New International Reader's Version

Matthew 27:42-49 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

42. "He saved others," they said. "But he can't save himself! He's the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross! Then we will believe in him.

43. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him. He's the one who said, 'I am the Son of God.' "

44. In the same way the robbers who were being crucified with Jesus also made fun of him.

45. From noon until three o'clock, the whole land was covered with darkness.

46. About three o'clock, Jesus cried out in a loud voice. He said, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" This means "My God, my God, why have you deserted me?" (Psalm 22:1)

47. Some of those standing there heard Jesus cry out. They said, "He's calling for Elijah."

48. Right away one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar and put it on a stick. He offered it to Jesus to drink.

49. The rest said, "Leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him."