UNDERSTANDING LUKE 23

The Innocent Savior Gives His Life for Sinners

After being questioned by the Jewish council, Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. The religious leaders accuse Him of misleading the people and claiming to be a king. Pilate finds no basis for condemning Jesus, but when he learns that Jesus is from Galilee, he sends Him to Herod Antipas. Herod questions and mocks Jesus before returning Him to Pilate. Although neither ruler finds Him deserving of death, the crowd demands His crucifixion and calls for the release of Barabbas, a man imprisoned for rebellion and murder. The innocent Savior is condemned while a guilty man is released.

As Jesus is led to the place of crucifixion, Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry His cross, and Jesus speaks to the women mourning for Him. At the place called the Skull, Jesus is crucified between two criminals. The rulers and soldiers mock Him, challenging Him to save Himself if He truly is the Messiah. Yet Jesus does not abandon His mission. One of the criminals recognizes his own guilt and Jesus’ innocence, asking Jesus to remember him when He comes into His kingdom. Jesus responds with the promise that the man will be with Him in paradise. Even while suffering on the cross, Jesus extends mercy to a repentant sinner.

Darkness covers the land, the curtain of the temple is torn, and Jesus entrusts His spirit into the Father’s hands before breathing His last. A Roman centurion responds by praising God and declaring Jesus innocent. Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Jewish council who had not agreed with its decision, receives permission to bury Jesus. He places His body in a new tomb, while the women who followed Jesus observe where He is laid. As you read, consider the innocence of Jesus, the depth of His suffering, and the extraordinary grace revealed through His willingness to give His life for sinners.