Matthew Chapter 27

Matthew 27 is a hard chapter to read. It’s filled with betrayal, injustice, suffering, and death. Jesus, the innocent Son of God, is mocked, beaten, and crucified. It’s heartbreaking. And yet, I have to remind myself—this was for me.

As I read through this chapter, I see so many different people, each responding to Jesus in their own way. And I have to ask myself—who do I relate to the most?

There’s Judas. He regrets what he’s done, throwing the silver back at the priests, but instead of seeking forgiveness, he gives up in despair. Have I ever let guilt or shame keep me from turning back to God?

Then there’s Pilate. He knows Jesus is innocent, but instead of standing for the truth, he gives in to the pressure of the crowd. How often have I stayed silent or made the easy choice instead of the right one?

And the crowd—one moment they’re shouting “Hosanna,” and the next they’re screaming “Crucify Him!” Have I ever followed Jesus when it was convenient but turned away when it got difficult?

Then there’s the soldiers. They mock Jesus, spit on Him, drive the nails into His hands and feet. It’s easy to judge them, but the truth is, my sin put Him on that cross just as much as theirs did. Do I really grasp the weight of what Jesus suffered for me?

But then, there’s the thief on the cross. He has nothing to offer, no way to make up for his past, yet he turns to Jesus in faith and says, “Remember me.” And Jesus, in the midst of His own suffering, gives the most beautiful response: “Today you will be with Me in paradise.” That’s grace. That’s the heart of the gospel.

And finally, there’s the Roman centurion. He watches everything unfold—the darkness, the earthquake, the way Jesus dies—and he can’t deny it anymore. “Surely, He was the Son of God.”

This chapter forces me to ask myself: How am I responding to Jesus? Am I running from Him in guilt like Judas? Avoiding a decision like Pilate? Following the crowd? Or am I like the thief, humbly coming to Jesus with nothing but faith? Am I like the centurion, recognizing who He truly is?

Matthew 27 is heavy, but it’s not the end of the story. Jesus didn’t stay in the grave. The cross wasn’t a defeat—it was the greatest victory. And because of it, salvation is available to anyone who believes.

Lord, help me to truly see what You did for me on the cross. Don’t let me turn away, stay silent, or follow the crowd. I don’t want to respond to You with guilt, fear, or indifference—I want to respond with faith. Thank You for Your sacrifice. Thank You for Your grace. Amen.

How does this chapter make you feel? Do you see yourself in any of these people? I’d love to hear your thoughts.