Read the Bible in a Year This evening read John 18:19--40 The Death of Jesus When Pilate tried to give Jesus back to the Jews that they might judge Him according to their Law, the Jews responded that it was not lawful for them to put anyone to death. John then wrote, 32 ...that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled which He spoke, signifying by what death He would die (Joh. 18:32). Jesus had signified that He had to be lifted up (Joh. 3:14), which was a reference to the means of execution employed by the Romans, that of crucifixion. Why did Jesus have to go through the long death of crucifixion? Why could He not experience a stoning or some other form of quick death? For one thing, His death had to be witnessed by many people. They had to have plenty of time to think of what was happening. There had to be enough time for Him to utter His seven memorable sayings. The people needed a vivid image seared into their minds that they might be changed forever. Yes, there were many reasons for His long torturous death. It breaks our hearts, but His death also relieves us from eternal suffering from the wrath of God in hell. Don Ruhl Church of Christ 220 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, Oregon 97526-1310 541-476-3100 http://www.plymouth-church.com/dons_corner2.html http://associate.com/groups/emaildevotionals/