The last few days of Jesus’ life were filled with significant events that had a profound impact on Christianity. Let’s take a closer look at what happened.
The Triumphal Entry
On Palm Sunday, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. The people of Jerusalem welcomed Him by laying down palm branches and their cloaks on the ground, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David” (Matthew 21:9). This event marked the beginning of what is now known as Holy Week.
The Last Supper
On Thursday night, Jesus gathered His disciples together to celebrate the Passover meal. During this Last Supper, Jesus instituted the sacrament of communion by breaking bread and sharing wine with His disciples. He also washed their feet, demonstrating the importance of serving others.
The Betrayal and Arrest
After the Last Supper, Jesus went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was there that Judas Iscariot betrayed Him with a kiss, leading to His arrest by Roman soldiers. Peter tried to defend Jesus by cutting off a soldier’s ear but was rebuked by Jesus (John 18:10-11).
The Trials
Jesus was taken before several authorities for trials, including Pontius Pilate and Herod Antipas. Despite finding no guilt in Him, Pilate gave in to pressure from the Jewish leaders and sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion.
The Crucifixion
On Friday, Jesus was crucified at Golgotha alongside two criminals. He endured immense physical pain and suffering before ultimately giving up His spirit and dying.
The Resurrection
Three days after His death, women who had gone to anoint Jesus’ body discovered that the tomb was empty. It was then that Jesus appeared to His disciples, proving that He had risen from the dead. This event marked the triumph of life over death and solidified Jesus’ divinity.
Conclusion
In summary, the last few days of Jesus’ life were filled with significant events that have shaped Christianity for centuries. From His triumphant entry into Jerusalem to His crucifixion and resurrection, these events serve as a reminder of God’s love and sacrifice for humanity.