Matthew 27:40 – “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse records the mockery directed at Jesus by passersby as He hung on the cross. They taunted Him by recalling His earlier statement about destroying the temple and rebuilding it in three days (John 2:19). Their words were meant to ridicule His claims and challenge His identity as the Son of God.
Their mockery reflects a misunderstanding of Jesus’ words. He was not speaking of the physical temple in Jerusalem but of His own body. By referring to His ability to rebuild the temple in three days, He was predicting His resurrection. The demand to “save yourself” and “come down from the cross” shows their inability to grasp the purpose of His suffering and death.
Historical Context
The reference to Jesus’ statement about the temple comes from His earlier ministry when He cleared the temple courts (John 2:19-21). At that time, the Jewish leaders misunderstood His words, thinking He was referring to the physical temple, which had taken decades to build. Jesus was actually speaking of His body and foretelling His resurrection.
Crucifixion was a public execution method designed to humiliate and deter others. The ridicule Jesus faced while on the cross was common for those being executed, but the specific taunts directed at Him focused on His identity and mission. His claim to be the Son of God and His prophecy about the temple made Him a target for scorn.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the rejection of Jesus by those He came to save. The mockery reflects humanity’s misunderstanding of God’s plan and the unwillingness to accept Jesus as the Messiah. Instead of recognizing the significance of His sacrifice, the crowd demanded proof of His power in a way that aligned with their expectations.
Theologically, the challenge to “come down from the cross” reveals a profound truth: Jesus could have saved Himself but chose not to, so He could save humanity. His refusal to come down demonstrates His obedience to the Father and His commitment to fulfilling His mission of redemption.
Literary Analysis
The verse captures the irony of the situation. While the crowd mocked Jesus for His supposed inability to save Himself, He was accomplishing the greatest act of salvation in history. Their demand for Him to come down from the cross highlights their limited understanding of His purpose and identity.
The repetition of the mocking phrase “if you are the Son of God” mirrors Satan’s temptations in the wilderness (Matthew 4:3, 6), where Jesus was challenged to prove His identity through miraculous acts. This connection underscores the spiritual battle taking place at the cross.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 2:19-21 – Jesus speaks of destroying the temple and raising it in three days, referring to His body.
- Isaiah 53:3 – Describes the Messiah as despised and rejected by men.
- Matthew 4:3, 6 – Satan tempts Jesus to prove His identity as the Son of God.
- Philippians 2:8 – Jesus humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the cost of salvation. Jesus willingly endured ridicule and rejection, choosing to stay on the cross to fulfill His mission. His sacrifice challenges believers to trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with human expectations.
This verse also calls Christians to reflect on their understanding of Jesus’ identity and purpose. The mockers misunderstood Jesus’ words and mission, focusing on their limited perspective. Believers are encouraged to seek a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and to trust in His work on the cross.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ refusal to come down from the cross. He willingly endured the mockery and pain because of His love for humanity and His desire to provide salvation. Even as people rejected and insulted Him, Jesus remained faithful to His mission, demonstrating the depth of God’s mercy and grace.
This verse also reflects God’s patience with humanity. Despite the crowd’s taunts and misunderstanding, God continued to offer forgiveness and redemption through Jesus’ sacrifice.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ obedience and humility. As the Son of God, He had the power to come down from the cross, but He chose to remain there to accomplish His mission. His response to the mockery demonstrates His commitment to God’s plan and His love for sinners.
The reference to the temple points to Jesus’ resurrection, which would ultimately vindicate His claims and prove His identity. By staying on the cross, Jesus fulfilled His role as the Lamb of God, taking away the sins of the world (John 1:29).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ refusal to come down from the cross challenge you to trust in God’s plan, even when it’s difficult to understand?
- What does this verse teach about the misunderstanding and rejection Jesus faced during His ministry?
- How can you respond to Jesus’ sacrifice with greater faith and gratitude?
- In what ways does this verse deepen your understanding of Jesus’ obedience and love for humanity?