Luke 23:32–49 (ESV): The Crucifixion of Jesus
Written By Lesallan
Ohio Christian University
BIB3510 Gospels: Luke (ONLF23)
Professor Daniel Rickett
September 13, 2023
Luke 23:32-49 (ESV): The Crucifixion of Jesus
Below please find the five insights I have chosen to share from Luke 23:32-49 (ESV):
This passage, Luke 23:32–49 (ESV), when interpreted in its literary, canonical, and historical context (the objective of this discussion), is as follows:
In its literary context, this passage is a narrative that describes the crucifixion of Jesus and the reactions of those who witnessed it. It is structured into three principal sections: The crucifixion of Jesus and two criminals. The reactions of the soldiers and criminals. The death of Jesus and the reactions of the centurion and the crowds. Within its canonical context, this passage is closely linked to the preceding and subsequent sections found in the book of Luke that detail the events leading up to and following Jesus’ death, resurrection, and Ascension. This is an illustration of how Jesus fulfilled God’s plan for Israel and the world by offering Himself as a sacrifice for sin and rising again as the King of the Jews. In the historical context of that time, the Roman government did not permit the Jewish leaders to carry out capital punishment. As a result, they presented Jesus to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who presided over the region of Judea. The Jewish leaders lodged three unfounded accusations against Jesus: He was a revolutionary, advocated for people to refuse to pay their taxes, and proclaimed himself to be a king in defiance of Caesar.
Despite being crucified, Jesus asked His Father to forgive those (the lawmakers) who were crucifying Him (Luke 23:34, ESV).
This verse (Luke 23:34, ESV) shows God’s immense forgiveness capacity, even in extreme suffering, “And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do’” (Luke 23:34, ESV). And they cast lots to divide His garments.” This verse is a powerful demonstration of God’s immense capacity for forgiveness. Even while Jesus was experiencing the extreme physical pain and emotional anguish of crucifixion, He chose to pray for those who were causing His suffering. His words were not of anger or vengeance, but of forgiveness and understanding. He asked His Father to forgive them, attributing their actions to ignorance. This shows that the severity of the offense does not diminish God’s capacity for forgiveness.
In fact, in moments of extreme suffering, God’s love and forgiveness are often most powerfully displayed. This verse reminds us that God’s forgiveness is available to us no matter what we have done or how far we have all strayed. It is a testament to the depth of God’s love and mercy, and a model for how we should also strive to forgive others, even when it is difficult.
The inscription over Jesus read, “This is the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38, ESV) was meant to be an insult, but ironically affirmed Jesus’ true identity.
Indeed, the inscription “This is the King of the Jews” was intended as a form of mockery towards Jesus by the Roman soldiers. In their eyes, they were crucifying a man who had falsely claimed to be a king. However, in a profound twist of irony, this inscription unknowingly proclaimed the truth about Jesus’ identity. Jesus is indeed the King, not just of the Jews, but of all mankind. His kingdom is not of this world, but is a spiritual kingdom. He rules not through force or political power, but through love and sacrifice. His crown was not made of gold and jewels, but of thorns. His throne was not a seat of earthly power, but a cross of suffering.
So, while the inscription was meant to degrade and humiliate Jesus, it instead affirmed His true identity and mission. It is a powerful reminder that God’s ways are not our ways, and what the world may see as foolishness or weakness, God uses for His glory and our salvation.
The two criminals crucified with Jesus had different reactions and attitudes towards Him (Luke 23:39-43).
While one criminal mocked Him, the other criminal recognized His innocence and asked for mercy. This shows diverse human responses to Jesus’ message. The reactions of the two criminals crucified with Jesus represent the diverse ways in which people respond to Jesus and His message. The first criminal mocks Jesus, echoing the scorn of the soldiers and religious leaders. This represents those who reject Jesus, dismiss His claims, and refuse to acknowledge their own need for forgiveness. The second criminal, however, recognizes Jesus’ innocence and asks for mercy. Despite his own suffering, he defends Jesus and acknowledges Him as Lord. This represents those who, even in their sin and suffering, recognize their need for a Savior and turn to Jesus for forgiveness. These contrasting responses serve as a reminder that the message of Jesus is a dividing line. It compels a response – acceptance or rejection. It is a powerful illustration of the choices we all face in responding to the person and message of Jesus.
The darkness and tearing of the temple curtain were signs of God’s judgment and wrath against sin (Luke 23:44-46, ESV).
Luke 23:44-46, ESV, recounts the events that unfolded during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The passage records that darkness engulfed the land from noon until 3 PM and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. The tearing of the temple curtain holds great significance in that it represents the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, which was previously symbolized by the curtain. The darkness and tearing of the temple curtain were not signals of God’s wrath or judgment against sin, but instead represented Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity. Jesus’ death on the cross fulfilled Old Testament prophecies and demonstrated God’s love for humankind.
Blessings,
Lesallan
