Day 37

The Finished Work of the Cross

Read John 19:16-42

Summary

• Jesus carried His own cross to Golgotha and was crucified between two criminals.

• Pilate put an inscription above Him that read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." It was meant to be sarcastic, but the title really revealed the truth about Jesus’ identity.

• Even when Jesus was suffering in great pain on the Cross, He was concerned for His mother’s welfare. He called upon John to care for her after His departure.

• Jesus calmly endured the crucifixion to the very end. Before He bowed His head and willingly gave up His spirit, He declared, “It is Finished!” It was the cry of a winner! Jesus had finished the eternal purpose of the Cross and He had completed God’s mission of redemption!

• His side was pierced, but His bones remained intact, fulfilling Old Testament Scriptures.

• His two secret disciples, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, got Pilate’s permission to give Jesus a decent burial.

Reflect

1. Jesus was looking out for His mother’s welfare even while He was hanging on the Cross. How does Jesus' love for others, even when going through excruciating pain, inspire you to look outwards and care for others? Do you have loved ones who need your care?

2. Joseph and Nicodemus were honourable men. They were willing to risk social ridicule and the wrath of their fellow Jews in order to give Jesus a decent burial. Are you also willing to suffer social disdain and peer displeasure by holding onto your Christian values?

Watch

Videos used with permission by Michael Hoff
YouTube.com/@digitaltheologian
www.digitaltheologian.com 

Jesus, though betrayed and condemned unjustly, willingly endured the cross, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating God’s love. Even in agony, He cared for others, declared His mission complete, and gave up His spirit. His death, burial, and resurrection secured redemption, inviting all to embrace His grace, freedom, and eternal life.

Reflect

3. Meditate on John 3:16. Allow this truth to sink in concerning God’s deep love. Thank Jesus for dying on the Cross.

Closing Prayer

Pray for a deeper understanding of Jesus' sacrifice and gratitude for His love. Ask God for the strength to live a renewed life of purpose that will glorify Him.