Good Friday is a solemn day in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. Though marked by suffering and sorrow, it is called “good” because it led to the ultimate victory over sin and death.

The Betrayal and Arrest

Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot in the Garden of Gethsemane. As He prayed in anguish, fully aware of the suffering to come, He still submitted to the Father’s will:

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
— Luke 22:42 (NIV)

He was arrested, falsely accused, and brought before religious and political leaders.

The Trial and Condemnation

Jesus endured a series of unjust trials. Though Pilate found no fault in Him, the crowd shouted for His crucifixion:

“Crucify him! Crucify him!”
— Luke 23:21 (NIV)

Pilate ultimately gave in to the crowd’s demand.

“Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.”
— Mark 15:15 (NIV)

The Crucifixion

Jesus was led to Golgotha, nailed to the cross, and crucified between two criminals. Even in agony, He extended forgiveness:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
— Luke 23:34 (NIV)

At noon, darkness fell over the land, and at 3 p.m., Jesus cried out and breathed His last:

“It is finished.”
— John 19:30 (NIV)
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”
— Luke 23:46 (NIV)

The Significance

Jesus’ death fulfilled prophecy and opened the way for humanity’s reconciliation with God:

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
— Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

Through His sacrifice, we receive grace, forgiveness, and eternal life:

“God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
— Romans 5:8 (NIV)

Written By Ologunwa Emmanuel Oluwaseun