We now come to the crucifixion itself. It is quite amazing that all of the gospels focus so much of their time on the events of the last week. This is a measure of the fact that they saw it as the most important event in Jesus' life, indeed being absolutely central to it.
With the Romans the cross was a sign of their power. To the nations they dominated it was a sign of what they would do to anyone who resisted them. Jesus made it a symbol that signifies the giving of new life.
After the beatings Jesus may well have been unable to carry the cross, and Simon of Cyrene was enlisted to help.
Jesus was offered wine mixed with gall, but refused to drink it. Maybe He was remembering His words about not drinking wine again until He came into His kingdom.
The soldiers cast lots for Jesus' clothes, and above His head they had placed a sign saying "Jesus, King of the Jews". They may have meant this mockingly, but in reality it was an indictment of those who had crucified Him.
Two criminals were crucified with Him. The crowds now mocked Him and insulted Him. The criminals also insulted Him, though elsewhere we read that one of them saw in the end who Jesus really was.
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