“The Crucifixion” #3

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20

The cross, comprised of wooden timbers and iron spikes, was the gas chamber or electric chair of the first century. It originated as a means of maximum torture.  First used by the Persians and then adopted by the Romans, the cross was a grim instrument of death. One word could describe the experience of those who died by crucifixion: agony.  Among other things, it was humiliating, tormenting, slow, public, always terminal.

Perhaps to our surprise, however, John’s report of the crucifixion of Jesus fits into his overall purpose in writing this Gospel: to present Jesus Christ as God so that we might put our faith in Him (John 20:30-31). We might wonder how such a despicable, horrible death could proclaim His deity and majesty. But four themes from the crucifixion, selected by John, accomplish that very purpose!

1. Fulfillment of prophecies
2. The sign above the cross
3. His concern for His mother
4. His supernatural knowledge and control

Takeaway:

1. Jesus’ crucifixion calls for a response of faith.
2. Jesus’ crucifixion calls for a response of worship.