JCG-007 • LIFE OF CHRIST COLLECTION

The Crucifixion

At Golgotha, outside and near Jerusalem, Jesus was crucified between two criminals while soldiers, witnesses, and people passing along the road looked on.
Matthew 27:27–56 • Mark 15:16–41 • Luke 23:26–49 • John 19:16–37
The crucifixion of Jesus at Golgotha beside a traveled road near Jerusalem

“Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.”

Luke 23:46

The Way to Golgotha

Jesus was led out to be crucified. Simon of Cyrene was compelled to carry the cross as the procession moved toward the place called Golgotha.

Matthew 27:31–33 • Mark 15:21–22

Crucified Between Two

Jesus was crucified with two others, one on either side. Above Him was the written charge identifying Him as Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.

John 19:18–22

People Passed By

The Gospel writers describe people passing the crucifixion site and mocking Jesus. This places the execution in public view, near a traveled way rather than in a remote wilderness.

Matthew 27:39 • Mark 15:29

Darkness Over the Land

From the sixth hour until the ninth hour, darkness came over the land. Near the end, Jesus cried out and then gave up His spirit.

Matthew 27:45–50

The Crucifixion in Seven Movements

1

Jesus Is Condemned

Pilate delivers Jesus to be crucified.

2

The Way of the Cross

Jesus is led toward Golgotha, and Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry the cross.

3

Jesus Is Crucified

He is placed on the cross between two criminals.

4

The Sign Above Him

The inscription identifies Jesus as the King of the Jews.

5

Those Who Passed By

Travelers and onlookers see the crucifixion and some mock Him.

6

Darkness Falls

Darkness comes over the land during the final hours.

7

Jesus Gives Up His Spirit

Jesus cries out, commits His spirit to the Father, and dies.

The Seven Sayings of Jesus From the Cross

1. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” — Luke 23:34
2. “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” — Luke 23:43
3. “Woman, behold your son!” / “Behold your mother!” — John 19:26–27
4. “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” — Matthew 27:46
5. “I thirst!” — John 19:28
6. “It is finished!” — John 19:30
7. “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” — Luke 23:46

Why This Moment Matters

The crucifixion stands at the center of the Gospel story. Jesus willingly endured suffering and death, and the New Testament presents His death as the sacrifice through which forgiveness and reconciliation with God are made possible.

The Gospel accounts also give us important visual details: Golgotha was near Jerusalem, the execution was visible to those passing by, Roman soldiers were present, two others were crucified with Jesus, and darkness covered the land during the final hours.

The event did not end at the cross. Jesus was taken down and placed in a tomb, preparing the way for the next exhibit: the Resurrection.

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