What happened to Jesus on Friday? This question has intrigued Christians and scholars for centuries, as it revolves around the pivotal event of crucifixion and resurrection. The Friday in question is commonly referred to as Good Friday, a day of solemn reflection and remembrance in the Christian faith. This article aims to delve into the historical and spiritual significance of what transpired on that fateful Friday, shedding light on the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The story of Jesus’ crucifixion is rooted in the New Testament of the Bible. According to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his twelve disciples. After the betrayal, Jesus was arrested by the Roman soldiers and brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. Pilate, unable to find Jesus guilty of any crime, ordered him to be scourged and crucified.
On Friday, Jesus was led to Golgotha, a hill outside Jerusalem, where he was crucified alongside two thieves. The crucifixion was a brutal form of execution, designed to cause immense pain and suffering. Jesus was nailed to a cross, with his hands and feet pierced by nails. As he hung on the cross, he endured physical pain, dehydration, and emotional turmoil. During this time, Jesus forgave those who crucified him and even asked God to forgive them for their sins.
The events of Good Friday are marked by several significant moments. One of the most poignant is when Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). This cry is believed to express the profound sense of isolation and abandonment Jesus felt during his crucifixion. Another crucial moment is when Jesus entrusted his mother, Mary, to the care of his disciple, John (John 19:26-27), symbolizing the depth of his love and concern for those he cared about.
As the day progressed, Jesus’ strength waned, and he eventually succumbed to death. The Bible records that at 3 p.m., Jesus exclaimed, “It is finished,” and expired on the cross (John 19:30). His death marked the culmination of his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.
After Jesus’ death, his body was taken down from the cross and laid in a tomb, which was sealed with a large stone. The following Sunday, Easter Sunday, is celebrated as the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event is considered the cornerstone of Christian faith, as it signifies the victory of good over evil and the promise of eternal life for believers.
The events of Good Friday and Easter Sunday have had a profound impact on the Christian world. They serve as a reminder of the suffering and sacrifice Jesus endured for the sake of humanity. Good Friday is a day of reflection, repentance, and gratitude, as Christians remember the love and grace of God in the life and death of Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, what happened to Jesus on Friday is a story of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The events of Good Friday and Easter Sunday have shaped the Christian faith and continue to inspire millions around the world. As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of the power of forgiveness, the depth of human suffering, and the hope of eternal life.
