“But Jesus, after crying out loudly with His last breath, said, ‘Father, into Your hands I entrust My spirit.’ And having said this, He died.” – Luke 23:46, NASB
Friday is called “Good” not because it was pleasant, but because of what it accomplished.
On this day, Jesus, the sinless Son of God, was crucified. Betrayed by a friend, condemned by the religious elite, handed over to the Romans, mocked by the crowd, and nailed to a Roman cross between criminals. The One through whom the world was made (John 1:3) was lifted up in shame, agony, and substitution.
This is the center of human history. The day justice and mercy met.
A Crown of Thorns for the King of Glory
From a human perspective, this was the greatest injustice ever committed. The only innocent man to ever live was executed like a criminal. He was scourged, humiliated, and pierced—while the people He came to save shouted, “Crucify Him!”
And yet, this was no accident. It was the plan of God from the beginning.
“But the Lord desired to crush Him, causing Him grief; If He renders Himself as a guilt offering…”
— Isaiah 53:10
Jesus wasn’t overcome by darkness—He entered it willingly, bearing the full weight of our sin so that we could be reconciled to God.
The Wrath We Deserved
The cross was more than physical pain. It was spiritual substitution. Jesus bore the wrath of God that we deserved.
“He made Him who knew no sin to be sin in our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
-2 Corinthians 5:21
As He hung on the cross, Jesus cried out:
“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matt. 27:46)
He experienced the spiritual separation that should have fallen on us.
And then He said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30)
Not I am finished—but It is: the debt, the penalty, the sacrifice.
The Curtain Was Torn
At the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom (Matt. 27:51), symbolizing that the way to God was now open.
The old sacrificial system had served its purpose. The true Lamb had been offered (John 1:29). Sin had been judged, and grace made available.
What Good Friday Demands of Us
Good Friday is not a moment for religious routine. It demands a response:
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Will you mourn your sin—and turn from it?
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Will you believe that Jesus took your place?
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Will you surrender your life to the One who gave His?
The cross is not just something to admire, it is a call to repentance, faith, and discipleship.
“Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” – Luke 9:23
Reflection Questions:
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Do I truly believe that Jesus died in my place?
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Have I repented of my sin and trusted in His finished work?
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Am I living like someone bought with a price?
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