The Passion

The Passion of Jesus Christ refers to the events leading up to and including His crucifixion, a central element of Christian theology. This period begins with the Last Supper, where Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper. During this meal, Jesus predicts His betrayal by Judas Iscariot and Peter's denial (Matthew 26:21-25, 34-35).

Following the Last Supper, Jesus retreats to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray, expressing deep sorrow and distress over the impending suffering. He prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). This moment highlights His submission to the Father's will, despite the agony He faces.

Jesus is then arrested, betrayed by Judas with a kiss (Matthew 26:48-50). He is taken to the Sanhedrin, where He is falsely accused and condemned for blasphemy. The Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, reluctantly orders His crucifixion, despite finding no fault in Him (John 19:4-6).

The crucifixion takes place at Golgotha, where Jesus is nailed to the cross between two criminals. As He suffers, He utters several significant statements, including, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). His death is marked by supernatural events, such as darkness over the land and the tearing of the temple veil (Matthew 27:45-51).

The Resurrection

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, signifying His victory over sin and death. On the third day after His crucifixion, Jesus rises from the dead, as He had foretold (Matthew 16:21). This event is first discovered by women who visit the tomb and find it empty. An angel announces, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6).

Jesus appears to His disciples multiple times after His resurrection, providing them with proof of His physical resurrection by showing His wounds and eating with them (Luke 24:39-43). These appearances strengthen the disciples' faith and prepare them for their mission to spread the Gospel.

The resurrection is pivotal in Christian doctrine, affirming Jesus as the Son of God and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The Apostle Paul emphasizes its importance, stating, "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith" (1 Corinthians 15:14).

The Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ are celebrated annually during Holy Week, culminating in Easter Sunday, which commemorates His resurrection. These events are foundational to the Christian understanding of salvation, redemption, and eternal life.