The Crucifixion of Christ
The crucifixion of Christ is one of the most staggering moments in all of Scripture — not only because He died, but because of how He died and who usually received that kind of death.
The Crucifixion of Christ
The Cross Was Reserved for the Worst Criminals
In the Roman world, crucifixion wasn’t a normal punishment. It was the most shameful, brutal, and degrading form of execution they had. It was used for:
- violent criminals
- rebels and insurrectionists
- slaves who defied Rome
- enemies of the state
Roman citizens were almost never crucified — it was considered too disgraceful. The cross was meant to humiliate, torture, and make an example out of someone.
And yet Jesus, the sinless Son of God, was given the punishment reserved for the worst of the worst.
He Took the Place of the Guilty
The irony is breathtaking:
- Barabbas, a real criminal, was released.
- Jesus, innocent in every way, was condemned.
It’s a picture of substitution — the guilty goes free, the innocent suffers. That’s the gospel in miniature.
He Was Treated as a Criminal So We Could Be Treated as Children
Isaiah said it long before it happened:
- “He was numbered with the transgressors.”
- “The chastisement of our peace was upon Him.”
- “The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”
Jesus didn’t just die for sinners — He died as if He were one, carrying the full weight of our guilt, shame, and punishment.
The Cross Shows the Depth of God’s Love
Why?
The worst punishment ever devised… taken by the One who never sinned… so that the worst sinners could be forgiven, restored, and loved.
If you want, we can go deeper into:
- the physical suffering
- the spiritual meaning
- the prophetic fulfillment
- or how this connects to salvation and daily Christian living
Susan Barker Nikitenko 2026©
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