Overview of Day 317 (Luke 23, John 18–19) - Year 7
Tara‑Leigh Cobble recaps the second half of Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, death, and burial as recorded in Luke 23 and John 18–19 (with cross‑references in the other gospels). The episode describes the physical brutality of Roman crucifixion, the actions and words of Jesus on the cross, the theological implications (especially around Psalm 22 and the Trinity), miraculous signs surrounding his death, and the immediate aftermath including burial. The host also points listeners to archaeological articles and accessibility resources (ASL videos) in the show notes.
Key events covered
- Jesus endures trials, mockery, a crown of thorns, beating, and flogging ordered by Pilate.
- Jesus is forced (or collapses) while carrying the crossbeam; Simon of Cyrene is pressed into service to carry it for him.
- Jesus is crucified at Golgotha/Calvary (exact location uncertain — possibilities: Mount of Olives, Church of the Holy Sepulchre on the west, Garden Tomb on the north).
- Soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ clothes (fulfilling prophecy and possibly linked to resurrection imagery).
- Two criminals are crucified alongside Jesus — one mocks, the other repents and is promised immediate entry into the kingdom.
- Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1 ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"), later says, "It is finished," and commits his spirit to the Father.
- A soldier pierces Jesus’ side; blood and water flow out (medical explanation discussed — likely cardiac rupture leading to death).
- Joseph of Arimathea (and Nicodemus and women) request the body, anoint and wrap it, and lay Jesus in a nearby rock tomb sealed by a large stone.
- Miraculous signs recorded across the gospels: darkness at noon, the temple curtain torn top-to-bottom, Pilate’s inscription declaring Jesus “King of the Jews,” and Matthew’s account of tombs opening with resurrected saints walking in the city.
Historical & archaeological notes
- Jewish law limited scourging to 39 lashes; Romans often used harsher floggings and public crucifixions to intimidate.
- Simon of Cyrene likely traveled a long distance (Cyrene in North Africa — modern Libya — a significant journey to Jerusalem).
- Crucifixion likely involved carrying the crossbeam (patibulum) rather than a full cross; crucifixions were commonly done outside city walls along main roads.
- Three traditional sites for Golgotha: east (Mount of Olives), west (Church of the Holy Sepulchre, on Mount Moriah), and north (Garden Tomb). Mount Moriah links to Abraham’s near‑sacrifice as a Messianic typology.
- Archaeological finds referenced: an ankle bone discovered in 1968 and a more complete crucified skeleton in 2007 (neither related to Jesus) — these finds inform our understanding of crucifixion methods. (Links in show notes.)
Theological reflections & interpretations
- Psalm 22 quotation: Tara suggests Jesus’ cry may be intentionally invoking the whole Psalm as messianic prophecy ("this is about me"), not primarily expressing a literal, temporary abandonment by the Father.
- Trinity and divine presence: the host argues it’s theologically inconsistent to say any Person of the Trinity was ever literally separated from the others; she emphasizes the unity of Father, Son, and Spirit even in the crucifixion.
- Common teaching that “the Father turned his face away” is critiqued as a misreading (she references Psalm 22:24 — “He has not hidden his face from him” — and cautions that the idea God cannot look on sin can lead people to hide from God rather than run to him in repentance).
- The crucifixion is presented as both horrific and redemptive: Jesus’ suffering is real and brutal, and his death accomplishes atonement — “It is finished” signifies the completed work of salvation.
Notable quotes and moments highlighted
- “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” — Jesus quoting Psalm 22:1.
- Jesus’ promise to the repentant criminal: an immediate welcome into the kingdom (“Today you will be with me in paradise” / “That’s today. I’ll see you there.”).
- “It is finished.” — declaration of the completed saving work.
- Miraculous “God shots” the host selected: earthquake and resurrected saints (Matthew), Pilate’s inscription (John), darkness at noon and the temple curtain torn from top to bottom (Matthew/Mark/Luke).
Practical takeaways & resources
- The host encourages reflection on how Scripture frames the crucifixion: both the physical reality of suffering and its theological meaning (atonement, access to God).
- Show notes include:
- Articles on crucifixion archaeology (1968 ankle bone; 2007 crucified skeleton).
- Further reading on Psalm 22 and the Father‑Son relationship at the cross.
- ASL videos and language/accessibility resources (Languages tab at thebiblerecap.com) for deaf viewers/listeners.
- Warning: the episode notes the material may be graphic and not appropriate for young children.
Final summary
This episode closes the trial-to-burial narrative: it emphasizes the brutal reality of Jesus’ suffering, underscores prophetic fulfillment and surprising grace (the penitent thief welcomed immediately), corrects common theological misconceptions about divine separation at the cross, and points to several gospel “signs” that announce God’s action. The show pairs pastoral reflection with historical detail and points listeners to articles and accessibility options for deeper study.