The Greeks Who Wanted to See Jesus: The Outsiders Who Heard About the Grain of Wheat.
Some Greeks who had come to worship at the festival approached Philip and said, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus." Philip told Andrew, and together they brought the request to Christ. The arrival of these outsiders signaled that interest in Jesus was reaching…
Read MoreHerod Antipas: The Curious Ruler Jesus Would Not Entertain.
Herod Antipas had heard about Jesus for a long time. He was the ruler who imprisoned and executed John the Baptist. When Pilate sent Jesus to him, Herod was pleased because he hoped to see a sign. Herod questioned Jesus at length. Jesus gave him no…
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Barabbas: The Guilty Man Released While Jesus Took His Place.
Barabbas was imprisoned for rebellion and murder. He was not an innocent man trapped by misunderstanding. His guilt was public and serious. During the Passover custom, Pilate offered the crowd a choice between Barabbas and Jesus. Influenced by the…
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Simon of Cyrene: The Passerby Compelled to Carry Jesus’ Cross.
Simon came from Cyrene in North Africa and was passing by as Jesus was led to crucifixion. Mark identifies him as the father of Alexander and Rufus, suggesting his family later became known among Christians. Roman soldiers compelled Simon to carry Jesus'…
Read MoreThe Centurion at the Cross: The Soldier Who Saw Who Jesus Was.
The centurion stood near the crucifixion as part of the Roman execution detail. He had likely seen condemned men die before. Jesus appeared to be another prisoner under imperial power. Darkness covered the land. Jesus cried out, breathed His last, and…
Read MoreJoseph of Arimathea: The Hidden Disciple Who Stepped Forward After the Cross.
Joseph of Arimathea was wealthy, respected, and a member of the council. Luke says he had not consented to the council's decision against Jesus. John describes him as a secret disciple because he feared the Jewish leaders. After Jesus died, Joseph did…
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