‏ Luke 23

* Christ before Pilate. (1-5) Christ before Herod. (6-12)

Barabbas preferred to Christ. (13-25) Christ speaks of the

destruction of Jerusalem. (26-31) The crucifixion, The repentant

malefactor. (32-43) The death of Christ. (44-49) The burial of

Christ. (50-56)

1-5 Pilate well understood the difference between armed forces

and our Lord's followers. But instead of being softened by

Pilate's declaration of his innocence, and considering whether

they were not bringing the guilt of innocent blood upon

themselves, the Jews were the more angry. The Lord brings his

designs to a glorious end, even by means of those who follow the

devices of their own hearts. Thus all parties joined, so as to

prove the innocence of Jesus, who was the atoning sacrifice for

our sins. 6-12 Herod had heard many things of Jesus in Galilee, and out

of curiosity longed to see him. The poorest beggar that asked a

miracle for the relief of his necessity, was never denied; but

this proud prince, who asked for a miracle only to gratify his

curiosity, is refused. He might have seen Christ and his

wondrous works in Galilee, and would not, therefore it is justly

said, Now he would see them, and shall not. Herod sent Christ

again to Pilate: the friendships of wicked men are often formed

by union in wickedness. They agree in little, except in enmity

to God, and contempt of Christ. 13-25 The fear of man brings many into this snare, that they

will do an unjust thing, against their consciences, rather than

get into trouble. Pilate declares Jesus innocent, and has a mind

to release him; yet, to please the people, he would punish him

as an evil-doer. If no fault be found in him, why chastise him?

Pilate yielded at length; he had not courage to go against so

strong a stream. He delivered Jesus to their will, to be

crucified. 26-31 We have here the blessed Jesus, the Lamb of God, led as a

lamb to the slaughter, to the sacrifice. Though many reproached

and reviled him, yet some pitied him. But the death of Christ

was his victory and triumph over his enemies: it was our

deliverance, the purchase of eternal life for us. Therefore weep

not for him, but let us weep for our own sins, and the sins of

our children, which caused his death; and weep for fear of the

miseries we shall bring upon ourselves, if we slight his love,

and reject his grace. If God delivered him up to such sufferings

as these, because he was made a sacrifice for sin, what will he

do with sinners themselves, who make themselves a dry tree, a

corrupt and wicked generation, and good for nothing! The bitter

sufferings of our Lord Jesus should make us stand in awe of the

justice of God. The best saints, compared with Christ, are dry

trees; if he suffer, why may not they expect to suffer? And what

then shall the damnation of sinners be! Even the sufferings of

Christ preach terror to obstinate transgressors. 32-43 As soon as Christ was fastened to the cross, he prayed

for those who crucified him. The great thing he died to purchase

and procure for us, is the forgiveness of sin. This he prays

for. Jesus was crucified between two thieves; in them were shown

the different effects the cross of Christ would have upon the

children of men in the preaching the gospel. One malefactor was

hardened to the last. No troubles of themselves will change a

wicked heart. The other was softened at the last: he was

snatched as a brand out of the burning, and made a monument of

Divine mercy. This gives no encouragement to any to put off

repentance to their death-beds, or to hope that they shall then

find mercy. It is certain that true repentance is never too

late; but it is as certain that late repentance is seldom true.

None can be sure they shall have time to repent at death, but

every man may be sure he cannot have the advantages this

penitent thief had. We shall see the case to be singular, if we

observe the uncommon effects of God's grace upon this man. He

reproved the other for railing on Christ. He owned that he

deserved what was done to him. He believed Jesus to have

suffered wrongfully. Observe his faith in this prayer. Christ

was in the depth of disgrace, suffering as a deceiver, and not

delivered by his Father. He made this profession before the

wonders were displayed which put honour on Christ's sufferings,

and startled the centurion. He believed in a life to come, and

desired to be happy in that life; not like the other thief, to

be only saved from the cross. Observe his humility in this

prayer. All his request is, Lord, remember me; quite referring

it to Jesus in what way to remember him. Thus he was humbled in

true repentance, and he brought forth all the fruits for

repentance his circumstances would admit. Christ upon the cross,

is gracious like Christ upon the throne. Though he was in the

greatest struggle and agony, yet he had pity for a poor

penitent. By this act of grace we are to understand that Jesus

Christ died to open the kingdom of heaven to all penitent,

obedient believers. It is a single instance in Scripture; it

should teach us to despair of none, and that none should despair

of themselves; but lest it should be abused, it is contrasted

with the awful state of the other thief, who died hardened in

unbelief, though a crucified Saviour was so near him. Be sure

that in general men die as they live. 44-49 We have here the death of Christ magnified by the wonders

that attended it, and his death explained by the words with

which he breathed out his soul. He was willing to offer himself.

Let us seek to glorify God by true repentance and conversion; by

protesting against those who crucify the Saviour; by a sober,

righteous, and godly life; and by employing our talents in the

service of Him who died for us and rose again. 50-56 Many, though they do not make any show in outward

profession, yet, like Joseph of Arimathea, will be far more

ready to do real service, when there is occasion, than others

who make a greater noise. Christ was buried in haste, because

the sabbath drew on. Weeping must not hinder sowing. Though they

were in tears for the death of their Lord, yet they must prepare

to keep holy the sabbath. When the sabbath draws on, there must

be preparation. Our worldly affairs must be so ordered, that

they may not hinder us from our sabbath work; and our holy

affections so stirred up, that they may carry us on in it. In

whatever business we engage, or however our hearts may be

affected, let us never fail to get ready for, and to keep holy,

the day of sacred rest, which is the Lord's day.