Luke 23:35

Luke 23:35

Luke 23:35 describes the crowd and rulers deriding Jesus, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.” This taunt reveals a crowd with mixed motives—some perhaps curious, others hostile—yet all complicit in rejecting Jesus’ mission. The phrase “the chosen of God” echoes Israel’s messianic expectation, raising questions about how people misread divine identity. The derision itself becomes a test of Jesus’ authority: if he truly is Messiah and God’s Anointed, why not display power to rescue himself? Luke uses this derision to underscore the paradox of the cross: the moment of perceived weakness is actually the moment of ultimate victory, accomplished through self-giving love rather than public spectacle. The scene also highlights how spiritual blindness leads to fatal misinterpretation of God’s work.

Theologically, this is a study in divine wisdom counterintuitive to human logic. The cross depicts power perfected in weakness, glory through suffering, and salvation through restraint. The derision exposes humanity’s inability to recognize the divine in its humility. Luke’s depiction invites readers to discern true kingship not by spectacle or conquest but by self-giving love and obedience to the Father. It also connects Jesus’ suffering to fulfilled Scripture, reinforcing the reliability of God’s redemptive plan.

For today, this verse challenges us to resist a consumerist or celebrity-driven Jesus. Practical steps: avoid reducing faith to miraculous displays or political power; instead, seek a deeper understanding of Jesus’ lordship shown in service, forgiveness, and humility. In family life, this means choosing gentleness over aggression, and in leadership, practicing sacrificial service even when it costs. It also invites dialogue about how we define “success” and “power” in our communities, encouraging a reorientation toward God’s kingdom values.

Cross-References: Isaiah 53:3-5; Mark 15:29-32; 1 Corinthians 1:22-25