◄ Luke 23 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Crucifixion In Luke 23, we encounter the depth of God's love for humanity, manifested in Jesus' crucifixion. Despite enduring grave injustice, mockery, and suffering, Jesus extends forgiveness, offers salvation, and entrusts Himself to the Father. This chapter encourages us to emulate Jesus' compassionate and trusting nature, reminding us of the triumph of divine love over human sinfulness and the hope of resurrection. Trial Before Pilate (Luke 23:1-5) Jesus is brought before Pilate, the Roman governor, accused of subverting the nation. Pilate finds no basis for the charges but sends Jesus to Herod upon learning that He is a Galilean. Jesus and Barabbas (Luke 23:6-25) Herod, finding no fault in Jesus, sends Him back to Pilate. Despite Pilate's efforts to release Jesus, the crowd demands the release of Barabbas, a criminal, and the crucifixion of Jesus. Crucifixion at Golgotha (Luke 23:26-33) Simon of Cyrene is forced to carry Jesus' cross to Golgotha, where Jesus is crucified between two criminals. Jesus and the Two Criminals (Luke 23:34-43) Despite the mockery and pain, Jesus prays, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." One criminal mocks Jesus, but the other recognizes Jesus' innocence and asks to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus assures him of salvation that day. Death and Burial of Jesus (Luke 23:44-56) Jesus dies, declaring, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." The centurion praises God, recognizing Jesus' righteousness. Joseph of Arimathea buries Jesus in a tomb. Luke 23 is a deeply moving chapter that unfolds the climactic moments of Jesus' life on earth: His trials, crucifixion, death, and burial. As the narrative progresses, we witness not only the depths of human cruelty and injustice, but also the heights of divine love, mercy, and the promise of salvation. Teaching Points The Trial of Jesus Luke 23:1-25 details the trial of Jesus before Pilate and Herod. Despite finding no fault in Him, Pilate succumbs to the crowd's demands. This highlights the theme of injustice and the fulfillment of Isaiah 53:7, He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. The Crucifixion Verses 26-43 describe the crucifixion, where Jesus is mocked and scorned. Yet, even in His suffering, He extends grace, saying, Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34). This demonstrates His divine love and mercy. The Repentant Thief In verses 39-43, one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus acknowledges His innocence and asks to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus responds, Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43), illustrating the immediacy of salvation through faith. The Death of Jesus Verses 44-49 describe the supernatural events surrounding Jesus' death, including darkness over the land and the tearing of the temple veil, symbolizing the new access to God through Christ. The Burial Verses 50-56 recount the burial of Jesus by Joseph of Arimathea, a righteous man who boldly requests Jesus' body, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9. Practical Applications Stand Firm in Truth Like Pilate, we may face pressure to conform to the world. We must stand firm in truth, even when it is unpopular. Extend Forgiveness Jesus' example of forgiving those who wronged Him challenges us to forgive others, reflecting His love and grace. Embrace Salvation The story of the repentant thief reminds us that it is never too late to turn to Christ and receive His gift of salvation. Live with Hope The tearing of the temple veil signifies our direct access to God. We can live with hope and confidence in our relationship with Him. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, Jesus is brought before Pilate, sent to Herod, and ultimately crucified. He is referred to as the "Christ" (Greek: Χριστός, Christos), meaning "Anointed One." 2. Pilate The Roman governor who presides over Jesus' trial. Pilate finds no fault in Jesus but ultimately consents to the crowd's demand for crucifixion. 3. Herod Antipas The tetrarch of Galilee, who questions Jesus after Pilate sends Him. Herod is curious about Jesus but mocks Him and sends Him back to Pilate. 4. The Chief Priests and Rulers Jewish religious leaders who accuse Jesus and demand His crucifixion. They are instrumental in bringing Jesus before Pilate. 5. The Crowd The assembly of people who demand Jesus' crucifixion and the release of Barabbas. Their cries influence Pilate's decision. 6. Barabbas A prisoner released instead of Jesus. He was imprisoned for insurrection and murder. 7. Simon of Cyrene Compelled to carry Jesus' cross. He is identified as coming from Cyrene, a region in North Africa. 8. The Women of Jerusalem A group of women who mourn and lament for Jesus as He is led to His crucifixion. Jesus addresses them directly. 9. The Two Criminals Crucified alongside Jesus, one on His right and the other on His left. One mocks Jesus, while the other asks to be remembered in His kingdom. 10. The Centurion A Roman officer who, upon witnessing Jesus' death, glorifies God and declares Jesus' innocence. 11. Joseph of Arimathea A member of the Council who did not consent to Jesus' condemnation. He requests Jesus' body and provides a tomb for His burial. Places 1. Pilate's Headquarters (Praetorium) This is where Jesus was brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, for trial. The term "Praetorium" refers to the governor's official residence or judgment hall. In the original Greek, the word used is "πραιτώριον" (praitorion). 2. Herod's Palace After Pilate learned that Jesus was a Galilean, he sent Him to Herod Antipas, who was in Jerusalem at the time. Herod's palace served as his residence when he was in the city. The Greek text refers to Herod's involvement without specifying the exact location within the palace. 3. Golgotha (The Skull) This is the site where Jesus was crucified. The name "Golgotha" is derived from the Aramaic word for "skull," and in Greek, it is "Γολγοθᾶ" (Golgotha). The Latin equivalent is "Calvary." 4. The Place of the Skull This is another reference to Golgotha, emphasizing its meaning. The Berean Standard Bible uses "The Skull" to describe the location, aligning with the Greek "Κρανίον" (Kranion). 5. The Temple While not a direct location of the events in Luke 23, the tearing of the temple veil is mentioned as a significant event following Jesus' death. The Greek word for temple is "ναός" (naos), indicating the inner sanctuary. 6. Joseph of Arimathea's Tomb Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Council, provided his own new tomb for Jesus' burial. This tomb was hewn out of rock and located in a garden near the crucifixion site. The Greek text refers to it as a "μνημεῖον" (mnemeion), meaning a memorial or tomb. Events 1. Jesus Before Pilate Jesus is brought before Pilate by the assembly, who accuse Him of misleading the nation and opposing payment of taxes to Caesar, claiming Himself to be Christ, a King (Luke 23:1-2). The Greek term "Christos" (Χριστός) means "Anointed One" or "Messiah." 2. Pilate Questions Jesus Pilate asks Jesus if He is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds, "You have said so" (Luke 23:3). The phrase "You have said so" (Σὺ λέγεις) is a Greek idiomatic expression affirming the statement. 3. Pilate Finds No Basis for a Charge Pilate tells the chief priests and the crowd that he finds no basis for a charge against Jesus (Luke 23:4). 4. Jesus Sent to Herod Upon learning that Jesus is a Galilean, Pilate sends Him to Herod, who is in Jerusalem at the time (Luke 23:6-7). 5. Herod Mocks Jesus Herod, hoping to see a miracle, questions Jesus but receives no answer. Herod and his soldiers mock Jesus, dress Him in a splendid robe, and send Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:8-11). 6. Pilate and Herod Become Friends Herod and Pilate, previously at odds, become friends that day (Luke 23:12). 7. Pilate Proposes to Release Jesus Pilate tells the crowd that neither he nor Herod found Jesus guilty of any crime deserving death and proposes to punish and release Him (Luke 23:13-16). 8. The Crowd Chooses Barabbas The crowd demands the release of Barabbas, a prisoner involved in an insurrection and murder, instead of Jesus (Luke 23:18-19). 9. Pilate Yields to the Crowd Despite Pilate's attempts to release Jesus, the crowd insists on crucifixion. Pilate eventually yields to their demand (Luke 23:20-24). 10. Simon of Cyrene Carries the Cross Simon of Cyrene is seized and made to carry the cross behind Jesus (Luke 23:26). 11. Jesus Speaks to the Daughters of Jerusalem Jesus addresses the women mourning for Him, warning them of future tribulations (Luke 23:27-31). 12. The Crucifixion Jesus is crucified at a place called The Skull, alongside two criminals (Luke 23:32-33). 13. Jesus Prays for His Persecutors Jesus prays, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). The Greek word "ἀφίημι" (aphíēmi) means to forgive or release. 14. The Soldiers Cast Lots for His Garments The soldiers divide Jesus' garments by casting lots (Luke 23:34). 15. The Mocking of Jesus The rulers, soldiers, and one of the criminals mock Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself (Luke 23:35-39). 16. The Repentant Criminal One criminal rebukes the other and asks Jesus to remember him when He comes into His kingdom. Jesus assures him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:40-43). 17. The Death of Jesus Darkness falls over the land, and the temple curtain is torn. Jesus calls out, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit," and breathes His last (Luke 23:44-46). The Greek word "παρατίθημι" (paratíthēmi) means to entrust or commit. 18. The Centurion's Declaration The centurion praises God, declaring Jesus innocent (Luke 23:47). 19. The Reaction of the Crowds The crowds, witnessing the events, return home beating their breasts (Luke 23:48). 20. The Women Witness from a Distance The women who followed Jesus from Galilee watch from a distance (Luke 23:49). 21. The Burial of Jesus Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Council, requests Jesus' body from Pilate, wraps it in linen, and lays it in a tomb (Luke 23:50-53). 22. The Women Prepare Spices The women prepare spices and perfumes for Jesus' body and rest on the Sabbath according to the commandment (Luke 23:54-56). Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 53 This chapter prophesies the suffering and sacrifice of the Messiah, fulfilled in Luke 23. Romans 5:8 But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. This verse underscores the love demonstrated in Luke 23. Hebrews 10:19-22 These verses discuss the significance of the torn veil, encouraging believers to draw near to God with confidence. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Salvation Thank God for the sacrifice of Jesus and the salvation it brings. Strength to Forgive Ask for the strength to forgive others as Christ forgave those who crucified Him. Courage to Stand for Truth Pray for the courage to stand firm in truth, even when faced with opposition. Hope and Assurance Seek assurance in the hope we have through Christ's death and resurrection, and the access we have to God. As we reflect on Luke 23, may we be moved by the depth of Christ's love and the power of His sacrifice, leading us to live lives that honor Him. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jesus' trial before Pilate challenge your understanding of justice? 2. What does the choice between Jesus and Barabbas reveal about human nature and societal values? 3. How do you perceive the role of Simon of Cyrene in Jesus' journey to Golgotha? 4. In the scene at Golgotha, what insights can you gain about suffering and sacrifice? 5. How does Jesus' interaction with the two criminals inform your understanding of mercy and salvation? 6. What is your response to Jesus' prayer for His persecutors? 7. How does Jesus' death impact your perception of His mission and identity? 8. How can the account of Jesus' burial deepen your appreciation of the Easter story? 9. How does the centurion's declaration after Jesus' death inspire your faith? 10. In what ways can you relate to the different responses of the two criminals towards Jesus? 11. How do Jesus' final words inform your understanding of His relationship with God the Father? 12. What lessons can you draw from Pilate's and Herod's handling of Jesus' trial for your life? 13. How does Jesus' assurance of salvation to the repentant criminal affect your understanding of grace? 14. How can we embody Jesus' compassion and forgiveness in our daily interactions? 15. In what ways does the burial account affirm Jesus' humanity? 16. How can Jesus' willingness to face suffering and death motivate you in times of hardship? 17. How does the crowd's choice of Barabbas over Jesus influence your understanding of societal pressures and groupthink? 18. How can we apply the lessons from Jesus' trial and crucifixion to modern issues of justice and truth? 19. How should Jesus' prayer for His persecutors influence our attitude towards those who wrong us? 20. What steps can we take to entrust ourselves fully to God, as Jesus did at His death? Topics 1. Jesus Before Pilate In Luke 23:1-5, Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate by the assembly, who accuse Him of misleading the nation and opposing the payment of taxes to Caesar. Pilate questions Jesus, asking if He is the King of the Jews, to which Jesus responds affirmatively. Despite the accusations, Pilate finds no basis for a charge against Him. 2. Jesus Before Herod Verses 6-12 describe how Pilate, upon learning that Jesus is a Galilean, sends Him to Herod Antipas, who was in Jerusalem at the time. Herod is eager to see Jesus, hoping to witness a miracle. However, Jesus remains silent in the face of Herod's questioning. Herod and his soldiers mock Jesus and send Him back to Pilate. 3. Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified In verses 13-25, Pilate attempts to release Jesus, finding no guilt in Him deserving death. However, the crowd demands the release of Barabbas, a prisoner involved in insurrection and murder, and insists on crucifying Jesus. Pilate ultimately concedes to their demands. 4. The Crucifixion Verses 26-43 detail the journey to Golgotha, where Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry the cross for Jesus. Jesus speaks to the women mourning for Him, prophesying the coming tribulations. At the crucifixion site, Jesus is nailed to the cross between two criminals. Despite the mockery from the rulers and soldiers, Jesus prays for their forgiveness. One of the criminals acknowledges Jesus' innocence and asks to be remembered in His kingdom, to which Jesus promises him paradise. 5. The Death of Jesus In verses 44-49, darkness covers the land, and the temple veil is torn. Jesus cries out with a loud voice, committing His spirit into the Father's hands, and breathes His last. The centurion witnessing these events glorifies God, acknowledging Jesus' righteousness. The crowds, struck with remorse, return home, while Jesus' acquaintances and the women from Galilee observe from a distance. 6. The Burial of Jesus Verses 50-56 describe Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Council who had not consented to their decision, requesting Jesus' body from Pilate. Joseph wraps the body in linen and places it in a new tomb. The women who followed Jesus prepare spices and perfumes, resting on the Sabbath according to the commandment. Themes 1. The Trial of Jesus The chapter begins with Jesus being brought before Pilate. The religious leaders accuse Him of misleading the nation and claiming to be a king. Pilate finds no basis for a charge against Jesus, but the crowd insists on His crucifixion. This theme highlights the fulfillment of prophecy and the innocence of Jesus amidst false accusations. The Greek term "κατηγορέω" (katēgoreō) is used for "accuse," emphasizing the legal and formal nature of the charges. 2. The Role of Pilate and Herod Pilate sends Jesus to Herod, who was in Jerusalem at the time. Herod, curious about Jesus, questions Him but ultimately mocks Him and sends Him back to Pilate. This theme underscores the political dynamics and the reluctance of both leaders to take responsibility for Jesus' fate. The interaction between Pilate and Herod also fulfills the prophecy of Jesus being rejected by both Jewish and Gentile authorities. 3. The Choice of Barabbas Pilate offers to release Jesus or Barabbas, a known criminal, to the crowd. The crowd chooses Barabbas, illustrating the rejection of the Messiah in favor of a sinner. This theme reflects the substitutionary aspect of Jesus' sacrifice, as the innocent is condemned while the guilty is set free. The Greek word "ἀπολύω" (apolyō) is used for "release," indicating the granting of freedom. 4. The Crucifixion of Jesus Jesus is led away to be crucified, and Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry His cross. The crucifixion is a central theme, representing the atoning sacrifice of Jesus for the sins of humanity. The Greek term "σταυρόω" (stauroō) is used for "crucify," signifying the method of execution and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. 5. The Mocking and Insults As Jesus hangs on the cross, He is mocked by the rulers, soldiers, and one of the criminals crucified alongside Him. This theme highlights the humiliation and suffering Jesus endured, fulfilling the prophecy of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53. The Greek word "ἐμπαίζω" (empaizō) is used for "mock," indicating derision and scorn. 6. The Repentant Criminal One of the criminals acknowledges Jesus' innocence and asks to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus promises him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43). This theme emphasizes the grace and mercy of Jesus, offering salvation even in the final moments of life. The Greek term "παράδεισος" (paradeisos) is used for "Paradise," referring to a place of blessedness. 7. The Death of Jesus Darkness falls over the land, and Jesus breathes His last after committing His spirit into the Father's hands. The tearing of the temple veil signifies the new access to God through Jesus' sacrifice. This theme underscores the completion of Jesus' earthly mission and the establishment of a new covenant. The Greek word "ἐκπνέω" (ekpneō) is used for "breathed His last," indicating the moment of death. 8. The Burial of Jesus Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the council, requests Jesus' body and lays it in a tomb. This theme highlights the fulfillment of prophecy regarding Jesus' burial and the role of faithful followers in His final earthly moments. The Greek term "ἐνταφιάζω" (entaphiazō) is used for "bury," signifying the act of preparing the body for burial. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions