Matthew 27:31 — English NIRV 1996 - Copyrighted only for Website
After they had made fun of him, they took off the robe. They put his own clothes back on him. Then they led him away to nail him to a cross.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes the soldiers taking Jesus' robe off after they mocked him and putting his own clothes back on before leading him to crucifixion. It shows how they treated Jesus with cruelty despite knowing he was innocent.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your friends took away your favorite shirt, made fun of you, then gave it back just before sending you home crying. That's kind of like what happened to Jesus in this story, but much worse because he was going to be crucified.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this gospel around AD 80-90 for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. The cultural setting involves Roman soldiers mocking and abusing a prisoner they knew was innocent according to their own trial findings.
Living It Out Today
This story reminds us not to mock or abuse others, especially when we know it's wrong. For example, if you see someone being bullied in school, stand up for them instead of joining in the teasing.
