Mark 15:25

And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

And {G1161} it was {G2258} the third {G5154} hour {G5610}, and {G2532} they crucified {G4717} him {G846}.

It was nine in the morning when they nailed him to the stake.

It was the third hour when they crucified Him.

And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

Commentary

Mark 15:25 KJV: "And it was the third hour, and they crucified him."

Context

This concise verse marks a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Mark's passion narrative, directly following Jesus' condemnation by Pontius Pilate and the mocking by the soldiers. The "third hour" indicates 9:00 AM according to the Roman reckoning of time, where the day began at 6:00 AM. This precise detail sets the stage for the culmination of Jesus' earthly ministry and suffering. The act of crucifixion itself was a brutal and humiliating method of execution employed by the Roman Empire, reserved for the worst criminals and rebels, designed to maximize public suffering and deter dissent. Jesus, though innocent, was subjected to this horrific death, fulfilling ancient prophecies.

Key Themes

  • The Precision of God's Timing: The specific mention of "the third hour" underscores the precise, divine timing of Jesus' sacrifice. Even in the midst of human injustice and cruelty, God's sovereign plan was unfolding exactly as purposed from eternity. This timing is a testament to the meticulous fulfillment of God's redemptive agenda.
  • The Depths of Christ's Suffering: The stark declaration "and they crucified him" encapsulates the immeasurable physical and spiritual agony Jesus endured. This was not merely an execution but a profound act of self-sacrifice, where the Son of God bore the sins of humanity. It highlights the immense cost of redemption and the love that motivated Jesus to endure such torment.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the event of the crucifixion is the ultimate fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies concerning the suffering Messiah. From the sacrificial lamb to the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53, Jesus' crucifixion was the culmination of God's long-foretold plan for salvation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the third hour" (Greek: tritē hōra, τρίτη ὥρα) directly translates to the third hour of the day, placing the crucifixion at approximately 9:00 AM. This detail is significant when comparing the passion narratives, as John's Gospel mentions Pilate's judgment taking place around the "sixth hour" (John 19:14). While some scholars reconcile this by suggesting different timekeeping methods (Jewish vs. Roman) or textual variations, Mark's account firmly places the beginning of the crucifixion at this early morning hour.

The verb "crucified" (Greek: estaurōsan, ἐσταύρωσαν) is a direct, unvarnished statement of the brutal act. It emphasizes the active role of those who carried out the execution, yet implicitly points to the divine allowance for this event to transpire.

Practical Application

Mark 15:25 serves as a powerful reminder of the central event of Christian faith: the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. It calls believers to:

  • Remember the Cost: Reflect on the immense suffering Jesus willingly endured for humanity's salvation, fostering gratitude and deeper devotion.
  • Trust in God's Sovereignty: Even in the darkest moments of injustice and suffering, this verse affirms that God is in control, orchestrating events according to His perfect will and timing.
  • Embrace the Gospel: The crucifixion is the foundation of the good news. Understanding its precise timing and brutal reality helps us appreciate the depth of God's love and the redemption offered through Christ's death (Romans 5:8).
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Cross-References

  • Mark 15:33 (4 votes)

    ¶ And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

  • John 19:14 (4 votes)

    And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!

  • Luke 23:44 (3 votes)

    ¶ And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.

  • Acts 2:15 (3 votes)

    For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is [but] the third hour of the day.

  • Matthew 27:45 (3 votes)

    Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.