In their introduction to The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, the editors assert: “How messianic prophecy is viewed will ultimately affect the evangelical understanding of the inspiration and interpretation of the Scriptures, the defense of the gospel, and the identification of Jesus as the promised Messiah.” Another scholar summarized, “The issue is...the authority and content of revelation itself!”

At the cross, the disposal of Jesus’ garments fulfilled a Messianic prophecy from Psalm 22:18: “They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.” Overall, this psalm expresses suffering and feeling abandoned by God. Jesus quoted it during the Crucifixion (Ps. 22:1; Matt. 27:46). The Roman soldiers put a purple robe and a “crown” of thorns on Jesus to ridicule His “kingship” (John 19:2–3). They mocked Him during the execution by offering Him wine vinegar, probably as a painkiller (vv. 36–37). The squad of four men divided His clothing into four shares, but to avoid tearing the seamless undergarment, they cast lots for it (v. 34; John 19:23–24). In biblical times, casting lots was sometimes a way of determining the Lord’s will, but here it was like gambling, a game of chance.

Luke created a striking juxtaposition in this narrative. Jesus was on the cross, praying that His enemies would be forgiven. In the very same verse (v. 34), His executioners were dividing His clothing and throwing dice (so to speak) for the nicest piece. The forgiveness was for them as well. Jesus forgave the very men who had mocked Him and driven the nails into His hands and feet. On the one side— power, advantage, exploitation. On the other—weakness, vulnerability, forgiveness. Yet it was the latter that won the victory over sin and death!

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