ISB ~ Matthew 27 v29

King of the Jews!:A title suggested by the Sanhedrin and used mockingly by the soldiers (Lk 23:2). It is also the transcription on Jesus’ Cross (27:37). The wise men are the only figures in Matthew to use the title in a positive and honorable way (2:2).

• Allegorically: the title and articles used to slander Jesus signify his kingship and triumph over sin. The scarlet robe (27:28) represents Jesus’ defeat of Satan through his shed blood; the crown of thorns (27:29) points to the crown of glory that adorns Jesus at his Ascension; the reed (27:29) signifies the scepter of his heavenly kingdom. Through these images, Christ’s victory is paradoxically announced in the midst of his apparent defeat.