5 Things You May Not Know About the Crucifixion

The crucifixion is often viewed as victory and reverence but have you thought about the deeper aspects of it .

Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecies 

The crucifixion of Jesus is seen as the fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies. For instance, Psalm 22:16-18 describes the piercing of hands and feet and the casting of lots for clothing, which parallels the events of Jesus' crucifixion (John 19:23-24). Isaiah 53 also foretells the suffering servant, whose suffering and death bring redemption to many.

Jesus' Seven Last Words 

The Gospels record seven significant statements that Jesus made while on the cross, often referred to as the "Seven Last Words." These include:

• "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).
• "Today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).
• "Woman, behold your son" and to the disciple, "Behold your mother" (John 19:26-27).
• "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34).
• "I thirst" (John 19:28).
• "It is finished" (John 19:30).
• "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" (Luke 23:46).

Darkness Over the Land 

During the crucifixion, from noon until three in the afternoon, darkness came over the whole land (Matthew 27:45; Mark 15:33; Luke 23:44-45). This supernatural event symbolizes the gravity of the moment and the cosmic significance of Jesus' sacrifice.

The Tearing of the Temple Curtain 

At the moment of Jesus' death, the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45). This curtain separated the Holy of Holies, the innermost and most sacred area of the temple, from the rest of the temple. Its tearing symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, signifying that through Jesus' death, all people have direct access to God.

The Centurion’s Confession 

A Roman centurion, who witnessed Jesus' death, exclaimed, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39; Matthew 27:54). This statement is significant because it comes from a Gentile, acknowledging Jesus’ divine nature and the universal impact of his crucifixion.

These biblically focused points highlight the spiritual and theological significance of the crucifixion within the Christian faith, as well as its fulfillment of prophecy and its profound implications for humanity’s relationship with God.