The Soldiers Mock Jesus 1Then Pilate took Jesus and had Him flogged. 2The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns, set it on His head, and dressed Him in a purple robe. 3And they went up to Him again and again, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and slapping Him in the face. 4Once again Pilate came out and said to the Jews, “Look, I am bringing Him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against Him.” 5When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, “Here is the man!” 6As soon as the chief priests and officers saw Him, they shouted, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” “You take Him and crucify Him,” Pilate replied, “for I find no basis for a charge against Him.” 7“We have a law,” answered the Jews, “and according to that law He must die, because He declared Himself to be the Son of God.” 8When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid, 9and he went back into the Praetorium. “Where are You from?” he asked. 10So Pilate said to Him, “Do You refuse to speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You and authority to crucify You?” 11Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.” 12From then on, Pilate tried to release Him, but the Jews kept shouting, “If you release this man, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who declares himself a king is defying Caesar.” 13When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat on the judgment seat at a place called the Stone Pavement, which in Hebrewa is Gabbatha. 14It was the day of Preparation for the Passover, about the sixth hour.b And Pilate said to the Jews, “Here is your King!” 15At this, they shouted, “Away with Him! Away with Him! Crucify Him!” “Shall I crucify your King?” Pilate asked. “We have no king but Caesar,” replied the chief priests. The Crucifixion 16Then Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified, and the soldiers took Him away. 17Carrying His own cross, He went out to The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. 18There they crucified Him, and with Him two others, one on each side, with Jesus in the middle. 19Pilate also had a notice posted on the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. 21So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but only that He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’” 22Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” 23When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they divided His garments into four parts, one for each soldier, with the tunic remaining. It was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. 24So they said to one another, “Let us not tear it. Instead, let us cast lots to see who will get it.” This was to fulfill the Scripture: “They divided My garments among them, and cast lots for My clothing.”c So that is what the soldiers did. 25Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother and her sister, as well as Mary the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene. 26When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, here is your son.” 27Then He said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” So from that hour, this disciple took her into his home. The Death of Jesus 28After this, knowing that everything had now been accomplished, and to fulfill the Scripture, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.”d 29A jar of sour winee was sitting there. So they soaked a sponge in the wine, put it on a stalk of hyssop, and lifted it to His mouth.f 30When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished.” And bowing His head, He yielded up His spirit. Jesus’ Side Is Pierced 31It was the day of Preparation, and the next day was a High Sabbath. In order that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath, the Jews asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies removed. 32So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and those of the other. 33But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out. 35The one who saw it has testified to this, and his testimony is true. He knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also may believe. 36Now these things happened so that the Scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of His bones will be broken.”g 37And, as another Scripture says: “They will look on the One they have pierced.”h The Burial of Jesus 38Afterward, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus (but secretly for fear of the Jews), asked Pilate to let him remove the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission, so he came and removed His body. 39Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, also brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.i 40So they took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom. 41Now there was a garden in the place where Jesus was crucified, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42And because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and the tomb was nearby, they placed Jesus there. Footnotes: 13 a Or in Aramaic; also in verses 17 and 20 14 b That is, about noon 24 c Psalm 22:18 28 d See Psalm 22:15. 29 e Or A jar of wine vinegar; similarly in verse 30 29 f See Psalm 69:21. 36 g Psalm 34:20; see also Exodus 12:46 and Numbers 9:12. 37 h Zechariah 12:10 39 i Greek about a hundred litras; that is, approximately 34 kilograms Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  John 19 Summary The CrucifixionVerses 1–3 – Jesus Scourged and Mocked Verses 4–7 – Pilate’s First Appeal Fails Verses 8–11 – Private Conversation with Pilate Verses 12–16 – Sentenced to Die Verses 17–22 – Crucified at Golgotha Verses 23–24 – Garments Divided Verses 25–27 – Care for His Mother Verses 28–30 – “It Is Finished” Verses 31–37 – Pierced Side, Unbroken Bones Verses 38–42 – Burial in a New Tomb John 19 is a poignant chapter that presents the climax of Jesus' earthly life - His crucifixion. It recounts His final hours, from His encounter with Pontius Pilate to His death and burial. The chapter paints a profound picture of sacrifice, fulfillment of prophecy, and the demonstration of Jesus' kingship even in suffering. Historical Setting: Rome and Jerusalem • Judea under Roman rule was tense during Passover, when the city swelled with pilgrims. • Pontius Pilate, prefect from AD 26-36, balanced Rome’s interests with volatile local leadership. • The charges against Jesus blended politics (a rival “king”) and religion (blasphemy). Pilate’s Judgment Seat: The Pavement (Gabbatha) Archaeologists have uncovered a large stone pavement beneath the Sisters of Zion convent in Jerusalem. Many scholars link this Lithostrotos to John 19:13. Dice-like markings scratched into the stones match games Roman soldiers played, lending authenticity to the setting. Scourging and Crown of Thorns • Roman flogging used leather straps embedded with bone or metal; victims often died from blood loss. • The thorny crown mocked Jesus’ kingship and likely came from the date palm or Syrian Christ’s thorn, both abundant near Jerusalem. • Isaiah 50:6—“I offered My back to those who struck Me”—foreshadows the scene. Crucifixion Practices in the First Century • Victims carried the crossbeam (patibulum) to the execution site. • Nails pierced wrists (the Greek word for “hand” includes the wrist) and ankles; wood fragments and nails bearing crucifixion marks have been found at Giv‘at ha-Mivtar. • A titulus, naming the crime, was standard; Pilate’s trilingual sign met Roman custom and warned all ethnic groups present. Golgotha and the Garden Tomb • “Place of the Skull” may describe the hill’s shape or its use as an execution site. • Both the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Garden Tomb lie outside the first-century city walls, fitting John’s note that the place was “near the city.” • Nearby rock-hewn tombs dating to the period show rolling-stone entrances like the one implied in John 20:1. Fulfilled Scripture in John 19 • Psalm 22:18 – division of garments. • Psalm 22:1, 7-8 – mockery and anguish echo across the scene. • Isaiah 53 – the Suffering Servant silent before oppressors. • Exodus 12:46; Numbers 9:12 – Passover lamb’s bones not broken. • Zechariah 12:10 – “They will look on the One they have pierced.” • Psalm 69:21 – “They gave Me vinegar for My thirst.” Key Themes and Spiritual Lessons 1. Kingship: Jesus wears both thorns and the title “King of the Jews,” revealing true authority through suffering. 2. Substitution: Barabbas, a guilty man, is released while the innocent Jesus dies—a vivid exchange. 3. Completion: “It is finished” signals that the debt of sin is paid in full; the Greek term tetelestai appeared on receipts meaning “paid.” 4. Care for Family: Even in agony, Jesus honors His mother, living out the command to honor father and mother (Exodus 20:12). 5. Bold Discipleship: Joseph and Nicodemus step into the open when boldness is most dangerous, modeling courage. Connections to Other Gospel Accounts • Matthew 27 and Mark 15 share the soldiers’ mockery and the offer of sour wine; Luke 23 alone records Jesus’ words to the repentant criminal. • Only John notes the seamless tunic and Jesus’ mother entrusted to the beloved disciple. • John’s eye-witness emphasis: “He who saw it has testified” (19:35). Character Studies • Pilate – conflicted politician, declares Jesus innocent yet capitulates. • The Soldiers – brutal yet unwitting instruments fulfilling Scripture. • Mary – stands near the cross, her earlier prophecy from Simeon (“a sword will pierce your own soul,” Luke 2:35) reaching its peak. • Joseph of Arimathea – a secret follower now public, offering an expensive rock-cut tomb. • Nicodemus – once came by night (John 3), now brings a lavish amount of spices, displaying devotion. Archaeological Notes on Burial Spices and Linen • Seventy-five Roman pounds (about 34 kg) of myrrh and aloes signal a royal burial, fitting with Isaiah 53:9, “He was with a rich man in His death.” • Linen strips rather than a single shroud match finds in first-century Jewish tombs—individual wrappings around limbs with a separate cloth for the head (John 20:7). Language Notes • “Behold the Man!” (19:5) echoes the Hebrew phrase of Zechariah 6:12 about the coming Branch. • “It is finished” (19:30) uses a perfect tense verb meaning an action completed with ongoing results. • “Gabbatha” is Aramaic, “Lithostrotos” Greek, underscoring the tri-lingual, multi-cultural milieu of Jerusalem. Christ’s Final Words: “It Is Finished.” The shout is not defeat but victory. Every Gospel records a loud cry (Matthew 27:50; Mark 15:37; Luke 23:46), but John gives the actual words. Heaven’s plan, sketched from Genesis 3:15 onward, comes to its climax here. Because it is finished, the account of resurrection and new life can begin. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 53:5The prophecy of the suffering servant, fulfilled in Jesus' crucifixion. Psalm 22:16-18 A vivid depiction of the crucifixion, fulfilled in John 19. Hebrews 9:28 Christ's sacrifice once for all, echoing the finality of It is finished. Romans 5:8 God's love demonstrated through Christ's death for us. Teaching Points The Trial and Sentencing of JesusPilate's struggle with the decision to crucify Jesus, despite finding no fault in Him (John 19:4-6). The fulfillment of prophecy as Jesus is sentenced to be crucified (John 19:16). The Crucifixion The significance of Jesus carrying His own cross to Golgotha (John 19:17). The inscription Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews and its implications (John 19:19-22). The Fulfillment of Scripture The soldiers casting lots for Jesus' garments, fulfilling Psalm 22:18 (John 19:23-24). Jesus' declaration It is finished, signifying the completion of His earthly mission (John 19:30). The Death and Burial of Jesus The piercing of Jesus' side, fulfilling Zechariah 12:10 (John 19:34-37). The role of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus in Jesus' burial, demonstrating courage and faith (John 19:38-42). Practical Applications Reflect on the SacrificeContemplate the depth of Christ's love and sacrifice for humanity and how it should impact our daily lives. Embrace Fulfillment of Prophecy Recognize the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus' crucifixion as a testament to God's sovereign plan. Live with Courage and Faith Like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, be bold in your faith, even when it requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Proclaim the Finished Work Share the message of It is finished with others, emphasizing the completeness of Christ's work on the cross for our salvation. People 1. JesusCentral figure of the chapter, referred to as "Jesus" (Greek: Ἰησοῦς, Iēsous). He is the one being crucified, fulfilling the prophecies of the Messiah. 2. Pilate The Roman governor, known as "Pilate" (Greek: Πιλᾶτος, Pilatos), who presides over the trial of Jesus and ultimately authorizes His crucifixion. 3. The Jews Referred to collectively as "the Jews" (Greek: Ἰουδαῖοι, Ioudaioi), they are the religious leaders and people who demand Jesus' crucifixion. 4. The Chief Priests Part of the Jewish leadership, they play a significant role in pushing for Jesus' execution. 5. The Soldiers Roman soldiers who carry out the crucifixion, mock Jesus, and divide His garments. 6. Mary, the mother of Jesus Present at the crucifixion, she is referred to simply as "His mother" in the text. 7. Mary, the wife of Clopas One of the women present at the crucifixion, identified as "Mary the wife of Clopas." 8. Mary Magdalene Another woman present at the crucifixion, known for her close association with Jesus. 9. The Disciple Whom Jesus Loved Traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel, he is present at the crucifixion and is entrusted with the care of Jesus' mother. 10. Joseph of Arimathea A secret disciple of Jesus who asks Pilate for Jesus' body to provide a proper burial. 11. Nicodemus Previously mentioned in John 3, he assists Joseph of Arimathea in preparing Jesus' body for burial. Places 1. The PraetoriumDescription: The Praetorium is the Roman governor's headquarters where Jesus was taken to be judged by Pontius Pilate. In John 19:1, it is where Jesus was flogged and mocked by the soldiers. The term "Praetorium" comes from the Latin "praetorium," referring to the general's tent in a Roman camp, and by extension, the governor's residence. 2. Gabbatha (The Stone Pavement) Description: Gabbatha, also known as the Stone Pavement, is mentioned in John 19:13. It is the place where Pilate sat on the judgment seat to pronounce the sentence on Jesus. The name "Gabbatha" is of Aramaic origin, meaning "elevated place" or "ridge." 3. Golgotha (The Place of the Skull) Description: Golgotha is the site where Jesus was crucified, as noted in John 19:17. The name "Golgotha" is Aramaic for "Place of the Skull," and it is translated in Latin as "Calvary." It was located outside the city walls of Jerusalem. 4. The Garden Description: In John 19:41, a garden is mentioned as the location where Jesus was buried. This garden contained a new tomb, which belonged to Joseph of Arimathea. The Greek word used here is "kēpos," meaning a cultivated area or garden. Events 1. Jesus is Flogged and MockedPilate orders Jesus to be flogged. The soldiers twist together a crown of thorns, place it on His head, and dress Him in a purple robe, mocking Him as the "King of the Jews" (John 19:1-3). 2. Pilate Presents Jesus to the Crowd Pilate brings Jesus out to the crowd, declaring, "Behold the Man!" (John 19:5). Despite Pilate's attempts to release Him, the chief priests and officers cry out for crucifixion (John 19:6). 3. Pilate's Fear and Further Interrogation Pilate becomes more afraid after hearing that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God. He questions Jesus further, but Jesus remains mostly silent, fulfilling prophecy (John 19:7-9). 4. Pilate's Authority and Jesus' Response Pilate asserts his authority to release or crucify Jesus. Jesus responds, "You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above" (John 19:10-11), indicating divine sovereignty. 5. Pilate Attempts to Release Jesus Pilate seeks to release Jesus, but the Jews insist, "If you release this man, you are not a friend of Caesar" (John 19:12), pressuring Pilate politically. 6. Jesus is Sentenced to Crucifixion Pilate capitulates to the crowd's demands and hands Jesus over to be crucified (John 19:16). 7. The Crucifixion of Jesus Jesus is led to Golgotha and crucified between two others. Pilate places a sign above Him reading, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews" (John 19:17-19). 8. Division of Jesus' Garments The soldiers divide Jesus' garments and cast lots for His seamless tunic, fulfilling Scripture (John 19:23-24). 9. Jesus Entrusts Mary to John Jesus sees His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby. He entrusts His mother to John's care, saying, "Woman, here is your son" (John 19:26-27). 10. Jesus' Death Jesus, knowing that all was now completed, says, "I am thirsty," fulfilling Scripture. After receiving sour wine, He declares, "It is finished," and gives up His spirit (John 19:28-30). 11. The Piercing of Jesus' Side To ensure Jesus' death, a soldier pierces His side with a spear, resulting in a flow of blood and water, fulfilling prophecy (John 19:34-37). 12. The Burial of Jesus Joseph of Arimathea, with Nicodemus, takes Jesus' body and wraps it in linen with spices. They lay Him in a new tomb in a nearby garden (John 19:38-42). Topics 1. Jesus is Flogged and Mocked (John 19:1-3)Pilate orders Jesus to be flogged, and the soldiers mock Him by placing a crown of thorns on His head and dressing Him in a purple robe. The Greek word for "flogged" (ἐμαστίγωσεν, emastigōsen) indicates a severe beating, often used as a form of punishment. 2. Pilate Presents Jesus to the Crowd (John 19:4-7) Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd, declaring Him innocent, but the chief priests and officers demand His crucifixion, citing the law that He claimed to be the Son of God. The term "Son of God" (Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, Huios tou Theou) is central to the charge against Jesus. 3. Pilate’s Fear and Further Interrogation (John 19:8-12) Pilate becomes more afraid upon hearing Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and questions Him further. Jesus speaks of authority, indicating that Pilate's power is granted from above, using the Greek word ἐξουσία (exousia) for authority. 4. Pilate’s Reluctance and the Crowd’s Demand (John 19:13-16) Despite Pilate's attempts to release Jesus, the crowd insists on crucifixion, threatening Pilate with disloyalty to Caesar. The term "crucify" (σταυρωθῇ, staurōthē) is a key term, reflecting the Roman method of execution. 5. The Crucifixion of Jesus (John 19:17-22) Jesus carries His cross to Golgotha, where He is crucified between two others. Pilate writes "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews" on the inscription, using the Greek term βασιλεὺς (basileus) for king. 6. The Division of Jesus’ Garments (John 19:23-24) The soldiers divide Jesus' garments and cast lots for His seamless tunic, fulfilling Scripture. The Greek word for "cast lots" (ἔβαλον κλῆρον, ebalon klēron) indicates a method of decision-making by chance. 7. Jesus’ Care for His Mother (John 19:25-27) Jesus entrusts the care of His mother, Mary, to the beloved disciple, demonstrating His concern for familial responsibilities even in His final moments. 8. The Death of Jesus (John 19:28-30) Jesus declares "It is finished" (Τετέλεσται, Tetelestai) and gives up His spirit, signifying the completion of His earthly mission and the fulfillment of Scripture. 9. The Piercing of Jesus’ Side (John 19:31-37) To ensure Jesus' death, a soldier pierces His side, fulfilling the prophecy that not one of His bones would be broken. The Greek word for "pierced" (ἔνυξεν, enuxen) indicates a specific act of piercing. 10. The Burial of Jesus (John 19:38-42) Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus prepare Jesus' body for burial, placing it in a new tomb. The Greek term for "tomb" (μνημεῖον, mnēmeion) refers to a burial place, often hewn from rock. Themes 1. The Suffering and Crucifixion of JesusJohn 19 details the physical and emotional suffering of Jesus, emphasizing His role as the sacrificial Lamb. The chapter describes the scourging, mocking, and crucifixion, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah's suffering. The Greek word "σταυρόω" (stauroō) is used for "crucify," highlighting the brutal method of execution. 2. Fulfillment of Prophecy Throughout John 19, there are multiple references to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. For instance, John 19:24 states, "This happened that the Scripture might be fulfilled: 'They divided My garments among them, and cast lots for My clothing.'" This reflects the Hebrew Scriptures, specifically Psalm 22:18. 3. The Kingship of Jesus Pilate's inscription on the cross, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews" (John 19:19), underscores the theme of Jesus' kingship. Despite the mockery, this title affirms Jesus' royal identity, aligning with the Greek term "βασιλεύς" (basileus), meaning king. 4. The Obedience and Submission of Jesus Jesus' submission to the Father's will is evident in His acceptance of the crucifixion. John 19:30 records His final words, "It is finished," indicating the completion of His earthly mission. The Greek term "τετέλεσται" (tetelestai) signifies the fulfillment of His redemptive work. 5. The Role of Pilate and Human Authority Pilate's interactions with Jesus and the Jewish leaders highlight the tension between divine and human authority. Despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, Pilate succumbs to political pressure, illustrating the limitations and failures of human governance. 6. The Faithfulness of Jesus' Followers The presence of Jesus' mother, Mary, and the beloved disciple at the crucifixion (John 19:25-27) demonstrates the loyalty and faithfulness of His followers. This scene also emphasizes the establishment of a new spiritual family among believers. 7. The Significance of Jesus' Death The piercing of Jesus' side and the flow of blood and water (John 19:34) symbolize the sacrificial nature of His death, which provides atonement and purification for sin. This act fulfills the Hebrew concept of sacrificial atonement found in the Old Testament. Answering Tough Questions 1. Why does John 19:14 seem to conflict with Mark 15:25 regarding the timing of Jesus’ crucifixion? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Jesus' interaction with Pilate reveal about His understanding of His mission? 2. How does the scene of Jesus' crucifixion impact your understanding of His sacrifice? 3. Why do you think John emphasized the fulfillment of scripture in his account of Jesus' death? 4. How does Jesus' care for His mother even from the cross speak to His character? 5. What significance can you find in Jesus' final words, "It is finished"? 6. How does the involvement of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus in Jesus' burial impact your understanding of faith and devotion? 7. What can we learn about suffering and redemption from Jesus' experience in this chapter? 8. How does John portray Jesus' kingship even in His suffering and death? 9. How can we understand and apply the concept of sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus in our own lives? 10. How does knowing the details of Jesus' death and burial deepen your faith? 11. How does John 19 speak to the reliability of scripture as prophecy is fulfilled? 12. In what ways does Jesus' death challenge your understanding of power and leadership? 13. How does Jesus' trial and crucifixion speak to issues of justice and truth? 14. How can we draw strength from Jesus' willingness to endure suffering? 15. How should the account of Jesus' death impact our approach to life's difficulties? 16. What is the significance of blood and water flowing from Jesus' side? 17. How does this chapter's account of Jesus' death resonate with you personally? 18. How can the narrative of Jesus' trial, crucifixion, and burial guide us in our personal and social lives? 19. In the light of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, how should we respond to Him and live our lives? 20. In what ways does Jesus' care for His mother inspire you in your relationships with your family? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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