On Friday morning, Christ was at the hands of the Jews as they brought him to trial. After dealing with the Sanhedrin, the Jews gave him to the Roman governor Pilate.
Talmage: "Pilate was surprised at the submissive yet majestic demeanor of Jesus; there was certainly much that was kingly about the Man; never before had such a One stood before him. The charge, however, was a serious one; men who claimed title to kingship might prove dangerous to Rome ... Pilate inquired: "Art thou a king then?" Jesus answered: "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice." It was clear to the Roman governor that this wonderful Man, with His exalted views of a kingdom not of this world, and an empire of truth in which He was to reign, was no political insurrectionist."
Pilate called for Jesus to be released, finding no fault in him. The people's reaction was threatening and overwhelming. Eventually, Pilate washed his hands and proclaimed: "I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it."
Christ was scourged, made to carry his own cross, and nailed through his hands and feet.
"As the crucifiers proceeded with their awful task, not unlikely with roughness and taunts, for killing was their trade and to scenes of anguish they had grown callous through long familiarity, the agonized Sufferer, void of resentment but full of pity for their heartlessness and capacity for cruelty, voiced the first of seven utterances delivered from the cross..."
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Black darkness overcame the land in the middle of the day.
"It was a fitting sign of the earth's deep mourning over the impending death of her Creator."
"Fully realizing that He was no longer forsaken, but that His mission in the flesh had been carried to glorious consummation, He exclaimed in a loud voice of holy triumph: "It is finished." In reverence, resignation, and relief, He addressed the Father saying, "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit."
Consequently, the world was darkened. Violent earthquakes shook the land and rocks were rent in twain. The Roman soldiers were overcome with fear. I can't imagine the sorrow, fear and uncertainty felt by all the people that day.
From the new Because He Lives video:
"The man they called Master, Messiah, Friend -- was gone."
"But the greatest miracle was yet to come."
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