The Passion and Death of Jesus Christ (Good Friday)

 

 

The Passion and Death of Jesus Christ

 

F.W. Krummacher, in his classic work, “The Suffering Savior” wrote the following, “The path of the holy one of Israel becomes increasingly dark and obscure. The night-piece of His passion carries us from the region of the tragical into that of the appalling. His sufferings increase to torture, His disgrace to infamy; and the words of Isaiah, “He was despised and rejected; and we hid as it were our faces from him,” are completely realized.

 

After the momentous decision has been made at Gabbatha and the lot of the murderer has fallen upon the just, the latter is for a whole removed from the view of people, having been given up to the armed band of executioners’ assistants and led away by them, amid wild uproar, like sheep for the slaughter. Let us follow Him, although we do so with reluctance, but we must be witnesses of the scene, since it is the will of God that we should be aware of what our restoration and redemption cost Him for our surety (pg. 276).”

 

From this passage there are several things the cross challenges us to do.

 

I. Identify with Christ’s Suffering (Matthew 27:32-34)

A. Sharing in Jesus’ Burdens (v. 32): Look at the rude and barbarous beings, who busily surround their victim. Simon of Cyrene carrying the cross illustrates our call to share in Christ's sufferings. We too have been called by God to deny ourselves and take-up our cross and follow Him.

 

B. Acknowledge the Place of Sacrifice (v. 33): Golgotha highlights the significance of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. We too have been called to the place of sacrifice, yet ours is to be living (Rom. 12:1-2).

 

C. Submit to God’s Will (v. 34): Jesus’ refusal of pain relief demonstrates His submission to God’s redemptive plan. So there is to be no refusal in our commitments, no rival for our affections, and no retreat on the journey.

 

II. Recognize Fulfilled Prophecy in Suffering (Matthew 27:35-44)

A. Prophetic Fulfillment in Jesus’ Suffering (v. 35-36): The division of garments fulfills Scripture, affirming God’s sovereign plan. Psalm 22:18 says, "They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots."

 

B. Jesus, the True King (v. 37): The inscription signifies both mockery and the true kingship of Jesus. Isaiah 9:6-7 speaks of a government and kingly dominion being upon the shoulders of the Messiah, and Zechariah 9:9 refers to the king coming to Jerusalem. The inscription ironically confirms the royalty of Jesus, which is a central theme in messianic prophecies.

 

C. Endure Mockery for Righteousness’ Sake (v. 38-44): Jesus’ silent endurance in the face of scorn exemplifies true righteousness. Isaiah 53:7 states: "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."

 

III. Understand the Cosmic Significance of Jesus’ Suffering (Matthew 27:45-50)

A. The Darkness Over the Land (v. 45): Symbolizes the weight of sin and God’s presence during Jesus’ sacrifice.

 

B. Jesus’ Moment of Abandonment (v. 46): His cry reflects the depth of His suffering for humanity’s redemption.

 

C. Ignorance of the Truth (v. 47-49): Misunderstandings reflect human blindness to spiritual realities.

 

D. Jesus’ Voluntary Sacrifice (v. 50): His willing surrender of His life demonstrates His control and purpose.

 

IV. Witness the Transformative Power of Jesus’ Death (Matthew 27:51-56)

A. Direct Access to God (v. 51): The tearing of the temple curtain signifies the open access to God through Christ.

 

B. Assurance of Resurrection Power (v. 52-53): Earthquake and raised saints foreshadow the power of Jesus’ resurrection.

 

C. Acknowledgment of Jesus’ Divinity (v. 54): The centurion’s confession underscores Christ’s divine identity.

 

D. Testimony of the Faithful (v. 55-56): The presence of the women signifies enduring faithfulness to Jesus.

 

V. Honor Christ in Death and Life (Matthew 27:57-61)

A. Active Discipleship in Crisis (v. 57-58): Joseph’s courageous actions highlight our call to serve Christ boldly.

 

B. Fulfillment of Righteous Burial (v. 59-60): Proper burial fulfills prophecy and emphasizes the dignity of Jesus’ sacrifice.

 

C. Faithful Watchfulness (v. 61): The women’s watchfulness models perseverance in faith.

 

Conclusion

1.      Reflect on the Depth of Jesus’ Love: His sacrifice is the ultimate expression of divine love.

 

2.      Respond with a Faithful Commitment: Encourage believers to respond in faith and dedication to Jesus’ mission.

 

Isaac Watts

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride

See from His head His hands His feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did e're such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were a tribute far too small
Love so amazing so divine
Demands my soul my life my all

Love so amazing so divine
Demands my soul my life my all

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