Mark 15:28 – “[And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘He was numbered with the transgressors.’]”
Note: Some Bible translations do not include this verse, but it is referenced from Isaiah 53:12 and reflects the fulfillment of prophecy.
Extended Explanation
This verse points to the fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah 53:12, which predicted that the Messiah would be “numbered with the transgressors.” This means that Jesus, though sinless, would be counted among sinners and treated like a criminal. By being crucified between two criminals (Mark 15:27), Jesus fulfilled this prophecy, demonstrating that His death was not a random act but part of God’s plan to redeem humanity.
Jesus’ identification with sinners is at the heart of His mission. Though He had no sin of His own, He bore the sins of the world, standing in the place of those who deserved punishment. His death was not just symbolic; it was the actual sacrifice that made forgiveness and salvation possible.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, public execution by crucifixion was meant to humiliate the condemned and label them as criminals or rebels. The Romans used crucifixion as a method of control, making an example of anyone who challenged Roman authority. The Jewish leaders had handed Jesus over to the Romans, accusing Him of blasphemy and sedition, and Pilate allowed the crucifixion to proceed to maintain public order.
The Jewish people were familiar with the prophecy in Isaiah 53 about the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many. By highlighting Jesus’ death between two criminals, Mark shows that Jesus perfectly fulfilled the role of the suffering servant who would be treated like a transgressor, even though He was innocent.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the doctrine of substitutionary atonement—Jesus took the place of sinners and bore the punishment that we deserve. 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Jesus’ death among criminals was part of God’s plan to reconcile humanity to Himself.
Being “numbered with the transgressors” also highlights the idea of identification. Jesus did not come to save people from a distance—He entered into their suffering, their shame, and their punishment. By being treated as a criminal, Jesus showed that He fully understands the human condition and is willing to meet sinners where they are to bring them salvation.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “numbered with the transgressors” emphasizes the irony and reversal in Mark’s narrative. Jesus, the righteous and holy Son of God, is treated as a common criminal. This contrast serves to highlight the injustice of His death while also showing the depth of His humility and obedience to God’s will. Mark often uses irony in his Gospel to show how human actions fulfill God’s purposes even when people are unaware of it.
The fulfillment of prophecy also plays a central role in Mark’s narrative. By mentioning the fulfillment of Isaiah 53:12, Mark connects Jesus’ crucifixion to the larger biblical story of God’s plan to save His people through the suffering of the Messiah.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:12 – “He poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
- Luke 22:37 – Jesus references this prophecy before His arrest, saying, “It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me.”
- 1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and His willingness to be identified with sinners. He didn’t come to condemn sinners but to save them by taking their place on the cross. His death shows that salvation is not based on human effort or righteousness but on the grace and mercy of God.
This verse also challenges believers to live in humility, recognizing that they are saved not because of their own goodness but because Jesus took their place. Just as Jesus identified with sinners, Christians are called to show compassion and love to others, especially those who are marginalized or struggling.
Additionally, this verse invites believers to trust in the sovereignty of God. Jesus’ death fulfilled prophecy, showing that God’s plan for salvation was in motion long before the events of the crucifixion. Christians can trust that God is in control of their lives, even when things seem chaotic or uncertain.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is demonstrated through His willingness to send His Son to be “numbered with the transgressors.” Even though humanity had rebelled against God, He chose to redeem them by allowing His Son to take their place. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God’s love is also seen in the way Jesus fully embraced the human condition. He didn’t come to save perfect people—He came for sinners. By being treated as a criminal, Jesus showed that there is no sin too great for God’s forgiveness and no person too broken for His love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse directly connects to Jesus’ role as the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53. His mission was to take the place of sinners, and being “numbered with the transgressors” visually and symbolically represents His substitutionary death. Jesus fulfilled this prophecy by dying between two criminals, showing that His death was not an accident but part of God’s plan for salvation.
Jesus’ willingness to be treated as a transgressor also reflects His humility and obedience. Philippians 2:8 says, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” His obedience to God’s plan, even when it involved humiliation and suffering, demonstrates His deep love for humanity and His commitment to fulfilling His mission.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you that Jesus was “numbered with the transgressors” and identified with sinners?
- How does understanding Jesus’ willingness to take your place on the cross affect your relationship with Him?
- What can you learn from Jesus’ humility and obedience, even when faced with suffering and injustice?
- How can you reflect Jesus’ compassion and grace in your interactions with others, especially those who feel marginalized or judged?
- How does this verse help you trust in God’s plan, even when circumstances seem difficult or unfair?