Definition: And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest [it] in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Matthew 27:40. It’s a really dramatic and complex passage about Jesus’ final moments. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jesus was arrested and put on trial for his teachings. He was accused of blasphemy, which is essentially saying he did things that were considered wrong by Jewish law. He was facing execution – a very painful death. What the Verse Says: “And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest [it] in three days, save thyself.” This is where it gets really intense. Here’s what each part means: "Thou that destroyest the temple..." : This refers to the Roman governor, Tiberius, who had already destroyed a significant portion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem before Jesus arrived. The verse suggests that Jesus was deliberately trying to upset the religious establishment. "...and buildest [it] in three days…" : Jesus is saying he's planning to dismantle the temple – a very important place for worship – in just three days. This is a huge claim, suggesting a radical plan of destruction. "Save thyself." : This is the crucial part. Jesus is essentially telling the Roman governor that he is the one who will be killed. He's saying, "If you are the Son of God, then you must die.” The Significance & Interpretation (This is where it gets deeper): Jesus as God: This verse is a core part of Christian belief about Jesus’ divinity. It highlights that Jesus isn't just a human leader; he was considered by many to be the Son of God, and therefore, deserving of final judgment and death. The Trial & Sacrifice: It speaks to the dramatic events leading up to his crucifixion – a trial where he challenged religious norms and faced punishment. A Promise of Salvation: The phrase "save thyself" is often interpreted as a promise that Jesus will ultimately triumph over evil and death, offering salvation for those who believe in him. In short, this verse is a powerful statement about the ultimate fate of Jesus, emphasizing his divine nature and his plan to die on the cross. Important Note: This passage has been subject to much interpretation throughout history. Different theological traditions have different ways of understanding its meaning. --- Would you like me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss how this verse relates to other biblical stories or themes? Compare it to another passage in the Bible?