Introduction: The 15th chapter of Mark’s Gospel records the trial, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus Christ. It is a dynamic and moving account that reveals the depth of Jesus’ suffering and the extent of the sacrifice He made for humanity. This chapter also points out the different people involved in the crucifixion – from the Roman authorities to the Jewish leaders, to the common people, and even to the criminals crucified alongside Jesus. This chapter is of the utmost theological importance, and offers a look into the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. This was the plan from the beginning of creation by our Heavenly Father for the redemption of mankind, 1 Peter 1:19-20.
I. Jesus Before Pilate (Mark 15:1-5)
In these verses, Jesus is brought before the Roman governor Pilate. Despite the accusations of the chief priests, Jesus remains silent, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth.” Pilate, amazed by Jesus’ composure, ultimately gives in to the crowd’s demand for crucifixion.
II. The Soldiers Mock Jesus (Mark 15:16-20)
After Pilate hands Jesus over to be crucified, the Roman soldiers mockingly dress Him in a purple robe and a crown of thorns, hailing Him as “King of the Jews.” This act of mockery fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 22:7-8, “All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads.”
III. The Crucifixion of Jesus (Mark 15:21-32)
Jesus is led to Golgotha, where He is crucified between two criminals. The inscription of the charge against Him reads, “The King of the Jews.” This fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10, “They will look on me, whom they have pierced.” Even though the crowd is mocking him, Jesus shows compassion and says, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do (Luke 23:34).
IV. The Death of Jesus (Mark 15:33-41)
At the moment of Jesus’ death, darkness covers the land, and the curtain of the temple is torn in two, showing the world the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of the New Covenant in Christ’s blood. The centurion, witnessing Jesus’ death, declares, “Truly this man was the Son of God,” affirming Jesus’ divine nature.
V. The Burial of Jesus (Mark 15:42-47)
Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, asks for Jesus’ body from Pilate. He wraps it in a linen shroud and lays it in a tomb cut out of rock, rolling a stone against the entrance. This act of faith fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:9, “And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death.”
Conclusion: Mark 15 is a speaks to the heart of believers across the world of the cost of our salvation. It tells of the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who endured the cross for the sake of humanity. The chapter also gives us the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies, confirming Jesus as the promised Messiah and the Savior of the world. As we read these verses of suffering about Jesus’ crucifixion, we as believers should be thankful for His love and sacrifice and encouraged to live in a manner worthy of His gift of grace to the world.
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