Matthew 27:22 – “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify him!”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse depicts a crucial moment in Jesus’ trial before Pontius Pilate. Pilate, having offered the crowd a choice between releasing Jesus or Barabbas, now faces the question of what to do with Jesus, the one called the Messiah. The crowd’s unified response, “Crucify him!” shows their complete rejection of Jesus and their willingness to demand His execution.
Pilate’s question reveals his uncertainty and his attempt to avoid responsibility for condemning Jesus. Despite recognizing Jesus’ innocence (Matthew 27:24), Pilate ultimately yields to the crowd’s demands, prioritizing political stability over justice.
Historical Context
In Roman-occupied Judea, crucifixion was a common form of execution for criminals and rebels, used to demonstrate the power of Rome and deter dissent. For the Jewish leaders and the crowd to demand this brutal punishment for Jesus shows the depth of their rejection of Him.
The title “Messiah” (or “Christ”) carries significant meaning, as it refers to the anointed one prophesied in the Old Testament who would bring salvation to God’s people. The crowd’s cry to crucify Jesus reflects their failure to recognize Him as the fulfillment of these prophecies. Instead, they viewed Him as a threat to their expectations and the status quo.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights humanity’s rejection of God’s gift of salvation. The crowd’s demand for Jesus’ crucifixion demonstrates the sinfulness of human hearts and the tendency to oppose God’s work. Yet, their actions were part of God’s sovereign plan to bring redemption through Jesus’ sacrifice.
Theologically, this moment underscores the substitutionary nature of Jesus’ death. While the crowd called for His crucifixion out of hatred and misunderstanding, God used their rejection to accomplish His purpose of reconciling humanity to Himself through Jesus’ suffering and death.
Literary Analysis
Pilate’s question, “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” serves as a turning point in the trial narrative. It forces the crowd to confront their decision about Jesus, highlighting the weight of their choice. The unified response of “Crucify him!” creates dramatic tension and underscores the injustice of Jesus’ condemnation.
The use of the title “Messiah” emphasizes the irony of the situation: the very people awaiting the Messiah reject the one who fulfills that role, calling for His death instead of His exaltation.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:3 – Prophecy about the Messiah being despised and rejected by men.
- John 1:10-11 – “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.”
- Acts 2:23 – Peter explains that Jesus was handed over by God’s plan, even though human actions played a role.
- Luke 23:20-21 – Pilate tries to release Jesus, but the crowd insists on crucifixion.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of personal decisions about Jesus. Pilate’s question—“What shall I do with Jesus?”—is one that every person must answer. Will we accept Him as Lord and Savior, or will we reject Him?
The verse also challenges believers to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with pressure or opposition. The crowd’s demand for crucifixion reminds us of the cost of following Jesus and the importance of staying faithful to Him, regardless of the world’s response.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in how He used humanity’s rejection of Jesus to fulfill His plan of salvation. Despite the crowd’s cries for crucifixion, God allowed Jesus to endure the cross so that sinners could be reconciled to Him. This act of love demonstrates God’s willingness to go to the greatest lengths to redeem humanity.
Even as the people rejected Jesus, God’s love remained constant, offering forgiveness and salvation to all who would turn to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and the depth of His sacrifice. Despite being the promised Savior, He was rejected and condemned by the very people He came to save. His willingness to endure this injustice reflects His obedience to the Father and His love for humanity.
Jesus’ death on the cross, demanded by the crowd, became the means of salvation for all who believe in Him. His suffering and rejection fulfill Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, demonstrating His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Pilate’s question, “What shall I do with Jesus?” is one that everyone must answer. How have you responded to Jesus in your life?
- What does the crowd’s demand for crucifixion teach us about the human tendency to reject God’s truth?
- How does this verse challenge you to remain faithful to Jesus, even when others around you reject Him?
- In what ways does this verse deepen your understanding of Jesus’ love and sacrifice for you?