Understanding Matthew 27:45
Matthew 27:45 states: "Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour." This profound verse occurs at a pivotal moment during the crucifixion of Jesus, and its implications are deeply significant in the context of Christian theology.
Contextual Background
This verse falls within the narrative of the Passion of Christ, specifically the account of His crucifixion. It marks the period of deep sorrow and spiritual significance. Darkness enveloping the land can be seen as a physical manifestation of the spiritual heaviness and despair that accompanied the death of the Savior.
Exegesis from Public Domain Commentaries
Insights from Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry comments on the significance of darkness symbolizing divine judgment. He points out that this extraordinary event illustrates the severity of the moment—God's judgment being cast upon sin. The darkness is not merely physical but represents the spiritual desolation associated with sin's weight.
Albert Barnes’ Commentary
Albert Barnes elaborates that this darkness signifies the withdrawal of divine favor and presence during Christ's suffering. He connects this event to prophetic fulfillment, hinting at the Old Testament themes where darkness is associated with judgment (Amos 8:9-10). The absence of light during Christ's crucifixion serves as a visual cue to the gravity of the sins being atoned for.
Adam Clarke’s Observations
Adam Clarke focuses on the dramatic impact of the darkness, suggesting it represents a cosmic upheaval indicating the momentous nature of Christ's sacrifice. This event aligns with various Old Testament prophecies, reinforcing the belief that Jesus' crucifixion ushered in a new spiritual covenant.
Thematic Connections
- Judgment: The darkness reflects divine judgment (Isaiah 13:10).
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: Connects to the prophecy of Joel (Joel 2:31).
- Cosmic Significance: Represents the cosmic response to Jesus' sacrifice (Romans 8:22).
- Isolation of Sin: Emphasizes the effect of sin that separates humanity from God (Isaiah 59:2).
- Jesus as the Light: Contrast with John 8:12, where Jesus identifies Himself as the Light of the World.
- Connection to the Exodus: Similar darkness occurred during the plagues in Exodus (Exodus 10:21-23).
- Divine Absence: Reflects on moments of divine silence or absence in scripture (Psalms 22:1).
Bible Cross-References
Several Bible verses resonate with the themes and implications of Matthew 27:45:
- Amos 8:9: "And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord GOD, that I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day."
- Joel 2:31: "The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes."
- Exodus 10:21-22: The plague of darkness over Egypt corresponds to the darkness at the crucifixion.
- Psalms 22:1: "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" capturing the sense of abandonment felt by Christ.
- Romans 8:22: "For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now," indicating the creation's response to sin.
- John 1:5: "And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not," revealing the ongoing battle between light and darkness.
- Luke 23:44-45: The Gospel of Luke elaborates on this darkness occurring during Christ's crucifixion, affirming its significance.
Conclusion
Matthew 27:45 serves not only as a historical account but as a theological cornerstone reflecting both the weight of Christ's sacrifice and the fulfillment of prophecy. The darkness that fell during the crucifixion symbolizes the complex interplay of sin, judgment, and the hope of redemption. The scripture invites believers into a deeper understanding of the gravity of sin, the nature of God's judgment, and the profound significance of Christ as the Light conquering darkness.
