CHRIST, THE SIN-BEARER. JOHN 19 “I find no fault in Him.” John 19:1-4 One of the most remarkable events in Christ's life is the fascination with His death, both then and now. Crucifixes are displayed on buildings, in churches, and even worn as jewelry. The death of Christ has received more attention in art, music, and literature than that of any other person. It has garnered more focus than all other great men combined.
There was nothing beautiful about Christ's sufferings and His death. He died like a common criminal on a cross between two thieves. He had been severely beaten and then nailed to the cross. Despite the shame and cruelty faced by an innocent man, millions have been drawn to His cross over the centuries. Nothing like this exists in all of human history. The fact that the brutal death of a man on a cross nearly 2000 years ago—an ordinary man by most standards—should have such a universal appeal through the ages is something that has no rational explanation—except for the one He provided. “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep” [Jn.10:11]. He said, “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me” [Jn.12:32-33]. Again, He told Nicodemus, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so, must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have eternal life” [Jn.3:14-15].