Matthew 27:39-40

The Romans crucified people publicly to be an example to others. Evidently the site of Jesus’ crucifixion was beside a road. Israel’s leaders had charged Jesus with being a blasphemer because of His claim to be the One they would see seated at God’s right hand (Matthew 26:64). Matthew pointed out that the people passing by were really the ones blaspheming since they charged Jesus unjustly (cf. Matthew 9:3; Matthew 12:31; Matthew 26:65). Their derision fulfilled prophecy (Psalms 22:7; Psalms 109:25; Lamentations 2:15). These blasphemers continued to question Jesus’ identity (cf. Matthew 26:63). Like Satan they tempted Him to prove who He was by demonstrating His identity in a way contrary to God’s will (cf. Matthew 4:3; Matthew 4:6). Here Matthew showed the Jews mocking Jesus as the Romans had done earlier (Matthew 27:27-31).