1. The Triumphal Entry

Nothing signaled the coming climax quite like Jesus’ grand entrance into Jerusalem. Crowds lined the streets, waving palm branches and celebrating with joyful expectation. As Scripture recounts, “The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed were shouting: ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’” (Matthew 21:9). This royal welcome emphasized Jesus’ role as the promised King and set the stage for the dramatic events to follow.

2. The Cleansing of the Temple

Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Jesus headed straight to the temple and confronted corruption head-on. He overturned tables and scattered coins, boldly declaring, “It is written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers’” (Matthew 21:13). This righteous action rattled the religious leaders, adding even more tension to the approaching showdown.

3. Heated Debates with Religious Leaders

Jesus’ growing popularity alarmed the chief priests and elders, who tried to trap Him with tricky questions and disputes. One such moment is recorded when an expert in the law tested Him with a question, saying, “Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the Law?” (Matthew 22:36). Each heated exchange only served to underscore His divine authority—and to further inflame His opponents.

4. The Anointing at Bethany

In a tender moment, a woman poured expensive perfume over Jesus as an act of deep reverence. Though some grumbled over the perceived waste, Jesus explained the timeless significance of her devotion by saying, “She has done a beautiful deed to Me” (Matthew 26:10). This loving gesture hinted at His impending burial, gently foreshadowing the solemn events that lay just around the corner.

5. Judas’s Agreement to Betray

Even as Jesus taught and transformed lives, betrayal was taking shape behind the scenes. Judas Iscariot, seduced by greed and disillusionment, struck a deal with the chief priests. Scripture captures the moment: “They counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. And from that time on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus” (Matthew 26:15–16). The plan for His arrest was now in motion.

6. The Last Supper

This intimate Passover meal with the disciples became the basis for believers remembering His sacrifice. During it, Jesus shared bread and wine, stating, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many” (Mark 14:24). The atmosphere brimmed with both warmth and sobering awareness that something monumental was about to happen.

7. Praying in Gethsemane

Late that night, Jesus sought solace in the Garden of Gethsemane. Overwhelmed, He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39). His anguish in that dark hour underscores His perfect obedience and profound compassion for humanity, forging the path toward the cross.

8. Judas’s Betrayal and the Arrest

The tranquility of the garden was shattered by soldiers and temple guards led by Judas—who sealed his betrayal with a kiss. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he said, and kissed Him (Matthew 26:49). That simple, twisted act sparked a chain reaction of events that would culminate in a Roman crucifixion, all according to a greater plan.

9. The Trial before the Jewish Council

Dragged before the religious authorities, Jesus faced false accusations and relentless questioning. Yet, He largely remained silent, fulfilling prophecies that foretold the Messiah would stand as a lamb led to the slaughter. When pressed, He finally affirmed His true identity, and the council condemned Him for blasphemy (Matthew 26:63–66).

10. The Roman Trial and Sentencing

Handed over to Pontius Pilate, Jesus endured a volatile crowd calling for His death. Though Pilate found no just cause, the pressure to appease the mob prevailed. Scripture summarizes, “Wishing to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged and handed Him over to be crucified” (Mark 15:15). This final verdict set into motion the darkest day in history—one that would soon blaze with ultimate hope through the resurrection.