The last week of Jesus’ life is often referred to as the Passion Week. It was a week filled with emotions, teachings, and events that would ultimately lead to his crucifixion and resurrection. Let’s take a closer look at what happened during this significant week.
Day 1: Palm Sunday
On the first day of the week, Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling a prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. The people welcomed him by waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna!”
which means “Save us now!” This event is known as Palm Sunday and marks the beginning of Passion Week.
Day 2: Cleansing of the Temple
The next day, Jesus went to the temple and found merchants selling goods. He drove them out, saying “My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers.” This event is known as the Cleansing of the Temple.
Day 3-4: Teachings and Controversies
Jesus spent these days teaching in Jerusalem, often in conflict with the religious leaders. He spoke about many topics including paying taxes to Caesar (Mark 12:13-17), the greatest commandment (Mark 12:28-34), and the coming destruction of the temple (Mark 13).
Day 5: The Last Supper
On Thursday night, Jesus shared his last supper with his disciples. During this meal, he instituted the Lord’s Supper or Communion (Mark 14:22-25) and washed his disciples’ feet as an act of humility (John 13:1-17).
Day 6: The Crucifixion
On Friday morning, Jesus was arrested in Gethsemane and brought before Pilate, the Roman governor. Despite Pilate finding no fault in him, he was sentenced to death by crucifixion. Jesus was beaten, mocked, and forced to carry his own cross to Golgotha where he was crucified alongside two criminals.
Day 7: The Resurrection
On the third day after his death, which is now celebrated as Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead. He appeared to his disciples and many others before ascending into heaven.
Conclusion
The last week of Jesus’ life was a series of events that would change the course of history forever. From his triumphant entry into Jerusalem to his cruel crucifixion and miraculous resurrection, this week is a reminder of God’s love for us and the sacrifice that Jesus made for our salvation.