John 19 | What's happening (and who's involved)?

The results for Jesus' trial are in! As Barabbas was released, Pilate took Jesus and scourged Him. A twisted crown of thorns was placed on His head, a purple robe draped over His shoulders, and he was beaten. After this, Pilate presents Jesus to the people. It is understood that the hope would be that the people would accept the judgment that was brought upon Jesus. As we all know, they were not satisfied with this. Instead they cried out to crucify Him. As the Jews were rising up, Pilate feared and was pressured until he delivered Jesus to be crucified.

Jesus carries His own cross up to Golgotha. In the place where the judgment would be written, they placed a sign over Jesus' head. It read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." The chief priests argued with Pilate over this, but the Lord was already at work behind the scenes. This was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. Everyone present would have this testimony declared to them.

We see the fulfillment of Scripture as Jesus' garments were divided and for His clothing they cast lots. While Jesus is being mocked and crucified, His mother, His mother's sister, and two other Mary's were present. Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved (likely John) standing by. He exhorts them so that His mother would be taken care of by John.

The stage is fully set. Jesus is hung upon a cross, another man hung to His left and one to His right. The Scriptures have been fulfilled. He receives sour wine and then says the famous words we have come to know and love, "It is finished!" He bowed His head and gave up His spirit. When the soldiers came around to break the legs of each on the cross to hasten their death, they recognized that Jesus was dead. To be certain, they pierced the side of Jesus with a spear, and immediate blood and water poured out. John emphasizes that those who bore witness of this have testified of the fact of it. And even in His death, the Scriptures were fulfilled.

After the death of Jesus, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate if he could take the body of Jesus and bury Him. Pilate permitted it. So he and Nicodemus (back from John 3) and brought spices and aloes and prepared the body of Jesus per the custom of the Jews. He was laid in the grave and covered the entrance with a stone.

There are some very key things for the believer to gather from this testimony that John presents. I am eager to get into it! Let's see what you come up with. What observations are you noting from this passage?