable public domain commentaries.
Historical Context
The setting of Matthew 27:39 is the crucifixion of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology. Crucifixion was a humiliating and painful form of execution utilized by the Romans, reserved for the most despised criminals. In this moment of greatest suffering, Jesus becomes the focal point of scorn. Understanding the sociopolitical climate of Judea under Roman occupation is crucial when considering the actions of the passersby.
Interpretation of the Verse
Blasphemy and Mocking
Matthew Henry emphasizes that the act of blaspheming is a profound insult against God. Here, the mocking passerby’s gestures, such as "wagging their heads," serve as physical manifestations of contempt. This act is not merely trivial derision; it represents a collective rejection of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah.
Prophetic Fulfillment
Albert Barnes points out that this behavior fulfilled the prophetic words found in Psalm 22:7-8, which depicts the suffering of the Messiah and the scorn He would endure. This serves to illustrate that Jesus’ crucifixion was not an accidental event but divinely orchestrated, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.
Theological Implications
This verse invites reflection on the doctrine of sin and its manifestation in human actions. The blasphemy directed at Jesus reveals the spiritual blindness of humanity—how sin can lead individuals to fail to recognize the divine in their midst. As Adam Clarke notes, the scorn affixed to the Savior illustrates the deep estrangement between God and man due to sin. It stands as a reminder of the universal need for redemption.
The Reactions of the People
The diverse reactions of the crowd highlight a spectrum of responses to Christ’s suffering, revealing deep-seated spiritual and societal issues.
Wagging of Heads
The act of "wagging their heads" symbolizes disdain and mockery. According to Matthew Henry, this gesture reflects not only derision but also an unmistakable implication of condemnation. It signals a heart hardened against the truth of who Jesus is—God's Son.
Collective Mockery
The collective nature of the mockery corresponds with historical patterns of societal behaviors observed in times of unrest or injustice. Albert Barnes notes that crowds often become emboldened in their actions, losing individual accountability. This phenomenon illustrates how group dynamics can exacerbate sinful behavior.
Spiritual Reflections
For pastors and Bible scholars, Matthew 27:39 serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the nature of mankind's opposition to God. It challenges readers to assess their own hearts regarding their responses to Christ.
The Nature of Faith and Opposition
The passage compels believers to acknowledge how often faith can be countered by doubt, as illustrated by the scoffing. Adam Clarke posits that the mixed responses to Christ reflect the human condition—many who come face to face with the Gospel reject its truth, allowing cultural narratives of scorn to shape their perception of Christ.
Call to Action
This verse calls followers of Christ to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of ridicule. It encourages an examination of how we respond to mockery in our own lives. The challenge is to embody Christ’s grace and love, even when faced with hostility.
Conclusion
Matthew 27:39 is layered with meaning, revealing the profound theological truths about human nature, sin, and redemption. The scornful actions directed towards Jesus serve as a stark reminder of what He willingly endured for our salvation. As we reflect on this passage, we are urged to remain steadfast in our faith, embracing the deep truths about Christ, and extending grace to those around us, mirroring His love—even when faced with opposition.
