The crucifixion of Jesus is the central event of the gospel and the ultimate demonstration of God’s love and justice. Jesus was falsely accused, unjustly tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion under Pontius Pilate. Though innocent, He willingly endured suffering for our sins.
He was scourged, mocked, and forced to carry His cross to Golgotha. There, they nailed Him to the cross between two criminals. Luke 23:33-34 says, “When they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him… Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.’”
At noon, darkness covered the land for three hours. Jesus cried out with a loud voice and said, “It is finished!” and then gave up His spirit (John 19:30). At that moment, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, signifying that access to God was now open through His sacrifice (Matthew 27:51).
Jesus died as the Lamb of God, perfect, sinless and offereup up as payment for the sins of the world. Isaiah 53:5 prophesied, “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
The crucifixion fulfilled the Scriptures, secured redemption, and displayed the depths of God’s mercy. It is the foundation of salvation and the message we proclaim.
