Who was the Man in the centre of the three crosses?
At Pilate’s order, the Roman soldiers used the flagellum to scourge Jesus. His bare back and thighs became a bloody mass of muscles and bones. They clothed Him with a purple robe, which temporarily covered His wounds and prevented more blood loss. The twisted crown of sharp thorns pressed on His head to cause contortions to His face. “His appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of the children of mankind” (Isa 52:14).
Then Pilate presented Jesus to the crowd, “Behold the Man!” (John 19:5).
Which of these would be your response?
- I have nothing to do with Jesus. Pilate washed his hands and claimed himself to be innocent of the crucifixion of Jesus.
- He deserved it. The chief priests and the officers cried out, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!”
- Take the yoke of Jesus and follow Him. Simon of Cyrene carried the cross of Jesus.
- “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” One of the two condemned criminals on the cross believed at the 11th hour.
- Jesus took my place. Jesus took the place of Barabbas, a condemned criminal. Do I believe that Jesus took my place to receive God’s punishment for all my sins against God?
Will you commit yourself to Jesus with this prayer?
| Dear God, I believe that Jesus loves me and had died for my sins. I accept Him as my personal Saviour. I will follow Him as my Lord and God. In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. |
God bless!
Elder Yoong Yuen Soo
15 April 2022
