Behold the Man: Remember, Proclaim, Find Grace
Text: John 19:31-42 Word of the Week: PREPARATION
Speaker: Nate Muse
Takeaways
John gives us a picture of Jesus’s tortuous crucifixion and reveals two men specifically affected by it.
Understanding that this was a terribly painful and emotionally overwhelming experience for Jesus is essential.
Among many prophecies, we see two specific ones fulfilled in this crucifixion.
1. No bones were broken – the soldiers wanted to hasten the deaths of those being crucified by breaking their legs. Both Sabbath and Passover were coinciding with these crucifixions, and they wanted them over with. But Jesus died before there was a need for broken bones.
- He was pierced. Many think that the water and blood that came out when He was pierced show that His heart burst.
Two men’s faith was stirred by their presence during this event. Joseph of Arimathea was a secret follower of Jesus and a member of the Sanhedrin. After hiding his devotion due to fear, he courageously asked Pilate if he could care for Jesus’ body.
Nicodemus, whom we first met in John 3, assisted him. Although heo had remained quietly intrigued by Jesup, his interest in him became public when he stepped forward to help.
What caused these men to come out of the shadows and care for the dignity of Jesus? Their faith grew and became bolder by beholding this man Jesus during this event.
Other than around the Easter season, we rarely meditate on the death of Jesus. It is not pleasant to consider. But by avoiding this, are we missing out on a greater depth of faith, trust, and experience with Him? What grace might we find by being willing to deeply consider all that Jesus went through? And how might we encourage one another by proclaiming His death to others? The resurrection is certainly worth celebrating and is a benchmark of our faith. But if we don’t thoughtfully consider His death, we miss out on a facet of our relationship with Jesus that is vital and life-changing.
Reflection PromptersHow does understanding Jesus’ physical suffering and the fulfillment of prophecy deepen your appreciation of His sacrifice?
What do you think caused Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus to step forward and publicly care for Jesus’ body, and how can their courage inspire us today?
Why is it important to reflect on Jesus’ death throughout the year, not just during Easter? How can this practice enhance our relationship with Him?
What aspects of Jesus’ crucifixion resonate with you most deeply, and how does reflecting on His sacrifice encourage your faith?
How might you challenge yourself and others to more thoughtfully proclaim the death of Jesus, and what impact could this have on your spiritual journey?
Additional Scriptures to consider:
Exodus 12:46
Numbers 9:12
Zechariah 12:10
John 3
Click here for the downloadable study sheet.