January 25

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Reading 1 - Genesis  41
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v.14 - The word for dungeon (bowr) was a word meaning 'pit' or 'cistern'. It was different from ordinary prison in being more severe as a place of punishment. It consisted of a deep well or cistern (Jer.38:6) and it was a punishment common in Egypt - Gen.39:20, 40:3, here, 42:19. Here's food for thought though - and there can be no references for this! - it is NOT mentioned in the Law of Moses as a form of punishment. This makes imprisonment a human method of punishment, of which God does not approve. Perhaps now we realise some of the reasons why people rejoiced in God while they were there.
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2001      reply to Peter
v.46 - We are given Joseph's age here as 30 - significant in itself, as it was the age that Jesus started his ministry. The last time we were given his age he was seventeen and looking after the flocks (37:2). What a lot has happened in just 13 years!
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2002      reply to Peter
From the way in which Joseph speaks to Pharaoh and suggests that he appoint someone to oversee the years of plenty it seems that Joseph did not consider that he should do that job. Whilst anyone with the skills could have done it Joseph had to be the one appointed in readiness for the arrival of his brothers. Again the angels were at work!
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2002      reply to Peter
:2 So two years passes - and Joseph languishes - but still believes in his God. The time is coming when Joseph who has been 'tried' by the word of God (Psalm 105:19) was to move to the next stage of his work of delivering his brethren.
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Peter
Genesis 41 - Joseph is now in his thirtieth year. He has been in prison a long time, serving time for a crime that he never committed. At least two years have passed since he told the meaning of dreams to the butler and the baker. We know not how long before that incident he had been incarcerated. What a long time for Joseph to experience the sickness of hope deferred! But the time of his enlargement came when he had sufficiently learned the lessons of God designed for him; and the plans of Providence were matured. Thirteen years have passed since he was forcibly removed from his family dwelling in Canaan. Where were you 13 years ago? Could you imagine being so long separated from those you love? How would you or I have handled the incredible loneliness, the isolation, and the absence of familiar sights, sounds, smells and mode of worship?
 
Genesis 41:34 - "and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years" -  It has been asked, why an half part was not ordered to be bought up by Pharaoh, since there were to be as many years of famine as of plenty? To this it is could be replied, that besides this fifth part taken up, as there might be an old stock of former years, so there would be something considerable remain of these seven years of plenty, which men of substance would lay up, as Pharaoh did. Besides, a fifth part might be equal to the crop of an ordinary year, or near it: to which may be added, that in times of famine men live more sparingly, as they are obliged, and therefore such a quantity would go the further; as well as it may be considered, that notwithstanding the barrenness of the land in general, yet in some places, especially on the banks of the Nile, some corn might be produced during the general famine; so that upon the whole a fifth part might be judged sufficient to answer the extremity of the seven years of famine, and even to allow a distribution to other countries, which it obviously did.
 
Genesis 41:42 - "fine linen" - all will recognise that such material as is described here, is the type of material used of the priests covering garments. So once again, Joseph is elevated to a position of priesthood, further evidence of which, is his marriage to Asenath in v45. Asenath is a Gentile Bride, taken from a priestly family, one fit for a faithful young man who has maintained his integrity and his virginity, despite being seemingly abandoned by his family and his God.
 
Genesis 41:45 - "Zaphnath-paaneah" - The meaning of this Egyptian name has been given as "Saviour of the World." Joseph, "The Increaser" has been true to his Jewish name also. He has increased in favour with God and with man, his work is about to increase the exposure of the Gospel that was preached to Abraham his great grandfather. His policies will increase the provision necessary to feed and sustain the "world" through a long cycle of drought. Next to Pharaoh, he is King and he is also a Priest - a King-Priest with policies uncommon to man, able to "heal" the sickness of Egypt's malady, when the drought became fully manifest. In so many ways, this young man is a thought provoking type of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Cliff York [Pine Rivers (Aus)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Cliff
41:25,28,32 Notice, Joseph is in a strange land where the God of Jacob is not worshipped. However he still expresses his knowledge that ‘God’ has provided the explanation.
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Peter

God was with Joseph. He had plans for him. That is why Joseph was kept in that prison, ready for Pharaoh’s call. And that is also why Joseph was made 2nd ruler, so that Jacob and the twelve tribes could be saved.


David Simpson [Birmingham Kings Norton (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to David
Gen 41:12  "Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph" (Gen 40:23) God did not forget, circumstances forced the butler to remember and he told Pharaoh about Joseph, and he was able to interpret the dream. We must always keep in mind that God will not or can not forget. The Psalmist was aware of this as he wrote the 34th. Psalm. "The eyes of the Lord are upon the rightous and His ears are open to their cries" (Psa 34:15)
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to John

 

Joseph can be considered a type of Christ.  Here we see him starting his administration at aged thirty, paralleling the start of Jesus' ministry at the same age. Like Job, another type of Christ, Joseph was sorely tried before he was elevated to greatness.  Similarly, we as followers of Christ must expect trials before the greatness of our latter end (1Pet 4:12,13).

Before Joseph was presented to Pharaoh he shaved  (v.14).  The custom of the Egyptians (and the Romans) was to be clean shaven while the Jews grew beards.  Joseph also had to change his clothes before coming into the presence of Pharaoh.  Look at the parallels of Joseph and Jesus: they were both bid forth from death (dungeon; grave); they both changed their clothes (Jesus' original clothes were found in the tomb Luke 24:12); their appearance was changed before being presented to their respective authorities (shaved; immortalized ---> Pharaoh; Yahweh).
 
The doubling of a dream, as a confirmation of a Godly vision (v.32), had been experienced by Joseph earlier (Gen 37:6-9).

Interesting how the value of one fifth (v.34) is echoed in the Law (Lev 27).


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Michael
V.33 Joseph here suggests the appointment of a wise man over Egypt, to store the food to be used during the famine, as we are aware Joseph was appointed to that position. This we would suggest was the first step taken for Israel's salvation and also the development of the nation in a strange land. (even though it was promised before.)
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to John
If prisoners carried then the same stigma as they do now in the eyes of the people (People have this wonderful way of considering themselves good unless they get caught!) and we have no reason to assume that human nature would be any different, Joseph must have had a lot of trouble, when he first rose to the position Pharaoh gave him, from those around him, who doubtless would have considered him not fit for the job.  While we are sympathising with Joseph in this predicament, let us at the same time look and be sure that we do not despise any of those that God has called.
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter

41:32 The doubling of the dreams indicating certainty is rather like the law which is given alter – in the mouth of two … witnesses Deut 17:6


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter
V.16 Joseph shows the humility he possessed, by the denial of having any special ability or talent as he stood before Pharaoh. He clearly stated that it was God who would provide Pharaoh the answer of peace.
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2006      reply to John
v42 the description of Joseph's elevation from servant/prisoner to Pharaoh's right-hand man is similar to the description of the elevation of the prodigal son by his father Luke 15:22
Wendy Johnsen [Nanaimo, BC, Canada]     Comment added in 2006      reply to Wendy
STORE IT UP
 
The life of Joseph is full of patterns reflecting for us the life of Jesus, our own lives, and the time of the end. One of those types or patterns could be very relevant to us living in the last days. The one I am thinking of concerns the dreams of Pharaoh and the advice of Joseph.
 
Pharaoh dreamed about fat cows and skinny cows, healthy ears of corn and thin ears of corn. God, through Joseph, interpreted the dream for Pharaoh saying that there was a time coming when Egypt would experience seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Joseph's advice was that Pharaoh should store up produce in the seven years of plenty so that there would be enough saved to get them through the seven years of famine.
 
If a time of trouble is going to come on the earth before Jesus returns, it could mean that with persecution we could experience a famine of the word of God. Churches may be disbanded, leading Christians killed, our Bible's may be confiscated. So let use the years of plenty we have now to store up on spiritual food to get us through any years of famine that might come.
 
The corn in Egypt was saved consistently little by little, so let us do the same. Let's not get complacent in our plenty but store up what we have been given for possible hard times ahead.

Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)]     Comment added in 2006      reply to Robert

41:46 In saying that Joseph was 30 when he stood before Pharaoh has him starting his work of the salvation of his people at the same age that Jesus started his ministry – Luke 3:23


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2007      reply to Peter

41:9-10        The way in which Joseph ended up in prison so that the butler and baker could tell him their dreams demonstrates the detailed way in which God was involved in Joseph’s life, though doubtless at the time Joseph only saw problems.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Peter
Gen 41:14 Joseph arising from the dungeon is not unlike Christ arising from the pit and they each had new clothes which are perhaps symbolic of righteous garments after resurrection Zech 3:4 .
Charles Link, Jr. [Moorestown, (NJ, USA)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Charles

41:2 There are quite a number of places where the KJV of the Bible presents a picture which might be reminiscent of the English countryside. ‘Meadow’ is one such example. In fact the Hebrew would be better translated ‘reed bed’.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Peter
Gen 41:14 - Joseph here is to stand before Pharaoh. Pharaoh in this story typifies God, notice how Joseph is shaved, and notice how he is given new raiment. Importance is placed upon his physical appearance before such a ruler, he must approach Pharaoh in the right manner. Not unwashed, unshaven and in shabby clothing. You might say that the outward appearance is something not to be concerned with, and that it is from within that is important. This is true, but the outward is governed by the inward. How should we then stand before our God?
David Mitchelson [Ormskirk]     Comment added in 2009      reply to David
Gen 41:33-40 - God gave Joseph wisdom and offers other believers wisdom too (James 1:5).
Charles Link, Jr. [Moorestown, (NJ, USA)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Charles

41:8 It must be that the inability of the magicians to interpret the dreams was of God. Doubtless there were many times that they invented interpretations of dreams to satisfy Pharaoh. But this time they were prevented from concocting an interpretation because God was involved in the big picture of Egypt’s future and His promises to Abraham.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2010      reply to Peter

Seven years is a long time to wait for something promised in a dream, especially when you are newcomer telling everyone else what to do. But Joseph kept his faith and continued to store up grain that whole time (v48-49). This is a good example of what faith is: "The substance of things hoped for" (Heb 11:1). The stored grain was the physical evidence (substance) of the famine to come (hoped for).


Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)]     Comment added in 2010      reply to Rob

Gen 41:40 - Christ will be in charge of his Father's house (the kingdom of God on earth) till all sin is eradicated (1Cor 15:24-28).


Charles Link, Jr. [Moorestown, (NJ, USA)]     Comment added in 2010      reply to Charles
Reading 2 - Psalm 45
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v.1-5 It is hard to think what these words could have meant to David at the time, but to us it is obvious that he is speaking under inspiration about Christ, in a similar way to the way that Solomon did later throughout his song. This Psalm (as Bro. Peter says below) is a Psalm of the resurrection, and as such, these five verses tell us of Jesus' triumph over sin. Read them again in that context. I'm sure you'll agree.
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2001      reply to Peter
v.7 - The concept of righteousness is the concept of the kingdom here, and there is at least an indirect reference to the kingdom age each time we read the word righteousness, as that is the time when righteous reign will occur (Psa.33:5, 99:4). This perhaps gives a little insight into the words of Jesus at his baptism (Matt.3:15). We are reminded on a number of occasions to love righteousness and hate iniquity e.g. Amos 5:15, Heb.1:9
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2002      reply to Peter
What was the first thing Jesus would smell on the resurrection morning? Psalm 45:8 'all thy garments smell of myrrh and aloes'  Psalm 45 is a Psalm of the resurrection. [Heb.1:9] which is speaking of the risen Christ. Myrrh and aloes occur together rarely in Scripture Psalm 45:8 Prov.7:17 SofS.4:14 John 19:39. The Song of Solomon reference shows that the bridegroom views  the bride, still in her mortal state, as having the 'odour of  the resurrection'
45:13 06441
 - 'Within' - used exclusively of the temple/tabernacle. Lev.10:18 1Kings 6:18,19,21,29,30 2Kings  7:11 2Chron. 3:4  29:16,18, here, Eze. 40:16, 41:3. The 'king's daughter' is the ecclesia which is 'the temple of the living God' [2Cor.6:16]
I am sure you will see the beauty of these points.  had you ever wondered what Jesus smelt on the resurrection morning?  He would awake to the realisation that he was alive for evermore.  The first certain proof that his confidence was justified.  Then the odour of the myrrh and aloes and his mind would go to Psalm 45 and, I suggest,
SofS.4:14. Thinking of the ecclesia that he had 'bought' may well have caused him to think on Psalm 22:22 'I will declare thy name unto my brethren in the midst of the ecclesia will I sing praise unto thee'  Also Psalm 31:5 'thou hast redeemed me ...' continuing the verse which he quoted in his dying moments on the cross 'into thy hands I commit my spirit ...' [Luke 23:46]. Wonderful!!!

Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Peter
Psalm 45 - "To the chief musician upon Shoshannim" - (beginning of Psalm 45) properly belongs as a subscription of Psalm 44. "For the sons of Korah, a Maschil (teaching song), A Song of loves" is the superscription and the true beginning of Psalm 45. Whilst this Psalm (45) was probably written to commemorate an event now in the past, the tone and subject of this Psalm tell us much about Christ's union to His Bride in the very near future.
 
Psalm 45:12 - "And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift" - In the time of the psalmist, Tyre was probably the most wealthy and luxurious commercial town then existing; and it is referred to here as meaning that persons of highest rank, and of the greatest riches, and those who were surrounded most by affluence and luxury, would come to honour the king [Solomon & his marriage to Pharaoh's daughter?]  Even the daughter of the magnificent prince of Tyre would deem it an honour to be present with a gift becoming her exalted station, and properly representing the wealth of a king of so much magnificence. This is the imagery. As applied to Messiah, it is a description of the honour which would be shown to "Him" by those of highest rank and largest wealth. Compare Isaiah 60. Some think that the prophetic application of this reference here, is to Britain at least, if not to all those English speaking, and sympathetic trading nations who will have vast stores of wealth available for the King's enterprises when He has taken His Bride out of all the nations to Himself, and established His Father's glory here on earth.

Cliff York [Pine Rivers (Aus)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Cliff
45:2 ‘grace is poured into thy lips’ is seen to have its fulfilment in Jesus (Luke 4:22)
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Peter

Psa 45:10  In this Messianic Psalm we once again receive much exhortation. A quick look at V.10 

 
HEARKEN
Attend to the Word
CONSIDER
Apply its priniples
INCLINE
Render obedience
FORGET
Separate your self


John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to John
In v.17, is he referring to his recording of the Psalms, or something else, I wonder?
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter
Psa 45:6,7 are quoted in Heb 1:8,9 as applying to Jesus Christ. It's a fair assumption therefore that the whole Psalm applies to Christ.  What a wonderful picture then we get of Jesus in vereses such as Psa 45:2, "Grace is poured into thy lips".  It was very early in Christ's ministry that they "all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth." (Luke 4:22)
David Simpson [Birmingham Kings Norton (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to David

45:10    The call to ‘incline thine ear’ is the exhortation of Deut 6 to Israel.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter
This psalm concerns the resurrection of Christ and His relation with His bride, the ecclesia, after the resurrection.  See v.8; Song 4:14; John 19:39 for connection. 
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2006      reply to Michael
This psalm's language reminds me strongly of Rev 19:11-16 where Jesus is seen riding forth to conquer, and at which time he will claim his bride.
Wendy Johnsen [Nanaimo, BC, Canada]     Comment added in 2006      reply to Wendy

45:11 The one who is to brought to the king is the bride. It is therefore, speaking of us. Do we ever wonder whether Jesus will ‘greatly desire’ us when he returns?


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2007      reply to Peter

45:3The sword of the Psalm is also found in Song 5:8


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Peter

It is clear from the words of this Psalm that this is a prophecy of Jesus. So how can Jesus be called "God" in verses 6-7? Well, one might think this was a complex question, but as always, God has given us the answer in His scripture. If we simply look at the context of where this passage is quoted (Heb 1:6), we read:

"God has spoken to us by His son... being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person" (Heb 1:2-3).

So quite simply: the son is the very image of his Father, and just as you or I can be called by the name of our parent, Jesus could be called by the name of his. And just as you or I can remind others of our parents by our looks, mannerisms, and way of speech; so could Jesus.


Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Rob

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MARRIAGE

 

Psalm 45 is a song of celebration for the wedding day of the king and his bride. It also contains some really good advice for couples who are planning to be married and even for couples who are already married. The advice is specifically addressed to the bride, but there are lessons for both bride and groom.

 

"Listen, O daughter, consider and give ear: forget your people and your fathers house. The king is enthralled by your beauty; honour him, for he is your Lord." (Psa 45:10-11)

 

Firstly, the bride was told to forget her people and her father's house. Married couples are called to leave their parents and to establish their own new family together. Parents and in-laws can cause a lot of tension in the life of married children when they refuse to let go. A husband and wife need to be devoted to each other above the attachment to parents.

 

Secondly, we read that the king is enthralled by the beauty of his bride. Wives need to show themselves attractive to their husbands (men are very visual creatures), and men need to express to their wives their appreciation of the beauty of their wife.

 

Lastly, the bride was told to honour her man, "for he is your Lord." Men need to be honoured and respected. God made us that way, but we also need to earn the honour and respect our wives should show.

 

These are three brief instructions, yet profound enough to make a life time of difference to a godly marriage.


Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Robert

45:7  Hating wickedness contrasts powerfully with Psa 52:3. Doeg is so different from David.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Peter

45:6 It is often the case that we, when we know that what we are seeking to implement is ‘truth’, we seem to forget ‘meekness’ Paul told Timothy - 2Tim 2:25 - to use meekness when instructing those in error. Maybe we could learn from this.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2010      reply to Peter
Reading 3 - Matthew  27
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v..9-10. In actual fact this prophecy is not recorded in Jeremiah. He must have said it as well, but our record is in Zech 11:12-13. It is a pretty amazing piece of prophecy nevertheless. If we are looking for detailed prophecy to prove things to our friends, here is, I suggest, a good place to turn. How could such accurate details be written all those years previously without the hand of God to guide it?
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2001      reply to Peter
:24 In washing his hands and speaking of the innocent blood of Jesus Pilate is invoking the provision [Deuteronomy 21:6-8] given in the law when a dead body is found near to a city. In making this appeal Pilate both shows he awareness of the Jewish law and dissociated himself from the actions - though of course he was still culpable for Jesus' death
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2002      reply to Peter
:62 In saying 'Answerest thou nothing' we see that Jesus stood silent. We might think of Isaiah 53:7 but also look at Psalm 39 as a commentary of the behaviour of Jesus and others at the trials.
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Peter

Matthew 27:1 - "When the morning was come" - This was not long after Jesus had been condemned by the Sanhedrin. Peter’s last denial was probably not far from three o’clock a. m., or near the break of day. As soon as it was light, the Jews consulted together for the purpose of taking his life. The sun rose at that season of the year in Judea not far from five o’clock a.m., and the time when they assembled, therefore, was not long after Peter’s denial.

"The chief priests and elders of the people took counsel" - They had, at his illegal trial - Matthew 26:65-66 - agreed that he deserved to die, "on a charge of blasphemy;" yet they did not dare to put him to death by stoning, as they did afterward Stephen - Acts 7 - and as the law commanded in case of blasphemy, for they feared the people. They therefore "consulted," or took counsel together, to determine on what pretence they could deliver Him to the Roman emperor, or to fix some charge of a civil nature by which Pilate might be induced to condemn Him. The charge which they fixed on was not that on which they had tried Him, and on which they had determined He ought to die, but "that of perverting the nation, and of forbidding to give tribute to Caesar," - Luke 23:2. On this accusation, if made out, they supposed Pilate could be induced to condemn Jesus. On a charge of "blasphemy" they knew he could not, as that was not an offence against the Roman laws, and over which, therefore, Pilate claimed no jurisdiction.

"To put him to death" - Having got Jesus in their clutches at last, they were desperate to devise some way by which He might be put to death under the authority of the Roman governor.

Matthew 27:38 - Why was Jesus crucified between two thieves? Do they represent Adam and Eve who grasped at equality with the Elohim [angels] in the beginning? - Genesis 3:22. Or do the two thieves represent Jew and Gentile, both of whom have robbed God of HIS glory betimes? Or maybe they represent those who cannot repent, and those who do repent at last? To be certain, we are all "thieves" having robbed God of the full influence HE might have had in each of our lives. One wonders what was going through the minds of James and John and Jesus' Aunty Salome as they viewed this horrific scene, for it was they who had petitioned Jesus for the right and left hand positions in His cabinet should the Kingdom have been established at that time. No wonder Jesus had admonished them, "ye know not what ye ask" - Matthew 20:20-24.


Cliff York [Pine Rivers (Aus)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Cliff
v.3-8 - Difficulties appear when comparing with Acts 1:18. The first is who bought the field, the Priests or Judas. The second is what funds Judas used to puchase the 'field', thirdly whether Judas 'hanged himself' (Matthew) or 'fell headlond and burst asunder' (Acts). And lastly we shall note that in both instances reference is to 'the field of blood'.

The first two are resolved by noting that the Greek word for field in Matthew is 'agros', commonly meaning a piece of ground as normally meant by 'field'. That in Acts is 'chorion' better rendered by our word 'smallholding'. That they are different transactions is emphasised by the different verbs applied to the aquisitions. The priests 'bought', Greek 'agorazo'= 'to buy on the in the open market' whereas Judas 'purchased', Greek 'ktomai',= to aquire for oneself (from 'ktema'= a possession'). It seems likely therefore that Acts is recording what has only now become apparent, that (John 12:6) 'Judas was a thief', and that he had been salting away funds over a long peiod to aquire this smallholding for a personal possession (remember it was said of all the apostles 'we have left all and followed thee').

The rather gruesome explanation of the details of Judas' death may now be reconciled thus. Judas in his remorse fled to his smallholding, remote from the city, and there hanged himself and was not found for some time. His body may well have hung and decayed there in isolation, until the rope rotted and he fell headlong with the associated detail of Acts 1:18, and was subsequently found..

The apparent problem of two separate parcels of ground being called 'the field of blood is answered by the note earlier that the words for field are different. One became known as the 'field of blood', the other, 'Aceldama' was the 'smallholding of blood' fboth so called for different reasons, points so clear in the Greek as to allow no confusion See Sidlow Baxter, 'Studies in Problem Texts'.


Derek Palmer [Tenby (UK)]     Comment added in 2003      reply to Derek
27:5 That Judas ‘hanged himself’ clearly matches Ahithophel (2Sam 17:23) but remember ‘cursed if every one that hangeth on a tree’ (Deut 21:23). Was this a mark of Judas’ sorrow?
Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Peter
v.18 - In recognising that Jesus had been delivered to death for envy Pilate unwittingly shows us a parallel with Joseph whose brethren delivered him to slavery (and it would have been death if it had not been for Reuben's intervention) for envy. Gen 37:11
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Peter
Matt 27:26  When ever we read of the events surrounding our Lord's trial and death, there appears so much is missing with the use of the word SCOURGED. It just does not say enough. The Greek word is phragelloo (5417) Which means to whip. Vines says the whip was made up of leather thongs weighted with sharp pieces of bone or lead. Holman's dictionary describes scourging as a whipping, with 13 strokes of the whip on the chest, along with 13 strokes on each shoulder. When we realize what was involved, it provides us with a greater appreciation of the suffering of our Lord.     
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to John

 

V.17  Pilate asks the Jews to choose who they would like to be released, Barabbas or Jesus the Christ.
Some manuscripts name Barabbas more fully as Jesus Barabbas. That would mean his name literally meant  Savior, Son of the Father.  How ironic as this title is also attributable to the Lord Jesus.
Both Barabbas and Jesus the Christ were incarcerated.  One emerged forth to life and the other condemned to death.
Is this not showing us, like the situation with the butler and baker who we read about yesterday in Gen. 40, the death and resurrection of the Son of God?


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Michael

Verse 39 tells us 'they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, and saying 'thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself.  If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross'

Amazingly, these 'passers by' were mocking Jesus for words he had said near the start of his ministry, when he cleansed the temple.

Its hard to think that 'passers by', would have remembered what he had said all that time ago?  This phrase he used was quoted on one other occasion - that is at his trial.

In the previous chapter the chief priests and the elders, in their desperation, illegally sought false witness against Jesus, no doubt offering money to any man that successfully brought a conviction.  Two witnesses at the last came and quoted this phrase, trying to condemn Christ.

However, their false statements were not enough to bring about the conviction.  So no doubt they did not get their reward.  Had those chief priests and those elders obeyed the letter of the law, we read in Deut 19 that it should not have been Christ nailed to the cross, but these two,
having brought about false accusations.

Is it not possible, therefore, that these 'passers by' were people we read about yesterday?  Two people who didn't get their money.  Two people who were bragging because it was Christ suffering on the cross and not them.

The heart truly is deceitfully wicked.


Tom Nightingale [Birmingham Kings Norton (UK)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Tom

 

Iv.43 the Jews are quoting (unwittingly?) from Psa 22:8.  The Lord hearing this answers them (Prov 26:5) by quoting Psa 22:1(v.46).  He is telling onlookers to read all of Ps. 22 and understand what was written about Him, and believe.


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2004      reply to Michael

 

As he hung, dying in agony, upon the cross, Jesus reiterates the beginning words of Psalm 22 (v.46).  He had been mocked by the Jews (Mark 15:29-32).  Then, he utters the words which would have been recognized by the Jews, in Aramaic, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?  If they had thought about the psalm, they would have understood that it spoke of Him.  But their hearts were hardened. Ironically, a gentile, who probably was not familiar with Psalm 22 embraced Him (Mark 15:39).
The first part of Ps. 22 describes a sense of being cut off from God. Jesus and His Father always had an uncommonly close relationship (
John 5:19-21, 10:30, 14:11).  Could it be that the Father withdrew His presence and left Jesus to suffer his final moments on the cross alone?


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Michael
v.1 tells us that it was all the chief priests and elders of the people - sounds like quite an unusual gathering.  This was a big event for them.  Look at the power that was needed to bring procedings against this man!
Peter Cresswell [Derby Bass Street (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter
HONOUR GOD
 
One of the amazing things about the character of Jesus was the way he refrained from defending himself against all the accusations that were hurled against him. Even if the accusations had been true and we were in the same position as our Lord, we would have felt compelled to justify what we had done and to make ourselves seem more innocent than we were made out to be. How much more true is this of us, when, like Jesus, we are accused falsely of things that are totally untrue.  Our reaction would be our immediate defense against the slander of our character.
 
But though Jesus was accused by false witnesses, and of crimes he was innocent of, he didn't answer any of those charges.  Throughout the trial in the Sanhedrin, Jesus remained silent. (Matt 26:63) And in his trial before Pilate "Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge." (27:14) One reason for his silence was that God would be honoured above his own honour.
 
Let's make sure we honour God above ourselves in whatever situation we find ourselves in. Give God glory and show ourselves to be humble.

Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Robert
V.29,46 - my comments in Psa.22:1 may be somewhat relevant to these two verses referring to "crown of thorns, sabachthani, forsaken".
Charles Link, Jr. [Moorestown, (NJ, USA)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Charles

27:31  The mocking of Jesus contrasts the way in which Herod was 'mocked' by the 'wise men' in Matt 2:16 when they did not return to Herod to tell him the whereabouts of Jesus.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2005      reply to Peter
The dear Lord Jesus Christ knew that He had to die. He understood God’s plans, that the world could only be offered salvation by the death of a sinless man. So when Jesus’ body was buried in the tomb in the garden (see John 19:41), here He was being returned to mother earth.  He had been born of Mary, and in a sense this part of Him was returned to the place, the earth (and a garden), where Adam had come from. So this burial of the Lord was highly symbolic.

David Simpson [Birmingham Kings Norton (UK)]     Comment added in 2006      reply to David
v4 the Jews disclaim responsibility, telling Judas that it's his responsibility, v24 has Pilate disclaiming responsibility, and v25 has the responsibilty finally devolving on the people (egged on by the chief priests & elders). This is reminiscent of Eden Gen 3:12,13 where responsibility is passed along the line, but all are judged, nevertheless. The end of the line in Genesis was the serpent, and in Matthew is the Jewish people, the enemies of Christ.
Wendy Johnsen [Nanaimo, BC, Canada]     Comment added in 2006      reply to Wendy

27:1 ‘elders … to death’ quotes and echoes the sentiments of Psa 31:13


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2007      reply to Peter

27-31 Between the scourging and Christ's crucifixion, Matthew gives the most complete list of the mocking that he suffered

 
He was disrobed
Re robed him in a military garment
Crowned him with a crown of thorns
Placed a reed in his right hand (a king must have scepter in his hand)
Adored him saying "Hail, king of the Jews"
Spat on him
Hit him, with the scepter on his head

The more we consider these events the greater appreciation we develope about the suffering and humiliation that our future king underwent.


John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)]     Comment added in 2007      reply to John

27:3-10      The events recorded in these verses are a digression, it seems. Doubtless Judas did not do all these things on the night in which Jesus was betrayed. All the gospels are silent as to when Judas hung himself after returning the money to the chief priests. However it is most improbable that these events took place before the actual death of Jesus.


Peter Forbes [Glenfield (UK)]     Comment added in 2008      reply to Peter

 

There is an interesting point regarding vs.9,10.  Although Jeremiah is given credit for having spoken the words quoted, they actually appear in Zech 11:12,13.  In Jesus' day, the books of the prophets began with Jeremiah.  The lead book was mentioned by name for any material that was contained in that (prophetical) group, rather than the name of the specific book (in this case Zechariah). 


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Michael

 

Vs.9,10 Although Jeremiah is given credit for having spoken the words quoted, they actually appear in Zech 11:12,13.  In Jesus' day, the books of the prophets began with Jeremiah.  The lead book was mentioned by name for any material that was contained in that (prophetical) group, rather than the name of the specific book (in this case Zechariah). 

Vs. 43,46 The Jews are quoting (unwittingly?) from Psa 22:8.  The Lord hearing this, answers them by quoting Psa 22:1.  He is telling onlookers to read all of Ps. 22 and understand what was written about Him, and believe.

V.46 As he hung, dying in agony, upon the cross, Jesus reiterates the beginning words of Psalm 22.  He had been mocked by the Jews (Mark 15:29-32).  Then, he utters the words which would have been recognized by the Jews, in Aramaic, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?  

If they had thought about the psalm, they would have understood that it spoke of Him.  But their hearts were hardened. Ironically, a Gentile, who probably was not familiar with Psalm 22 embraced Him (Mark 15:39).

The first part of Ps. 22 describes a sense of being cut off from God. Jesus and His Father always had an uncommonly close relationship (John 5:19-21;10:30; 14:11).  Could it be that the Father withdrew His presence and left Jesus to suffer his final moments on the cross alone?


Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Michael

As has been remarked by others, v9-10 isn't quoted from Jeremiah but from Zechariah. So why does Matthew mention Jeremiah?

When we find such anomalies in scripture, God is saying "This is important. Go and do some digging!" So the Spirit means us to link Zech 11 and Matt 27 with Jer 32 which speaks of Jeremiah buying a field for pieces of silver. Some verses which immediately stand out are Jer 32:26-33 and in particular v32 "their kings, their princes, their priests, their prophets, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem" who were the multitude condemning Jesus, bringing upon themselves the prophecy spoken by Jeremiah in v31. Thus we are being told that the death of Jesus was a culmination of the wickedness of Jerusalem, yet his act of self sacrifice would seal the "everlasting covenant" which would ultimately lead to its restoration (Jer 32:37-44).


Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)]     Comment added in 2009      reply to Rob
Matt 27:18 - "For envy they had delivered him". The Lord Jesus has nothing, no worldy standing, no possessions so what did they envy him for? It was for his wisdom, and the gracious words that he spoke, how the people regarded him throughout the lands, his influence on the crowds that gathered and of course when he was confronted by the scribes and pharisees he often left them completely speechless. This they hated.
David Mitchelson [Ormskirk]     Comment added in 2009      reply to David