During Earth’s history, many wars have been fought. Soldiers and others have laid down their lives for their country making tremendous sacrifices. Despite this, wars and battles have continued. Countless lives have been lost. Rewards are awarded to the courageous.
Long ago a battle commenced against Jesus of Nazareth with Herod the Great seeking to kill Him after He was born. Others tried to harm or kill Him to stop the divine plan of redemption to save humanity. Jesus was tempted by Satan in areas of physical need, worldly power and trust in God’s power to save Him. This involved temptations in the desert to turn stones into bread and to bow and worship Satan. He was also tempted to jump from the temple. Satan was desperate to stop the thin line leading to Calvary.
Other battles involved Jesus’ ministry, which many rejected. Many people wanted Him to become king to overthrow the Romans. Some refused to accept He was the Messiah. Others claimed He did not keep the Sabbath. He associated with tax collectors and sinners. One of His friends said he didn’t know Him. His closest friends fell asleep when He needed them most. One betrayed Him for money. The spiritual leaders plotted against Him. The Governor, though he could find no fault in Him, still condemned Him.
The ultimate battle led to a wooden cross on a hill at Golgotha during which time Jesus was:
- Handed over to the shouting crowd in exchange for Barabbas, a murderer, who was released;
- Helped only by Simon of Cyrene who the Romans compelled to carry His cross;
- Crowned with thorns but called King of the Jews insolently;
- Nailed to the old rugged cross, ridiculed, spat on, abused and insulted;
- Humiliated by two thieves hanging next to Him as they heaped insults on Him; and
- Taunted by the chief priests saying they would believe in Him if He came down from the cross.
Even in agony on the cross, Jesus could still forgive His tormenters. He cried out “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
One thief then repented and said to the other “. . . this man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41). He then called out “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).
Jesus could have called legions of angels to help. However, keeping to the divine plan, Jesus said “. . . it is finished” (John 19:30). With His redemptive work complete, Jesus bowed His head and died. An earthquake shook the earth. Darkness descended over the land. The Temple Curtain was rent in two.
What are we to make of Jesus’ death on the Cross? Was it to save only the thief on the cross, and people like Him, who come to Jesus at the last moment? Was it only for those who have followed Jesus for years? Not at all! Jesus died for everyone.
Jesus died at Calvary as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29) who took away the sin of the world. Jesus bore the weight of all our sins that He carried to the cross. He died on our behalf because “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). He paid the price on our behalf. The good news is Jesus rose again on the third day and returned to God the Father in heaven as our Saviour and Advocate. Hallelujah. Praise God!
We too can face opposition for following God. How should we respond? Be courageous and keep trusting Jesus who has saved us by His grace. Come to Calvary and be ready for Jesus when He comes again. Awaiting us on that day is a crown of righteousness rewarding our faith and trust in God.
Neville Biddle is a retired public servant in Brisbane, Queensland.
