4/13/25
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
Although they knew the truth about Jesus, Pilate, the chief priests, the rulers, and the people rejected Him and called for His death. Three criminals were scheduled for crucifixion that Passover, but only two were punished. The One who knew no sin—innocent, sinless, guiltless Jesus the Christ—substituted Himself for a vile murderer and bandit named Jesus Barabbas. 1 Peter 3:18
Doctor Luke recorded that a great multitude followed Jesus on His painful journey to the cross. Among them were women who wept—some out of cultural tradition, others from genuine sorrow. Jesus turned to them and said not to weep for Him, but for themselves and for the generations to come. Why?
Pilate had prepared a nameplate to be fastened to Jesus’ cross: “THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” The Roman soldiers and Jewish leaders mocked Him, sneering with a satanic challenge: “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!” They placed Him—innocent and holy—in the place of Barabbas, between two criminals, one on His right and the other on His left. Isaiah 53:12; Psalm 22
As He was being crucified, Jesus prayed for those responsible, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
One of the criminals crucified beside Jesus hurled insults at Him: “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence? We are guilty—we are getting what we deserve. But this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
Jesus confirmed with a promise to the criminal who asked and believed, “Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
At the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil in the Temple—separating the Holy of Holies—was torn in two. This dramatic act symbolized that His sacrifice, the shedding of His own blood, was sufficient atonement for all who believe. It signified that Jesus Christ, through His death, became our High Priest, removing the barrier between God and mankind. Now, all who believe may freely approach God with confidence and boldness. Hebrews 4:14–16