They Crucified Him

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | March 29, 2024 | John 19:14-19

KEY VERSE:

¹⁷ Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). ¹⁸There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle. John 19:17-18 (NIV)

MESSAGE

In today’s passage, we are confronted with the solemn moment when Jesus is led away to be crucified. This passage marks the culmination of Jesus' earthly ministry, as He willingly submits to the horrific death of crucifixion. As we reflect on this event, we are reminded of the depth of Jesus' love for us and the sacrifice He made for our salvation. Crucifixion was a brutal form of execution reserved for the worst criminals. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, endured this agonising death to pay the price for our sins and reconcile us to God.

Jesus' crucifixion was not a random event but the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies. This demonstrates God's sovereign plan and Jesus' role as the promised Messiah. Jesus' willingness to endure crucifixion demonstrates His immense love for us. He chose to suffer and die so that we might have eternal life. Through His death on the cross, Jesus offers redemption and forgiveness to all who believe in Him. His sacrifice opens the door to reconciliation with God. The crucifixion of Jesus challenges us to examine our lives and turn away from sin. It calls us to embrace the forgiveness and salvation offered through His death.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE

How does Jesus' crucifixion impact your understanding of God's love for you? In what ways can you respond to Jesus' sacrifice in your daily life? As we contemplate the crucifixion of Jesus, may we be reminded of the depth of His love for us and the sacrifice He made for our salvation. May His death on the cross inspire us to live lives that honour and glorify Him.

PRAYER

Dear Lord, thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, on the cross. Help me to never take for granted the price He paid for my sins. May His death be a constant reminder of your love for me and a source of strength and inspiration in my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: CRUCIFIED

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In the Greek New Testament, the word "crucified" is translated as "σταυρόω" (stauroō), derived from the noun "σταυρός" (stauros), which means "cross." This word carries profound theological significance, as it represents not just a physical act of execution but also the spiritual redemption of humanity. The act of crucifixion was one of the most brutal forms of punishment in the ancient world, reserved for the most heinous crimes and the lowest of society. Jesus, the Son of God, willingly submitted himself to this excruciating death, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament and demonstrating his unconditional love for humanity.

The Greek word "stauroō" not only describes the physical act of affixing someone to a cross but also carries deeper symbolic meaning. It signifies the bearing of sin and the atonement for humanity's transgressions. Through his death on the cross, Jesus took upon himself the sins of the world, offering salvation and reconciliation to all who believe in him.

Furthermore, the Greek word "stauros" implies a sense of shame and disgrace associated with crucifixion. Yet, paradoxically, it is through this shameful and humiliating death that Jesus achieved the greatest victory over sin and death, demonstrating the power of God's love and the triumph of grace.

Reflections:

Reflect on the significance of Jesus being crucified for the salvation of humanity. How does his willingness to endure such suffering impact your understanding of God's love and grace?