Matthew’s account is devoid of the graphic violence, the blood, and prolonged description of the suffering endured.  There is no emphasis on the saving efficacy of the act of crucifixion (as in John and Paul). Matthew’s intent seems to be to affirm his most basic themes:

• This truly is the Messiah, the Son of God
• The one who was rejected by opponents and abandoned by disciples – forming humanity’s response.
• But Jesus has formed a people called out (ekklesia) – Jews and Gentiles alike – who are formed into the people of God in the forgiveness, and

The center of their faith is Jesus, the righteous one who modeled the right relationship with God the Father in life, in word, in act and even in death.