Focus Scripture: Matthew 27:39-40, 45-54
It’s the Easter season! More than just a holiday for gathering with loved ones, Easter is a sacred time to commemorate not only the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ but to reflect deeply on the finished work of the cross.
Our theme passage of scripture reveals different truths, among which are the dangers of a wrong perception of God’s Word, which can mislead people. Many Jews in Jesus’ day expected the promised Messiah to be a political or military figure, interpreting passages like Jeremiah 23:5-6 and Genesis 49:10 (referring to the scepter not departing from Judah) as foretelling a civil ruler.
When Jesus, the Son of God, did not match their expectations, it stirred resentment among the religious leaders, contributing to their animosity and, ultimately, His death. Yet, in opposing Jesus, they unknowingly fulfilled God’s redemptive plan. Here’s what we can learn from the crucifixion account in Matthew 27 concerning the true meaning of Easter.
Lessons for Easter from the Death of Jesus Christ
The true meaning of Easter is that the Son of God dies. This is the most important death in history where there’s celebration, not mourning. But why is that? We have to understand the implications of what Jesus did. Let’s dive in.
1. Literal vs. Spiritual Understanding of Scripture
Many Israelites anticipated a political Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule, and this belief reinforced their doubt about Jesus as the promised King.
Another example of a literal understanding is in Matthew 27:40.
Mockers misquote Jesus: “Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself.” They misunderstood His reference to His body, not a physical structure, and were offended because, historically, it had taken the Israelites years and years to build and rebuild it.
Join us on an in-depth study of the spiritual realities of success.
Get the study guide- Biblical Principles for Becoming Great!
2. Christ’s Death Fulfills Foretold Scripture
The death and crucifixion of Jesus fulfill the scriptures. Jesus’ cry, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” in Matthew 27:46 is a reference to Psalm 22:1. In Psalm 22:16-18, he speaks of Jesus’ pierced hands and feet and the lots cast for His garments, which are all fulfilled in our reference scripture.
However, the Psalmist does not just depict what would happen to the Messiah but reveals that God will be glorified to the ends of the world and exercise dominion over His kingdom.
3. The Resurrection Power Promised to the Saints
We see a preamble of the resurrection power of God not just for Christ alone but also for the saints. “And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many” [Matthew 27:53].
This resurrection power for believers is also cited in Romans 8:11 (ESV), “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he… will also give life to your mortal bodies.”
Jesus’ death on the cross defeated death and brought us the possibility of eternal life.
4. No More Separation
The veil separating the holy of holies in the temple was torn: “And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom…” [Matthew 27:51]. The Israelites could not have access to God in the Old Covenant except through specific high priests who could enter the holy of holies only once each year [Hebrews 9:7].
But, through Jesus’ death, there is a new covenant where He has become the eternal High Priest, and believers now have direct access to God.
We can now approach God’s throne of grace and mercy because we received complete redemption when Jesus the High Priest, offered up his blood without blemish for the atonement of the human race once and for all.
5. Undeniable Signs Confirm Jesus’ Identity
Signs during His death, like earthquakes, darkness, and other wonders, persuaded even hardened Roman soldiers to declare, “Truly this was the Son of God” [Matthew 27:54].
This revelation teaches us that God’s glory is revealed in what appeared to be Christ’s weakness. Even in death, the divinity of Jesus is evident.
Have you received this gift?
If you haven’t, it is very simple. If you’re ready, say this prayer of faith from your heart: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. Forgive my sins and wash me in your precious blood. From today, be my Lord. Amen.” Did you say this prayer? Congratulations! Welcome to the Kingdom of priests! Send us a message via the link and we will walk with you
Applying These Truths to Your Christian Experience
What is the appropriate response to the invaluable sacrifice of the son of God for our salvation? These five takeaways will help us appreciate the gift of Jesus’ death more.
1. Avoid Limiting God to Human Expectations
Believers ought to have faith beyond the physical. Never allow your human expectations to hinder your beliefs or practices.
We cannot confine God to our expectations like the Israelites did when they expected Jesus to be a military deliverer who would use physical power against any forces opposing the Israelites.
2. God Transforms Weakness into His Strength and Glory
What we consider shame in our lives or moments of weakness, God often shifts for our good and His glory. We can have strength even in our trials. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, God says, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
3. We are Free from the Law of Sin and Death
Christians who have been born again enjoy a new life in Christ, free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus…”
We have received our freedom through the cross because Jesus paid the ultimate price to liberate us from sin and death.
4. We Have Direct Access to God’s Presence
Believers can approach the throne of the Lord Jesus Christ freely. The veil of separation was torn so we could approach God’s throne without fear of reproach or condemnation. Hebrews 4:16 encourages us, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace…”
Moreover, we enjoy a new relationship with God as the torn veil signifies unhindered communion with the Father through Christ.
5. God’s Word is Unshakable and True
Every Word in the Bible shall be fulfilled as it was during the crucifixion. Matthew 5:18 affirms, “…not one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.”
We should, therefore, continuously study and meditate on the Word of God, which has been proven sure. The accuracy of fulfilled prophecy during Jesus’ death is a call to read, trust, and live by this Word continually.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Easter, let us remember the empty tomb and also dwell on the meaning of Easter in the finished work of the cross. The son of God dies but it is not a’ defeat- it is a divine victory planned from the beginning of time for our redemption.
Let the death of Jesus remind us of God’s unwavering love, the power of fulfilled prophecy, and the access we now have to His presence. Take time this Easter season to meditate on the Word of God and allow the Holy Spirit to bring it alive in your heart.
A Prayer for Easter
“Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your selfless act of bearing shame, mockery, pain, and death so that we may receive our redemption and freedom. Through Your death and resurrection, You have enabled us to approach Your throne in prayer without condemnation and the consequences of the original sin.
Lord, help me to see beyond my mundane expectations and trust in Your divine plan for my life and destiny. May I never take lightly the finished work of Calvary. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen!”
