Matthew 27: The Crucified King

Overview

Matthew 27 presents the climactic moment of Jesus’ earthly ministry: His suffering, crucifixion, death, and burial. This chapter is a sobering and theologically rich passage that reveals the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, the depravity of human sin, and the majesty of Christ’s obedience unto death. Key events include:

Jesus being handed over to Pilate by the Jewish leaders.
Judas’ remorse and suicide.
The Roman trial before Pilate.
The release of Barabbas and the condemnation of Jesus.
The mockery, scourging, and crucifixion of Christ.
The supernatural signs accompanying His death.
His burial by Joseph of Arimathea.

The chapter emphasizes substitutionary atonement, fulfilled prophecy, and God’s sovereign plan of redemption. Jesus is portrayed as the innocent Lamb, crucified for the sins of the world, bearing the wrath of God in our place.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Background

Matthew 27 takes place during the Passover festival in Jerusalem, around 30-33 AD. Roman occupation was dominant, and tensions between the Jewish population and Roman authorities were high. The Jewish leaders, threatened by Jesus’ influence and claims, sought His death through Roman execution—crucifixion—because it symbolized a cursed death (Deuteronomy 21:23).

Pilate, the Roman governor, historically is known for his brutal rule and efforts to maintain peace in Judea. His reluctance to execute Jesus stems from both his recognition of Jesus’ innocence and his fear of political backlash.

Judas’ suicide reflects not only personal guilt but also the spiritual bankruptcy of rejecting Christ without repentance. The thirty pieces of silver and the purchase of the potter’s field fulfill prophecies from Zechariah and Jeremiah, pointing to divine orchestration.

Literary Structure

Matthew 27 uses a narrative historical style interwoven with Old Testament references, symbolism, and irony:

Irony: The “King of the Jews” is mocked, yet He is the true King.
Symbolism: The tearing of the temple curtain (v. 51) signifies the end of the Old Covenant system and direct access to God through Christ.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: Nearly every major scene echoes prophetic Scripture (Isaiah 53, Psalm 22).

The chapter is structured to contrast earthly injustice with divine justice, and human mockery with God’s ultimate glorification of Christ.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Substitutionary Atonement

Jesus takes the place of sinners—Barabbas is released while Jesus is condemned, symbolizing what Christ does for all who believe. He bears the penalty of sin, fulfilling Isaiah 53:5 — “But he was pierced for our transgressions.”

Evangelical Doctrine: This underpins the core of the Gospel: Jesus died for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3), satisfying the justice of God.

2. Fulfilled Prophecy and Scriptural Authority

From Judas’ betrayal to Jesus’ silence before His accusers, the casting of lots for His clothes, and His burial in a rich man’s tomb, Matthew 27 demonstrates the infallible fulfillment of God’s Word.

Evangelical Doctrine: Scripture is inerrant and trustworthy in all it affirms (2 Timothy 3:16). Prophetic accuracy confirms divine authorship.

3. God’s Sovereignty in Redemptive History

Even amid betrayal, injustice, and cruelty, God’s sovereign hand orchestrates each event to fulfill His redemptive plan. Jesus’ death was no accident but the preordained method of salvation (Acts 2:23).

Evangelical Doctrine: God is in control of history and uses even human evil to accomplish His purposes without being the author of sin.

4. The Innocence and Righteousness of Christ

Pilate and others affirm Jesus’ innocence (vv. 4, 19, 23, 24). He is the spotless Lamb, unworthy of death. His silence before accusers fulfills Isaiah 53:7.

Evangelical Doctrine: Christ’s sinlessness qualifies Him to be our Savior and High Priest (Hebrews 4:15).

5. The Wrath and Mercy of God

The cross is where God’s wrath against sin and His love for sinners meet. The darkness and the cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (v. 46) signify the weight of divine judgment borne by Jesus.

Evangelical Doctrine: God’s justice demands punishment for sin, but His love provides a substitute in Christ (Romans 3:25-26).

6. The Power of the Cross

The supernatural signs at Jesus’ death—darkness, earthquake, torn veil, opened tombs—display the cosmic significance of the crucifixion. Access to God is now open; the old sacrificial system is fulfilled.

Evangelical Doctrine: Salvation is by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: Key Sections from Matthew 27

Matthew 27:1-2 – Jesus Delivered to Pilate

“Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed. So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.”

Explanation: The Jewish Sanhedrin confirms its decision to seek Jesus’ death. However, under Roman rule, they lacked authority to execute capital punishment (John 18:31).
Doctrinal Insight: This points to the sovereign orchestration of God’s plan, using even corrupt authorities to fulfill His redemptive purpose.
Cross-Reference: Acts 4:27-28 affirms that Herod, Pilate, and the rulers were gathered against Jesus to do what God predestined.

Matthew 27:3-10 – Judas’ Remorse and Suicide

“When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse…” (v.3)

Explanation: Judas regrets his actions but does not turn to God in true repentance. His remorse leads to suicide, not salvation.
Cross-Reference: 2 Corinthians 7:10 distinguishes godly sorrow (leading to repentance) from worldly sorrow (leading to death).
Application: Emphasize that guilt without repentance leads to destruction. Only faith in Christ can restore a guilty conscience.

Matthew 27:11-26 – Jesus Before Pilate

“Pilate asked him, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ ‘You have said so,’ Jesus replied.” (v.11)

Explanation: Jesus acknowledges His kingship, but His silence before accusations (vv.12-14) fulfills Isaiah 53:7.
Barabbas (vv.15-26) is a powerful symbol of substitution: the guilty set free, the innocent condemned.
Application: Preach the Gospel exchange—Jesus takes our place, bearing our guilt, so we may be justified (Romans 5:8-9).

Matthew 27:27-31 – Mocking the Messiah

“They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him…” (v.28)

Explanation: Roman soldiers mock Jesus with cruel irony—crowning Him with thorns, giving Him a reed scepter, kneeling in fake worship.
Doctrinal Insight: The humiliation of Christ fulfills Philippians 2:6-8—He humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross.

Matthew 27:32-44 – The Crucifixion

“They came to a place called Golgotha…” (v.33)

Verse 35: “They crucified him” — a brief phrase, but loaded with theological weight. Jesus bore the curse (Galatians 3:13).
Verse 39-44: Mockers demand Jesus to come down from the cross—unaware that staying on it is the only way to save them.
Cross-Reference: Psalm 22 prophetically details these events with stunning accuracy.

Matthew 27:45-50 – Jesus’ Death

“About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’” (v.46)

Explanation: Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1, expressing abandonment as He bears the wrath of God for sin.
Theological Insight: Jesus experiences spiritual separation so believers never have to (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Verse 50: His loud cry before death shows He willingly gives up His spirit (John 10:18).

Matthew 27:51-56 – Divine Affirmation

“The curtain of the temple was torn in two…” (v.51)

Explanation: The veil—separating man from the Holy of Holies—was torn from top to bottom, symbolizing direct access to God through Christ.
Cross-Reference: Hebrews 10:19-22 explains this significance. Earthquakes and opened tombs validate Christ’s death as cosmic and redemptive.

Matthew 27:57-61 – The Burial

“Joseph of Arimathea…asked for Jesus’ body…” (v.57)

Explanation: A respected Jewish leader courageously honors Jesus. He fulfills Isaiah 53:9—“assigned a grave with the rich.”
Application: Encourage bold discipleship, even when culturally unpopular.

Matthew 27:62-66 – Guarding the Tomb

“We remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said…” (v.63)

Irony: Jesus’ enemies remembered His resurrection promise better than His disciples.
Doctrinal Insight: Their attempt to prevent resurrection evidence ends up confirming its truth (Matthew 28).

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the Fulfillment of Prophecy
- Every scene is anchored in Old Testament prophecy, from the betrayal price (Zechariah 11:12-13) to the mocking (Psalm 22) and burial (Isaiah 53).
- This affirms that Christ is the long-promised Messiah, central to redemptive history.
Jesus is the True King
- Though mocked with a crown of thorns and sign “King of the Jews,” Jesus is indeed King—victorious through humiliation (Revelation 19:16).
Jesus is the Sin-Bearer
- On the cross, Jesus absorbs the wrath of God for sin (Romans 3:25). His forsakenness reveals the depth of our guilt and the greatness of His grace.
Jesus is the New Covenant Mediator
- The torn temple veil signals the end of the sacrificial system. Christ’s death ushers in the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:15), offering access to God through His blood.

Connection to the Father

Matthew 27, while focusing on the Son, deeply reflects the will and presence of God the Father:

The Father’s Sovereign Plan
- From the betrayal to the resurrection preparation, the events unfold precisely as the Father ordained (Acts 2:23).
- John 3:16 reminds us that it was the Father’s love that sent the Son to the cross.
The Father’s Wrath and Justice
- Jesus’ cry in verse 46 shows He bore the full weight of divine justice. The Father, in perfect righteousness, did not spare His own Son (Romans 8:32).
- This reveals the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God.
The Father’s Love Revealed
- The cross demonstrates not only wrath, but love. It was the Father who provided the Lamb (Genesis 22:8), and it is the Father who opens the way for adoption (Galatians 4:4-7).
Divine Affirmation of the Son
- The supernatural signs at Jesus’ death—the torn veil, the earthquake, the centurion’s confession (v.54)—all serve as heavenly testimony from the Father affirming the Son.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Although the Holy Spirit is not explicitly named in Matthew 27, His presence and role are powerfully implied throughout the chapter, consistent with the Spirit’s ministry across Scripture.

1. The Spirit’s Role in Empowering Christ’s Obedience

Jesus, having been conceived by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20) and anointed at His baptism (Matthew 3:16), now endures the cross by the power of the Spirit (Hebrews 9:14).
The Spirit strengthened Christ to fulfill Isaiah 53:7—remaining silent before His accusers and submitting to suffering.

2. The Spirit’s Work in Fulfilled Prophecy

Prophets moved by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21) foretold the events of Matthew 27 in detail—betrayal, rejection, crucifixion, and burial.
The Holy Spirit thereby affirms the truthfulness of Scripture and reveals God’s redemptive plan centered in Christ.

3. The Spirit Opens Hearts to Recognize Christ

The centurion’s confession (v.54) that Jesus is the Son of God reflects Spirit-enabled revelation (1 Corinthians 12:3).
This same Spirit continues to convict the world of sin and point to Christ crucified (John 16:8-11).

4. The Spirit Prepares the Way for New Covenant Access

The torn veil (v.51) symbolizes the Spirit’s future indwelling presence, now available to all believers because of Christ’s atoning death (Romans 5:5; Hebrews 10:19-22).

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “The Crucified King: Love, Wrath, and Redemption”

Text: Matthew 27

Introduction

Open with a question: “What would it take for someone to willingly die for a guilty person?”
Introduce the concept of substitutionary sacrifice and the universal hunger for justice and mercy.

Main Point 1: The Innocent King Rejected (vv.1-6)

Jesus is declared innocent by Pilate, yet condemned by the crowd.
Illustration: Like a wrongly accused person on trial, Jesus is judged not for His guilt, but for our sins.
Application: Are we still choosing Barabbas over Jesus in our daily choices—seeking what pleases the flesh over submitting to Christ?

Main Point 2: The Suffering Savior Mocked (vv.27-44)

Soldiers ridicule Jesus, yet ironically proclaim the truth—He is the King.
Example: Many today still mock Jesus, wearing crosses but rejecting the cross’s meaning.
Transition: In the midst of this mockery, God was fulfilling the plan of salvation.

Main Point 3: The Forsaken Son and the Tearing of the Veil (vv.45-51)

Jesus’ cry shows His real forsakenness under God’s wrath, not mere emotional pain.
The temple veil is torn—symbolizing new access to God.
Analogy: Imagine a courtroom where the guilty are allowed into the judge’s chambers—this is the miracle of the cross.

Main Point 4: The Power of the Cross Confirms the King (vv.51-66)

Earthquakes, tombs opening, and a Roman centurion’s confession all declare Jesus’ identity.
Application: The cross demands a response—either confession or rejection.
Call to Action: Will you confess Jesus as Lord, not just with words, but with surrendered life?

Conclusion

Summarize: The crucifixion is not a defeat—it is the ultimate victory over sin, death, and separation from God.
Challenge the church: If Jesus bore all this to bring us near, how will we live in response?
Call to Action: Come to the cross. Stay at the cross. Proclaim the cross.

Illustrations and Examples

1. The Wrongly Accused Prisoner (Modern Legal Story)

A man was wrongly imprisoned for 25 years and later exonerated. When asked how he endured, he said, “I knew the truth.” Contrast this with Jesus—He was innocent, but He chose not to defend Himself, because He came to bear our guilt.

2. The Torn Veil as a Broken Wall

Use the image of the Berlin Wall—once a symbol of separation and hostility. When it fell, it symbolized a new freedom and unity. In the same way, the veil was torn to grant access to God, no longer limited to priests or rituals.

3. Substituting Barabbas Today

Barabbas represents every sinner set free. In our own lives, we choose “Barabbas” every time we prefer sin or self over surrender to Christ.

Ask: “Are you living like the freed Barabbas, knowing someone died in your place?”

4. The Mocked King Analogy

Imagine someone saving your life and then being mocked for it—yet staying silent. That’s Christ. We often mock Him with our indifference and pride, yet He still extends grace.

Application for Today’s Christian

Matthew 27 is not merely a historical record; it is a life-shaping truth for every follower of Christ. It calls Christians to live in the power of the cross, grounded in Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection hope.

1. Discipleship: Follow the Crucified Christ

Embrace the Cross Daily
Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross” (Luke 9:23). Matthew 27 challenges believers to follow Jesus in humble obedience, even in suffering.
Stand for Truth, Even When Costly
Joseph of Arimathea boldly asked for Jesus’ body. In a hostile world, believers must stand unashamedly for Christ, even when it risks social rejection or personal cost (Romans 1:16).
Surrender Pride and Self-Will
Jesus‘ silence before accusers models submission to God’s will over personal vindication. Disciples are called to live not for self-justification, but for God’s glory (Philippians 2:5-8).

2. Stewardship: Steward Your Freedom and Testimony

Live Worthy of Your Ransom
Barabbas was set free while Jesus was condemned. This picture of grace should lead believers to steward their freedom well—not as a license to sin, but as a call to holiness (Galatians 5:13).
Use Resources for God’s Glory
Joseph used his own tomb for Jesus. Christians today are called to offer their homes, time, finances, and abilities in service to Christ and His body (1 Peter 4:10).

3. Faith in Action: Boldly Proclaim the Gospel

Proclaim the Cross as Central
The message of Christ crucified is the power and wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). Today’s Christian must not water down the Gospel but declare it with clarity and compassion.
Live in Light of Access to God
The torn veil means we can come boldly before God in prayer and worship (Hebrews 4:16). Live in this reality—pursue holiness, intimacy with God, and intercessory prayer.

Connection to God’s Love

1. The Father Gave His Son for Us

Matthew 27 is a graphic display of divine love. Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God the Father did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all (Romans 8:32). The cross is not a story of divine abuse—it’s the coordinated mission of love between Father and Son to save sinners.

2. Jesus Bore Our Sin to Bring Us Back to the Father

The cry, “Why have you forsaken me?” (v.46), shows that Jesus took the separation we deserved. This was love in action—bearing wrath so we could know acceptance.
Isaiah 53:5 – “He was pierced for our transgressions… and by his wounds we are healed.”

3. The Torn Veil Shows Love That Removes Barriers

God removed the wall of separation through the death of His Son. His love not only saves us but also restores us to fellowship.
Ephesians 2:13-18 affirms that by His blood, Jesus has brought peace and made access possible for all.

4. Love for the Repentant, Mercy for the Guilty

Even the thief on the cross in Luke’s account (Luke 23:42-43) found mercy in his final hours—proof that God’s love is extended to the worst sinner who repents.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Creation and the Fall

Humanity’s need for a Savior began in Genesis 3, where sin entered the world through Adam. Matthew 27 is the answer to the curse of Eden—Jesus absorbs the curse on the cross (Galatians 3:13).
Jesus, the Second Adam, succeeds where the first failed, obeying the Father perfectly even unto death (Romans 5:18-19).

2. Covenant Fulfillment

The Abrahamic and Mosaic Covenants promised blessing, atonement, and a coming Redeemer. Jesus fulfills these promises:
- As the Passover Lamb (Exodus 12, 1 Corinthians 5:7).
- As the suffering servant who brings the New Covenant (Isaiah 53, Jeremiah 31:31).
The temple veil torn signals the transition from the Old Covenant to the New, where access to God is no longer through priests, but through Christ (Hebrews 10:19-22).

3. Redemption Through Blood

The Bible consistently teaches that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness (Hebrews 9:22). Jesus’ blood in Matthew 27 is the fulfillment of every Old Testament sacrifice.
From Abel’s offering (Genesis 4) to the sacrifices of Leviticus, all pointed forward to this moment when the Lamb of God would take away the sins of the world (John 1:29).

4. Restoration and New Creation

Jesus’ death is not the end—it is the beginning of restoration. The resurrection to follow in chapter 28 initiates the new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
The earthquake and opened tombs in 27:51-53 are previews of resurrection power, pointing to the restoration of all things in Christ (Acts 3:21; Revelation 21:5).

Reflection Questions

Use these questions for personal devotion, discipleship, or small group study. They aim to deepen engagement with the truth of Matthew 27 and apply it meaningfully to everyday life.

1. What does Matthew 27 reveal about the depth of human sin and the seriousness of rejecting Jesus?

Consider the actions of Judas, Pilate, the crowd, and the soldiers.
Where do you see yourself in this story?

2. How does the substitution of Barabbas for Jesus help you understand what Christ did for you personally?

In what ways do we still choose the “Barabbas” options in our lives—clinging to sin instead of surrendering to Jesus?

3. Jesus remained silent before His accusers. What does that teach us about submission to God’s will in times of injustice or suffering?

Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God more than demand vindication?

4. What is the significance of Jesus’ cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

How does this deepen your understanding of the cost of your salvation?

5. The temple curtain was torn at Jesus’ death. What does this mean for your daily walk with God?

How can you live more fully aware of the direct access you have to God through Jesus?

6. What do the signs at Jesus’ death (darkness, earthquake, opened tombs) say about who Jesus is?

Have you truly responded in faith and reverence to the power and authority of the crucified Christ?

7. How does this chapter inspire you to live out your faith more boldly in public and private?

What might bold faith look like in your workplace, family, or community?

8. Joseph of Arimathea used what he had to honor Jesus. How can you use your resources—time, possessions, relationships—to serve and glorify Christ today?

9. In what ways has the cross changed your understanding of God’s love, justice, and mercy?

Are there sins or burdens you still carry that Christ has already paid for?

10. What is your response to Jesus’ death on the cross?

Have you fully placed your trust in Him as Savior and King?
If you have, how are you helping others come to know the meaning of the cross?