Crucifixion

For Thursday, March 28, 2024:

Mark 15:31 NLT: “The leading priests and teachers of religious law also mocked Jesus. ‘He saved others,’ they scoffed, ‘but he can’t save himself!’”

A passerby named Simon was forced to carry Jesus’ cross up the hill to Golgotha, the place of the scull. Soldiers nailed Jesus to the cross, and then cast lots to divide his clothes. A sign announced the charge against him. It read, “The King of the Jews.”

Succumbing to “mob mentality,” everyone passing by – the priests, teachers of religious law, friends and enemies alike – chose to hurl insults at Jesus. “He saved others,” they scoffed, “but he can’t save himself!” It’s easier to kick someone when they’re down.

Two criminals were crucified alongside Jesus, and they too mocked him. But as death drew closer, one changed his tune. He pleaded, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus answered him, “Today you will be with me in paradise!”

That’s a major plank in our theological platform. Believers, when your soul, your eternal essence no longer requires a body, you will be present with the Lord. Jesus said so!

Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship

Blasphemy!

For Saturday, March 23, 2024:

Mark 14:63-64a NLT: After hearing Jesus claiming to be the I AM, “The high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and said, ‘Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard his blasphemy.’”

In spite of what they called it, this confrontation with Jesus wasn’t a real trial. Much like Putin being elected President of Russia, the verdict was known before the event ever took place.

Yesterday I pointed out the significance of Jesus calling himself the I AM. But it wouldn’t have mattered much what he said. The high priest called it blasphemy, and anything Jesus said would have been called blasphemy. The high council’s goal wasn’t to conduct a fair trial. The goal from the get-go was to eliminate this man competing for power and tithes. Furthermore, Jesus was teaching a philosophy that differed from the Temple teaching. The Temple teachers were consumed with enforcing the law, while Jesus taught forgiveness and love. Love God, love your neighbor.

So by tearing his clothes and calling Jesus’ testimony blasphemy, the High Priest in effect declared Jesus guilty. All present seemed to be on board. They spit upon Jesus and beat him. Mob mentality prevailed. The mob would do things that no individual would never do.

Don’t ever join the mob!

Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship