In this passage, Matthew records the crucifixion of Jesus between two criminals (Mat. 27:27-44). Before leading Him to the place of crucifixion which was known as the Place of a Skull, Pilate’s soldiers abused and mocked Jesus. They put on Him a scarlet robe, put in His right hand a reed and put a crown of thorns on His head. They said, “Hail, King of the Jews.”
After the soldiers crucified Jesus, they cast lots to divide His garments among them in fulfillment of Scripture (Psalm 22:18). Those who passed by, the chief priests, the scribes, the elders, and even the two criminals reviled Him. Among the things said was, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save.” Though Jesus was able to save Himself, He could not save Himself and others too! That is, in order to save people from eternal damnation, Jesus had to die. The Jewish leaders, mocking Jesus, said, “If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.” Even if Jesus had come down, they probably still would not have believed! Jesus was and is the King, but He also is the Savior Who came from heaven to save His people from their sins (Mat 1:21). And a Savior Who did not die for sins and then rise again could not save anyone, even those who believed in Him. Paul wrote, “And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished” (1 Corinthians 15:17-18).