"The Roman Soldiers"

 

Matthew 27:34-35 "They gave HIM vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when HE had tasted thereof, HE would not drink. And they crucified HIM, and parted HIS garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon MY vesture did they cast lots."

     The Roman soldiers who "watched HIM there" (v.36 pictured above) were proud and self-sufficient, and they had little use for this strange religion of the people they had conquered by their military might. No doubt each individual Roman soldier was just as confident that he was in control of his own destiny as was the government of Rome in its control of Judea. It was simply unthinkable that someone from this conquered, Jewish people, WHO was even now hanging helplessly from their cross, could have the power and the authority to command their respect. They were not answerable to any GOD -- they were Roman ! Undoubtedly, this MAN's death was just another example of religion's futility in making any real difference in the world. Certainly, this JESUS, WHO claimed to be GOD's SON, verified the foolishness of faith !

     They mocked "the KING of the Jews" (v.37 pictured, in part, above). This purported "KING" seemed to have little to offer that could command their respect. The Romans valued authority and power, and from their perspective, this feeble excuse for a potentate evidently had neither (vv.27-30). They divided HIS garments (v.35), having no concern, no respect, and no fear of an ALMIGHTY GOD. Yet, in so doing, they were fulfilling their prophetic part in GOD's eternal plan. Whether they were willing to believe it or not, they would one day stand before this same KING of Kings and LORD of Lords and find that their foolish pride had led to their eternal damnation. Like the Roman soldiers, are you too arrogant or self-reliant to believe in the glorious Gospel of salvation by GOD's grace through faith in JESUS CHRIST alone ? If so, reconsider before it is too late ! DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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