Meaning of Matthew 27:51

Matthew 27:51:

“And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split.”

This verse occurs at the moment of Jesus' death, depicting significant cosmic and spiritual events. Various commentaries provide insights into its meaning and implications.

Significance of the Veil Being Torn

The tearing of the veil represents the end of the separation between God and humanity. The temple veil, which kept the Most Holy Place concealed, symbolizes the barrier that sin created. With the death of Christ, access to God is granted freely to all who believe.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that the veil's tearing signifies the abolishment of the old covenant and the establishment of the new covenant through Christ’s sacrifice. This act illustrates that the way to God is now open for all believers.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights that the tearing of the veil from top to bottom indicates a divine act, showing that God Himself initiated this new way of access. The earthquake and other supernatural events serve to underscore the significance of Christ’s death.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke notes that this event symbolizes God's judgment upon the Jewish nation for rejecting their Messiah. The tearing of the veil marks the significant transition in worship from the temple system to a personal relationship with God through Christ.

Cosmic Events as Testimony

The accompanying phenomena, such as the earthquake and the splitting of rocks, serve as remarkable signs testifying to the monumental effect of Christ's death. These signs demonstrate that the death of Jesus carried profound implications not only for humanity but for all creation.

Inter-Biblical Connections

Related Scripture References

• Exodus 26:31-33: Discusses the original design of the veil in the tabernacle.
• Hebrews 10:19-20: Explains the new access to God through Jesus’ flesh.
• Luke 23:44-45: Offers parallel accounts of the events surrounding Jesus' death.
• Isaiah 53:5: Portrays the suffering servant bearing our sins, anticipating the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
• Mark 15:38: Confirms the tearing of the temple's veil also in Mark's account.
• Romans 8:19-22: Discusses creation's groaning as it longs for redemption, resonating with the earthquake’s symbolism.
• Matthew 28:2: Accounts for the angel's appearance after the resurrection, emphasizing God's power in reversing death.

Thematic Insights

The events at Jesus' crucifixion are filled with themes of redemption, access to God, and the validation of Jesus' identity as the Messiah.

• Redemption: The tearing of the veil illustrates the completion of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus’ sacrifice.
• Access to God: Emphasizes that believers can now approach God with confidence and an assurance of forgiveness.
• Judgment and Renewal: The cosmic signs suggest that God is bringing judgment upon the old covenant and renewing the relationship through Christ.

Conclusion

Matthew 27:51 is a profound moment that encapsulates the essence of the Gospel. It reveals the heart of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, signifying the ultimate victory over sin and death, and the beginning of a new relationship between God and humanity.

In understanding this verse, believers and scholars alike can explore the extensive interconnections present throughout Scripture, utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing to deepen their comprehension of Biblical themes and teachings.