The Day Before Crucifixion

Introduction. Good Friday is the eve or day before Jesus’ crucifixion. I believe from what I see happening that We live on the eve of tense days and parlous times. These days remind us of the promise that Jesus made that would mark the last days and the near coming of the Lord, time draws nigh.

It affects everyone this war is playing out on television screens around the world in real time. Frankly, I’m not comfortable watching images of atrocities that fold out almost daily. I don’t feel like I need this much information to convince you.

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I also know that God never sleeps-there is never a time that He is not watching. Yet man can never say He was not warned. God keeps a firm grip on the heavens and earth, even when wicked men reign on earth. I know our God protects His people. He is the deliverer. Nothing happens that God doesn’t allow or permit.

This immediately raises a question: why doesn’t God stop evil things from happening? I can’t answer the question, but I can say we have been warned!!!

Today, our focus is not on the times that God chooses not to act but on the times that He warned us of.

Christ, the day before He was afflicted the Roman way, and a crown of thorns was placed on his head. Many want a crown with stars but not the affliction that comes along with it.

Jesus was to be led away to a place where he would suffer as no man had ever suffered before. In the heart of this burden, Jesus was concerned for others, even amid his own agony, and people had to be warned of judgment to come: ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children’ (v. 28).

he was to take upon himself the sins of his people, which meant that they would be blessed with every spiritual blessing.

The people allowed it. Different opinions and feelings were represented among the people. The people supported by the priestly leaders' wealth stood dutifully by and cried, “Crucify Him.”

Those favorable to Jesus were perhaps stunned and did not know what to do. It was reported that Jesus was arrested. What could one do? Jesus’ friends fled. They were like sheep without a shepherd. Those who had shouted God’s praises at the coming of the Messiah at the beginning of the week were silent. They had hoped Jesus would redeem Israel, but now He was going to die. They simply let Him.

The reason Jesus died ends ultimately in the mind of God. He knew there was no other way to redeem mankind. As sin had come through one and death passed to all, now through one, God’s own Son, life would return (Romans 5:12–21; 1 Corinthians 15:21, 22). Jesus came to give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). God was in control all the while.

Those in authority do not realize that they are not having his way; they are being used to fulfill God’s purpose. The religious leaders, the Romans, and Judas simply chose their roles in the working of God’s plan.

Why did Jesus have to die? Because God loves the sinner, you and me, enough that He sent His own Son to die in our stead. So, in a sense, we have had our hand in the evil that was done the day Jesus died, but by the grace of God, we can receive of the good that was accomplished.

The reason Jesus died ends ultimately in the mind of God there was no other way to redeem mankind. As sin had come through one and death passed to all, now through one, God’s own Son, life would return (Romans 5:12–21; 1 Corinthians 15:21, 22).

Jesus came to give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). God was in control all the while. This does not lessen the sin of those who chose an evil role in fulfilling God’s plan, but this is why one can speak of “Good” Friday amid pain and tragedy.

Satan did not realize that he was not gaining his way; he was being used to fulfill God’s purpose. The religious leaders, the Romans, and Judas simply chose their roles in the working of God’s plan. No one is to do evil that good may come (Romans 3:8); but God is able to turn even evil to support a good result.

Why did Jesus have to die? Because God loves the sinner, you and me, enough that He sent His own Son to die in our stead. So in a sense, we have had our hand in the evil that was done the day Jesus died; but by the grace of God, we can receive of the good that was accomplished.

The Weight of Tomorrow: Reflecting on the Day Before the Cross

Bible Passage: Matthew 26:36-46, John 18:1-11, Luke 22:39-46

Summary: This sermon explores the significant moments leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, focusing on His profound struggles, prayers, and ultimate submission to God’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Application: Understanding the emotional and spiritual weight that Jesus bore before His crucifixion can help believers grasp the depth of His sacrifice, encouraging them to surrender their struggles to God just as Jesus did.

Teaching: This sermon teaches the importance of prayer and submission to God's will during our most difficult times, highlighting how Jesus modeled perfect obedience even under immense pressure.

How this passage could point to Christ: The day before the crucifixion reveals Jesus as the suffering servant who takes upon Himself the sins of humanity, previewing His ultimate sacrifice for our redemption and demonstrating His love and obedience to God the Father.

Big Idea: In our moments of anguish and uncertainty, we can draw strength from Jesus' example of prayer and surrender, knowing that He understands our struggles and invites us into deep communion with Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider diving into the cultural and historical context of Gethsemane using Logos to understand the significance of Jesus' anguish. Also, explore parallel accounts in the Gospels to identify any variations and their implications. Examining the Greek terms used in His prayers may offer deeper insights into His emotional state and intentions.

1. Entering Gethsemane's Grief

Matthew 26:36-39

You could emphasize that Jesus' entrance into Gethsemane marks the beginning of His intense emotional battle. Highlight how He expresses His deep sorrow to His disciples and begins His prayerful submission to the Father's will. This moment sets the stage for believers to approach God honestly with their deepest fears, knowing that Jesus, too, felt overwhelmed but chose to trust in God's plan. By inviting His closest friends to pray with Him, Jesus models the importance of community in times of trial.

2. Persistent Prayer in Pain

Matthew 26:40-46

Perhaps focus on Jesus' persistence in prayer, despite His disciples' inability to stay awake and support Him. This persistence illustrates an unwavering commitment to the Father's mission. Urge believers to remain faithful in prayer, even when feeling alone in their struggles, understanding that true strength comes from divine communion. Jesus' willingness to persevere, despite human frailties around Him, encourages believers to continue seeking God’s strength and guidance.

3. Facing Foes Fearlessly

John 18:1-3

Maybe describe how Jesus, knowing Judas would betray Him, still proceeds to the garden. This act highlights Jesus' intentionality in facing His destiny, embodying the courage to face trials head-on. Encourage Christians to recognize the significance of willingly confronting challenges with divine assurance. Jesus' resolve serves as a testament to facing betrayal and adversity by entrusting oneself to God's sovereign will, inspiring believers to walk in faith.

4. Receiving Arrest with Resolve

John 18:4-11

You could explore how Jesus exercises restraint and authority even when being arrested. His rebuke of Peter’s violent reaction and assurance that He is fulfilling a greater plan speaks volumes. Suggest to believers that responding to adversity with peace rather than aggression aligns with Jesus' example. Believers are invited to trust in God's overarching purposes, fostering a spirit of peace and submission similar to Jesus' demeanor during His arrest.

5. Strengthened Through Supplication

Luke 22:39-46

Perhaps delve into Jesus’ repeated prayers and His eventual strengthened resolve through divine assistance. This event signifies that in our weakest moments, God provides the necessary support to succeed in His mission. Emphasize the power of prayerful surrender as Jesus receives strength to face what lies ahead. Believers can draw from this to find empowerment in God’s presence, encouraging them to persist in prayer until peace and readiness envelop their spirits.