The Crucifixion of Christ (Golgotha)

Context & Setting

• Main Biblical Reference: Matthew 27:27–56; Mark 15:16–41; Luke 23:26–49; John 19:16–37
• Historical Period: Roman rule in Judea (1st century AD)
• Geographic Location: Jerusalem; Golgotha (“Place of a Skull”), outside the city
• Key Characters: Jesus; Roman soldiers (including a centurion); Pilate (named in the trial context); Simon of Cyrene; two criminals crucified with Jesus; Jewish religious leaders; women disciples (including Mary Magdalene)

The Narrative

The Beginning:
After Jesus is condemned, Roman soldiers lead Him out to be crucified. On the way, Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry the cross (or crossbeam) behind Him. They come to Golgotha, where Jesus is prepared for execution.

The Middle:
Jesus is crucified between two criminals, and an inscription is placed above Him identifying Him as “King of the Jews.” Passersby, leaders, and soldiers mock Him, while Jesus speaks from the cross, including praying for forgiveness and entrusting His mother to the beloved disciple (as recorded in John). Darkness comes over the land for a period, and Jesus cries out before giving up His spirit. The temple curtain is torn (reported in the Synoptic Gospels), and the centurion responds with awe at what has occurred.

The End:
Jesus dies, and witnesses—especially the women who followed Him—observe from near the cross or at a distance. Soldiers confirm His death; in John, Jesus’ side is pierced, and blood and water flow. The crucifixion concludes with Jesus’ death publicly witnessed, setting the stage for His burial.

Theological Meaning

The crucifixion stands at the center of the Gospel proclamation: Jesus willingly suffers and dies as the righteous one, fulfilling the Scriptures and accomplishing God’s saving purpose. The narratives present His death as both a real historical execution under Roman authority and a redemptive act in which the Messiah bears suffering, forgives, and remains faithful to the Father to the end. The tearing of the temple curtain signifies a decisive moment in salvation history—God’s action that points to new access to Him through Christ’s death.

Historical & Cultural Insight

Crucifixion was a Roman method of public execution designed to shame and deter; it was typically carried out in visible locations near roads and outside city walls. The Gospels’ placement of Golgotha outside Jerusalem aligns with known Roman practice and with Jewish concerns about defilement within the city, helping explain why executions occurred beyond the main urban area.

Key Memory Verse

“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” — Luke 23:34