The Weight Of The Cross
Luke 23:26–49
Pastor Philip Miller
In a world driven by entertainment and ease, we tend to avoid heavy, sobering realities. Good Friday confronts us with the horror and agony of Jesus’ crucifixion—an event many would rather skip in favor of Easter’s joy. Yet, the cross holds profound goodness, glory, and triumph. Luke 23 draws us into this weighty moment, calling us not to look away but to see the suffering of Jesus as our salvation. His cross is not only His burden—it’s ours too, because His sacrifice was made for us.
Cosmic Treason:
- Death is hanging over all
- As Jesus stumbles under the weight of the cross, Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry it, unknowingly participating in God’s greater redemption. Jesus warns the mourning women of Jerusalem not to weep for Him, but for themselves, as judgment is coming due to Israel’s rejection of the Messiah. This rejection is not just national—it is humanity’s rejection of its Creator. The crucifixion is not merely unjust; it is cosmic treason against God.
Enemy Love:
- Forgiveness is offered for all
- Despite brutal treatment and mocking, Jesus responds with compassion: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” While others mock His identity as King and Savior, Jesus shows true divine love, interceding even for His enemies. His prayer for forgiveness holds back divine judgment and extends mercy to all.
Gracious Salvation:
- Hope is available to all
- One criminal mocks Jesus, but the other, recognizing Jesus’ innocence, asks to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus assures him, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” This demonstrates that salvation is by grace through faith, not through deeds or religious performance. Hope is available to all who call on Jesus.
Childlike Trust:
- Jesus is the substitute for all
- As darkness falls and the temple curtain tears, Jesus entrusts His spirit to the Father with childlike faith. This act of trust marks the completion of His mission. The centurion, witnessing it all, declares Jesus’ innocence. Nature itself responds to His death, affirming that the Innocent One died for the guilty. Jesus is the substitute for all.
Takeaway: Jesus’ gave Himself for us all
Jesus’ death on the cross was in our place and for our sake. He bore our sin and gave us His righteousness. The cross is heavy, not just because of its suffering, but because it carries the weight of our redemption.
