Despised of the People

"But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people." Psalm 22:6

Now look at these verses at the scene of Jesus' crucifixion:

"And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads... Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders" Matthew 27: 39, 41

"And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him" Luke 23:35

Crucifixions were offensive and heinous. Many of the people that watched Jesus on the cross were active in seeing Him crucified. These verses reflect the reproach they held for Jesus in their hearts. The word "reproach" is defined as "an expression of rebuke or disapproval."

Psalm 22 uses the phrase "despised of the people." Jesus was despised by many people. These verses are excellent at portraying that feeling of contempt and rejection. However, Jesus gave Himself up to be placed on the cross for those very same people that harbored such a feeling of reproach against Him.

And here's the best part! What did Jesus say when all of this was going on? What did Jesus ask God on behalf of the people who were persecuting him? --- "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34