Dividing the garments by lots

The Gospel writers emphasized more on why Jesus had suffered, rather than how much He had suffered. The details of the agony of the crucifixion are not extensively written because it was evident to the readers at that time. However, the reality was extremely gruesome. (1) The moment Jesus was crucified, His joints dislocated, His bones separated, and extreme pain surged. This is a fulfillment of Psalm 22:14, “All my bones are out of joint.” (2) Jesus was crucified on Calvary at 9 am (Mark 15:25). At the same time, on the Temple Mount, the “Passover Lamb” was being sacrificed. This clarifies that Jesus became the “Passover Lamb” to redeem our sins. The garments of the condemned were divided among the soldiers who executed the death sentence. In those days, people wore (1) an outer garment, (2) an inner garment, (3) a cloth covering the head, and (4) sandals. Here, the four soldiers likely divided these four items among themselves. Additionally, there was one more garment left. This garment was woven as one piece from top to bottom. So, the soldiers cast lots for it (ref. John 19:23-24). This fulfills the prophecy of Psalm 22:18, “They divide my garments among them, and they cast lots for my clothing.”

The inscription of the charge

At Pilate’s command, a charge was posted stating “The King of the Jews.” John provides detailed information on this matter (ref. John 19:19-22). According to the account, Pilate had it written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews.” The Jews objected, saying, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews’; rather, write that He said, ‘I am King of the Jews.’” Pilate resisted their request. This was Pilate’s utmost resistance against the Jews. Jesus is not only the “King of the Jews,” but also the “Savior of all humanity.” Jesus suffered on the cross for our sins. In this, is His love. The love of Jesus can never be taken away from us. Today, let’s worship Him, who is the King of kings.