Notes: Nov. 30, 2021

Christ Crucified

Christ - a stumbling block for the Jews (had an image of a Messiah that would come and save them) and foolishness for the Greeks (Gods shouldn't be able to be killed by men). He wasn't how they thought he should be.

Importance of Cross for Latter-day Saints

Challenging relationship with cross. De-emphasize the cross in order to separate ourselves from other religions. However, causes us to be seen as "not Christian".

Though not a big part of material culture, it still is a major part of our beliefs.

So why is the cross important to us?

Sometimes we say that "we don't carry the weapon of death around" - not why others carry the cross around.

"He is risen" - an empty cross represents the same thing.

However, the cross is important to us because:

• it's such an integral part of the Atonement. Christ himself talked about his suffering on the cross.
• it's a symbol of God's love for us.
• it's an invitation to take up our cross (NT).
• the marks of the crucifixion were so important that Christ kept them after receiving a resurrected body.

Betrayal

Why did the Jews need Judas?

• legitimacy (if an apostle would betray him...)
• knows where to find him in quiet places
• maybe a part of the Atonement (needed to feel what it was like to have a close associate betray him)

Not a Roman arrest, but a Jewish Official arrest.

Judas says, "Hail, Rabbi (master)" and kisses him - a hollow expression of "love"

"Friend, wherefore art thou come?" - Judas, I've only been a friend to you, and now you come for me?

Why did Judas do it?

• Maybe he wanted Jesus prove that he was the Messiah in front of the officials
• Maybe he didn't believe in Jesus anymore.

Whatever the case, it obviously didn't turn out the way Judas wanted it to.

Trial

A lot of witnesses, don't agree with each other.

Finally, asks him if he is the Christ.

He responds in the affirmative, claiming that he will come as the Son of man later in his glory.

Denial

In the courtyard, Peter is accused of being with Jesus.

Not denying that Christ is the Son of God, just that he was associated with him. May have been a weak moment. But he became a lot more bold after this.

Crucifixion

Taken to Pilate, taken to Herod, taken back to Pilate.

Pilate condemns him for being King of the Jews.

Crucifixion was a terrible form of punishment, usually for non-Roman-citizens, slaves.

Chose the most crowded roads to make an example to others.

Cause of Death

Collapse of lungs

Heart is stressed, eventually fails