Matthew Chapter 27 details the trial, crucifixion, and burial of Jesus. Early in the morning, Jesus is handed over to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, by the chief priests and elders. Judas, filled with remorse, returns the thirty pieces of silver and hangs himself. Pilate, unable to find fault in Jesus, offers to release Him or Barabbas, a notorious prisoner, to the crowd. The crowd chooses Barabbas and demands Jesus' crucifixion. Pilate symbolically washes his hands, declaring himself innocent of Jesus' blood, and hands Jesus over to be flogged and crucified.
Jesus is mocked and beaten by the Roman soldiers, who dress Him in a scarlet robe, place a crown of thorns on His head, and strike Him repeatedly. He is then led to Golgotha, carrying His cross, but Simon of Cyrene is compelled to help Him. At Golgotha, Jesus is crucified between two criminals. Darkness covers the land for three hours, and Jesus cries out, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" Before dying, Jesus yields up His spirit, and the temple veil is torn in two, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. An earthquake occurs, and tombs are opened, raising many holy people to life.
A centurion and those with him declare, "Truly this was the Son of God!" witnessing these events. Jesus is buried in a new tomb owned by Joseph of Arimathea. The chief priests and Pharisees, recalling Jesus' prophecy of rising on the third day, secure the tomb by sealing the stone and setting a guard to prevent His body from being stolen. This chapter emphasizes the suffering, sacrificial death, and burial of Jesus, underscoring the fulfillment of prophecies and the significance of His atoning sacrifice.
