Jesus is Led Away to be Crucified

If you were to look at Rembrandt’s painting of The Three Crosses, your attention would be drawn first to the center cross on which Jesus died. Then as you would look at the crowd gathered around the foot of that cross, you’d be impressed by the various facial expressions an … More

Crucifixion

When Jesus left Pilate’s judgment hall, he was carrying the cross. This was part of a prisoner’s humiliation that he carry his own cross. However, because of physical exhaustion Jesus was unable  to carry it very far. A man named Simon, from the town of Cyrene in North Africa, was forced to carry it (v. 26). Luke is the only gospel that mentions the tears of the Jewish women while Jesus was being led through the streets to his execution (vv. 27-31). He told them not to weep for Him but for themselves. He knew that in only about 40 years, Jerusalem and the temple would be destroyed by the Romans.

The place called Calvary was probably located on a hill outside Jerusalem along a main road. The Romans executed people publicly as examples to the people who passed by (vv. 32-33). The places on Jesus right and on his left were taken by two criminals. This shows how a person who wants to be close to Jesus must also be prepared to suffer and die also. Jesus asked the Father to forgive the people who were putting him to death (v. 34). Roman soldiers customarily divided up the clothing of executed criminals among themselves and this was no exception. Several Old Testament prophesies were fulfilled as Jesus was crucified (vv. 35-43):

  1. He died between two thieves (Isa. 53:12)
  2. The soldiers gambled for His clothes (Psa. 22:18)
  3. They mocked Him (Psa. 22:6-8)
  4. They offered Him vinegar to drink (Psa. 69:21)

Application

Jesus’ final statement from the cross was, “Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit.” Because I know Jesus as my Savior I can die with this same confidence and assurance (Phil. 1:20-23).

Luke 23:26-43 (English Standard Version)


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