JESUS WAS CRUCIFIED AS KING OF THE JEWS

Mark 15:16-32 (K. V.: 15:26)

“The written notice of the charge against him read: the king of the jews.”

1. After being condemned and flogged, where was Jesus led and how does Mark describe the scene (16)? How did the soldiers mock Jesus and why (17-20)? What meaning can we find in Jesus submitting to such abuse (Mk 10:34; 1Pe 2:19-25)?

2. How might being forced to carry Jesus’ cross have changed Simon and his family (21; Ro 16:13)? What does this tell us about Jesus’ physical condition?

3. What is the significance of Jesus being led to Golgotha, the public place of execution (22; Gal 3:13; Heb 13:13)? Why did Jesus refuse the mixed drink (23)? What was crucifixion (24a)? Why is it stated so simply? How did the soldiers respond (24b)?

4. What time was Jesus crucified (25)? Read verse 26. For what charge was Jesus executed (15:2)? What does the “King of the Jews” mean (14:61-62; Jn 4:42b)? Why was Jesus crucified as the “King of the Jews” (8:31; Isa 53:10)? 

5. What was their purpose in crucifying him between two robbers (27)? Who taunted Jesus and why (29-32; 1Co 1:22-24)? Why did Jesus not save himself? What can we learn from him?