Mark 15:28 - The Scripture was fulfilled, which says, “He was counted with transgressors.”

Generated Verse: Mark 15:28

What does "Mark 15:28" mean?


Mark 15:28, "The Scripture was fulfilled, which says, “He was counted with transgressors,” refers to the fulfillment of a prophecy from the Old Testament, specifically Isaiah 53:12. Understanding the meaning requires looking at both the Old Testament passage and the context of Mark 15.

Isaiah 53:12 (part):

"...because he poured out his life unto death,
and was numbered with the transgressors;
for he bore the sin of many,
and made intercession for the transgressors."

Key interpretations of the phrase "counted with transgressors":

Physical Proximity and Public Perception: Jesus was crucified alongside two criminals (thieves or insurrectionists). He was literally positioned between them, treated as one of them by the Roman authorities, and perceived as a criminal by many onlookers. This is the most straightforward and literal interpretation.

Bearing the Guilt of Sinners: The broader context of Isaiah 53 describes the suffering servant who takes on the sins of humanity. Jesus, being "counted with transgressors," symbolizes that he was unjustly treated as if he were a sinner, even though he was innocent. This is because he was bearing the weight of the sins of others.

Solidarity with Sinners: Some interpretations emphasize Jesus' willingness to identify with and be among the marginalized and rejected of society. Being "counted with transgressors" is a demonstration of his profound identification with those who are lost and in need of redemption.

Significance in Mark 15:

Fulfillment of Prophecy: Mark's inclusion of this statement reinforces the idea that Jesus' suffering and death were not accidental or random, but part of God's pre-ordained plan. It emphasizes the divine purpose behind the events unfolding.

Reinforcement of Jesus' Identity: By fulfilling this prophecy, Mark subtly affirms Jesus' messianic identity to his readers. While he is being unjustly condemned, he is simultaneously fulfilling a key aspect of the suffering servant prophecy.

Atonement and Redemption: The verse points to the concept of atonement: Jesus, the innocent one, takes the place of the guilty and bears the consequences of their sin. By being "counted with transgressors," he offers them the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

In summary, the verse "The Scripture was fulfilled, which says, “He was counted with transgressors,” in Mark 15:28 highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, emphasizes Jesus' unjust suffering and identification with sinners, and points towards the redemptive nature of his death. It is both a literal description of his physical situation and a theological statement about the nature of his sacrifice.

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