Statements (John 19:31-42)

Introduction
Jesus death was accompanied by a number of events and a number of statements by individuals and groups of people. As he breathed his last, the earth beneath the cross shook violently. In fact, the men responsible for carrying out his sentence were shaken both physically and psychologically. They could not help but be shaken. They had experience a death like none other from a man who was obviously guiltless. They had heard only loving words and they had observed extreme agony mixed with pure majesty. In addition, the sky had been darkened for three hours in the middle of the day. And as this man breathed his last, the sun broke through and the ground shook. "Surely this was the Son of God!" This was no mere superstitious comment on the part of a practicing pagan. This was an exclamation of truth from the lips of a man who was overcome with the presence of God incarnate.

Not only did the ground around the cross shake, but the burial places of many dead saints was shaken. Shaken to the extent that the stones were broken. And not only were the inanimate objects shaken, but the decaying bodies were reanimated by the author of life. Death had been overcome by life and the dead saints entered the city upon Jesus resurrection. And observed by people who were available as witnesses.

The final shaking that took place upon Jesus' death was in the very place God had established in order to approach Him. Those who God had set apart for the purpose of being priests, Aaron's descendents, were given the task of interceding on behalf of God's people once a year. On the Day of Atonement, they carried blood two times into the Holy of Holies. Once for themselves (the blood of a bull) and once for the people (the blood of the goat). Other than the Day of Atonement, nobody ever entered or even looked behind the dividing curtain between the alter of incense and the Ark of the Covenant. But this day, during the time of the evening offering, perhaps even when incense was being burned on the alter, the ground began to shake. And when it shook this massive curtain, the thickness of a man's hand, ripped from top to bottom thus exposing the Holy of Holies. What a terrifying sight for the priest on duty. But what a glorious statement by God himself -- no longer would animal blood suffice to atone for sin. It is finished!

From The Cross (John 19:31-37)
The events at Jesus death confirm God's completed salvation plan.
How significant is Jesus' death to you? Who have you shared that significance with lately?
What kinds of statements do you make about Jesus? Are they true and accurate?
What statement about Jesus is your life making to those who are watching you?

To The Tomb (John 19:38-42)
The cross demands a reassessment of life in light of Jesus' death.
What is your most valued treasure? What should it be?
What have you done lately to show your love for the Savior?
Who have you told lately about Jesus death and what it means to you?
What are you willing to leave behind for Jesus' sake?