Matthew Chapter 27 — The Crucifixion and Burial of Jesus
Jesus is tried before Pontius Pilate, crucified at Golgotha, and buried in a new tomb by Joseph of Arimathea.
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Notable Verses
Matthew 27:24
“So when Pilate saw that nothing was being gained, but rather that a disturbance was starting, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this righteous person. You see to it.””
This verse highlights Pilate's attempt to deflect responsibility for Jesus' death despite presiding over the trial.
Matthew 27:46
“About the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lima sabachthani?” That is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?””
These words, quoting Psalm 22, represent one of the most significant and profound moments during the crucifixion.
Matthew 27:54
“Now the centurion and those who were with him watching Jesus, when they saw the earthquake and the things that were done, were terrified, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God!””
This statement marks a profound acknowledgment of Jesus' identity by a Roman soldier witnessing the events.
Chapter Summary
Matthew 27 recounts the final hours of Jesus' life, beginning with the chief priests delivering him to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Meanwhile, Judas Iscariot, filled with remorse, returns the thirty pieces of silver and ends his life. During the trial, Pilate offers to release a prisoner, but the crowd, persuaded by religious leaders, chooses Barabbas and demands Jesus be crucified. After being mocked and flogged by soldiers, Jesus is led to Golgotha and crucified between two robbers. At the moment of his death, several supernatural events occur: the temple veil is torn, the earth quakes, and tombs are opened. The chapter concludes with Joseph of Arimathea placing Jesus' body in a secure, rock-cut tomb, which the Roman guards then seal and watch over at the request of the Pharisees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Barabbas was a 'notable prisoner' held by the Romans. During the Passover custom of releasing a prisoner, the crowd, influenced by the religious leaders, chose him to be freed instead of Jesus.
The chief priests decided it was not lawful to put the money into the temple treasury because it was 'the price of blood.' Instead, they used it to buy a potter's field to serve as a burial place for strangers.
The text records that the temple veil was torn from top to bottom, the earth shook, and rocks split. Additionally, tombs were opened and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised.
Jesus was buried by Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy disciple. He requested the body from Pilate, wrapped it in clean linen, and placed it in his own new, rock-cut tomb before rolling a large stone across the entrance.
Study Note
The tearing of the temple veil from top to bottom symbolically signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity at the moment of Jesus' death.
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