Matthew 27:28 – “They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes the Roman soldiers’ mockery of Jesus after they took Him into the Praetorium. Stripping Him of His clothes, they put a scarlet robe on Him, mocking His claim to be a king. This act was intended to humiliate and degrade Jesus further, treating Him with contempt and ridicule.
The scarlet robe was likely a military cloak, repurposed to mockingly represent royal clothing. The soldiers’ actions were not just physical abuse; they were meant to make a statement, mocking Jesus’ identity and claims. This moment highlights the depth of humiliation Jesus endured as part of His journey to the cross.
Historical Context
In Roman culture, scarlet or purple garments were associated with royalty, power, and authority. By dressing Jesus in a scarlet robe, the soldiers mocked the idea of Him being the “King of the Jews.” Their actions reflected Roman disdain for Jewish messianic expectations and were a way to ridicule not only Jesus but also the hopes of the people He represented.
Stripping a prisoner before punishment was common in Roman executions. It added to the physical and emotional torment, emphasizing the prisoner’s vulnerability and powerlessness. For Jesus, this act was especially degrading, as it contrasted sharply with His true identity as the King of kings.
Theological Implications
This verse illustrates the humiliation Jesus willingly endured for humanity’s sake. The soldiers’ mockery of His kingship mirrors humanity’s rejection of God’s authority and the sinful desire to assert independence from Him. Yet, Jesus endured this humiliation to fulfill His mission of redemption.
Theologically, this moment underscores Jesus’ role as the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53. His willingness to be stripped and mocked demonstrates His humility and obedience to the Father’s plan. The scarlet robe, though intended to ridicule, points to the truth of Jesus’ kingship and the blood He would shed for humanity.
Literary Analysis
The scarlet robe serves as a powerful symbol in this verse. While the soldiers used it to mock Jesus, it also foreshadows the shedding of His blood, which would provide atonement for sin. The act of stripping Him contrasts with the dignity and authority Jesus possesses as the Son of God, emphasizing the depth of His humiliation.
The narrative builds tension by highlighting the soldiers’ cruelty and setting the stage for the suffering and sacrifice Jesus would endure on the cross. The juxtaposition of mockery and the truth of Jesus’ kingship invites the reader to reflect on the irony of the soldiers’ actions.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.”
- John 19:2 – Describes the soldiers putting a purple robe on Jesus to mock Him.
- Revelation 19:13 – Jesus is described as wearing a robe dipped in blood, symbolizing His victory and sacrifice.
- Philippians 2:8 – Jesus humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the humility and suffering Jesus endured to bring salvation. It challenges believers to reflect on the cost of their redemption and to respond with gratitude and worship. The mockery of Jesus’ kingship also serves as a call to recognize Him as the true King in our own lives.
This verse encourages Christians to consider how they respond to Jesus’ authority. While the soldiers mocked Him, believers are called to honor and submit to Him as Lord.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to endure humiliation and suffering for humanity’s sake. Despite being mocked and ridiculed, Jesus remained committed to His mission, demonstrating the depth of God’s love for a broken and rebellious world.
This verse also reflects God’s patience and mercy. Even as humanity rejected His Son, God continued to pursue reconciliation and offer salvation through Jesus’ sacrifice.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ humility and obedience as the suffering servant. The scarlet robe, though intended for mockery, points to the truth of His kingship and the blood He would shed for the redemption of humanity. Jesus’ willingness to endure such humiliation reflects His deep love and commitment to fulfilling God’s plan.
Jesus’ response to the soldiers’ mockery—remaining silent and submissive—reveals His strength and His trust in the Father. This moment, like the cross itself, demonstrates the heart of Jesus’ mission: to lay down His life for the salvation of others.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ willingness to endure humiliation challenge you to reflect on the cost of your salvation?
- In what ways do people today still mock or reject Jesus’ kingship, and how can you respond to Him differently?
- How does the image of the scarlet robe deepen your understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and His love for humanity?
- What does this verse teach you about the humility and obedience required to follow Jesus?