Matthew 27:39-40

[39] And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, [40] And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If the Son of God, come down from the cross.

What is the context of Matthew 27:39-40?

The King on a Cross (Matthew 27:32-44 true)
The Crucifixion of Jesus .( AJ .) (Matthew 27:32-44 true)
Crucified Between Two Criminals (Matthew 27:32-44 true)
Jesus is Crucified (Matthew 27:32-44 true)
The Crucifixion (Matthew 27:32-56 true)

What does Matthew 27:39-40 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

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 ( Psalm 22:7; Psalm 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).