Mark 15:16-32: The Crucifixion
The soldiers led Jesus to the palace, clothed him in purple, crowned him with thorns, and mocked him saying "Hail, King of the Jews!"
They struck him, spat on him, and knelt in false homage before leading him out to crucify him.
Irony
The soldiers unknowingly proclaimed truth through their mockery.
Christ truly is King of Kings, and the crown of thorns represents what God's earthly kingdom actually looks like — suffering for sinners.
The entire scene drips with irony as everyone involved unwittingly confesses the gospel narrative.
Active vs. Passive
Jesus wasn't passively swept along by events. He remained in complete control, actively choosing to endure this suffering.
He could have called legions of angels but chose to be "a lamb led to the slaughter."
It was deliberate submission for our sake.
The Crucifixion
Simon of Cyrene was compelled to carry Jesus's cross.
The soldiers divided his garments by casting lots, fulfilling prophecy.
Jesus was crucified between two robbers while mockers demanded he save himself
Simon of Cyrene
This random man, pulled from his journey, unexpectedly bore Christ's cross.
Church history suggests he became a believer — the fact that he's named indicates the early church knew him.
The Thieves
Both likely mocked Jesus initially (in Mark's account), but one eventually recognized Jesus's innocence and asked to be remembered in his kingdom (in Luke's account).
The Central Truth
Every detail — from the crown of thorns to the divided garments — points to one reality: Christ is dying for sinners.
This is God's work of salvation.
The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit all participated in this redemptive act.
All Good Friday preaching must return to this core truth: Jesus died for you.
Contributor Rev. Harrison Goodman is the Higher Things Executive Director of Missions and Theology.
Contributor Eli Lietzau is the pastor at Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.
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