Commentary on Matthew 27:46
Verse: "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46)
Contextual Overview
This verse is situated at a critical moment in the crucifixion narrative, illustrating a profound expression of Jesus' anguish as He bears the weight of humanity's sin. The ninth hour corresponds to approximately 3 PM, which is significant in Jewish tradition as a time of prayer and sacrifice. This hour of darkness becomes a moment of divine silence, culminating in Jesus' poignant cry.
Interpretive Insights
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Matthew Henry's Perspective:
Henry emphasizes the gravity of Jesus' expression of abandonment. In his view, this moment reflects the depths of Christ's suffering—not only physical but spiritual, as He bears the sin of the world. Henry cites Psalm 22, from which Jesus quotes, highlighting the prophetic nature of this lament and its fulfillment in the New Testament.
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Albert Barnes' Commentary:
Barnes notes that this utterance serves to underscore the reality of Jesus' human experience. He points out that the forsakenness expressed here aligns with the theme of suffering evident throughout the Psalms. The cry manifests the depths of agony that accompany sin's separation from God, bridging the gap between divine holiness and human sinfulness.
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Adam Clarke's Analysis:
Clarke observes the deep theological implications of this cry, indicating that it encapsulates both abandonment and fulfillment of prophecy. He explains that this phrase reflects Jesus' identification with humanity's plight. Clarke also emphasizes the profound mystery of how Christ, being one with the Father, could experience such a sense of abandonment.
Theological Implications
This verse invites deeper theological reflection on the nature of the Trinity during the crucifixion. The cry represents not only Jesus' suffering but also poses questions regarding the relationship between the Father and the Son at this moment. It challenges theologians and believers alike to consider Christ's full incarnation and His sacrificial role as Mediator.
Moreover, it raises the tension between God’s holiness and His love: how can a holy God turn His face away from sin? This moment illustrates the weight of sin that Jesus bore, leading to His feeling of abandonment, which was essential for redemption’s plan to culminate in His death and resurrection.
Pastoral Applications
For pastors, the implications of this verse offer a rich template for preaching the Gospel. In personal moments of distress, believers can resonate with the felt abandonment of Christ, as it provides solace that He fully understands human pain and alienation. Pastors can leverage this truth to encourage congregants to bring their laments to God, modeling that even in forsakenness, God remains present.
This verse becomes a profound context for addressing grief, loss, and doubt. It assures believers that feeling distant from God doesn't negate His love or their faith. Instead, it can be a pivotal moment for encountering God's grace and understanding the depth of His compassion amidst suffering.
Conclusion
Matthew 27:46 stands as an essential meditation on the cross, bridging Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment. The shared insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively enrich the understanding of this verse, blending exegesis with practical application for today’s readers, especially pastors, students, and scholars alike. As we contemplate the Savior's cry, we are reminded of the profound mystery of His suffering—one that not only fulfilled the Scriptures but also embodies the ultimate expression of redemptive love for humanity.
