Every verse of John’s account of Jesus’ crucifixion tells us something of the magnitude of what is happening.
In verse 16 of chapter 19, the authorities have charge of God the Son. If the individuals had realised who they had in their charge, they would’ve submitted to Jesus, yet they did not. Are we like that? Do we not realise who Christ really is and try to control him?
In verse 17, Jesus can be seen doing the will of the Father, willingly bearing the punishment for others, as he makes his way to that which he does not deserve.
The two individuals on either side of Jesus are both in the same predicament, they are both sinners. One of them had realised who Jesus was, asked him for forgiveness and received it. The other one just mocked.
Above Jesus was a description of his crime, yet Pilate hadn’t described his crime by what he had done, but by who he was. Written in Hebrew – the language of religion, Latin – the language of the Empire and necessary for day to day living and Greek – the language of philosophy and learning. Jesus affected all of these and is Lord of all.
Yet again, there were those who wouldn’t accept his kingship and wanted it changed.
Finally, the soldiers casting lots for Jesus’ garments had missed the point. They were only interested in what they thought was the most useful thing about Jesus. They used it as an opportunity to gain material possessions. Despite this, even through their own selfish actions, they were fulfilling prophecy. God can carry out his purposes even through men and women who are oblivious to him.
At the end of his letter to the Ephesians, Paul concludes in a similar way to his greeting.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Eph 1:1-2
Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. Eph 6:23-24
For the grace of God is the source of faith, faith produces love and love results in peace.
