What Jesus went through on Good Friday is a profound and poignant story that has been passed down through generations, captivating the hearts and minds of millions. This day, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, is a solemn reminder of the suffering and sacrifice He endured for the salvation of humanity.
The events of Good Friday began with Jesus’ betrayal by Judas Iscariot, one of His twelve disciples. After the Last Supper, Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane by a group of soldiers sent by the Sanhedrin, the Jewish governing body. The betrayal and arrest were a stark contrast to the love and devotion Jesus had shown His followers throughout His ministry.
After being taken to the Sanhedrin, Jesus was subjected to a series of trials, including one before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. Despite the fact that Pilate found no guilt in Jesus, he bowed to the pressure of the crowd and ordered Him to be crucified. This act of submission to the will of others was a testament to Jesus’ obedience to God’s plan.
As Jesus was led away to be crucified, He was beaten and whipped by Roman soldiers. The whips were designed to tear the flesh and cause immense pain. Jesus’ physical suffering was only the beginning of the ordeal He faced. During the crucifixion, Jesus was nailed to a cross, and His hands and feet were pierced with nails. The pain and suffering were unimaginable, yet Jesus remained silent and endured the torment with grace and strength.
While hanging on the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world, offering Himself as a sacrifice for humanity’s transgressions. The cross became a symbol of hope and redemption, as Jesus’ suffering was the means by which He defeated death and opened the gates of heaven for believers.
Throughout His crucifixion, Jesus faced not only physical pain but also spiritual isolation. He was forsaken by His disciples and even His own Father, as the scripture says, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). This moment of abandonment was a profound expression of Jesus’ love for humanity, as He endured the ultimate act of sacrifice.
Finally, after three hours of crucifixion, Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” and expired. His death marked the end of His earthly ministry and the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. Good Friday is a day of reflection and remembrance, a time to honor the sacrifice Jesus made for the sake of our salvation.
As Christians, we remember Good Friday as a day of sorrow and gratitude. Sorrow for the pain and suffering Jesus endured, and gratitude for the love and forgiveness He offered. The events of Good Friday serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible love that God has for us, and the eternal life that awaits those who believe in Jesus Christ.
