Good Friday

Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a pivotal event in Christian theology that represents His substitutionary sacrifice for humanity's sins.

Theological Significance

Good Friday commemorates the day Jesus was crucified, representing the center of Christian theology where Christ bore humanity's sins. The name reflects the profoundly good outcome—reconciliation between God and humanity through Christ's willing sacrifice. As Paul wrote, "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom 5:8).

Substitutionary atonement: the heart of the gospel

The substitutionary atonement—the righteous dying for the unrighteous "to bring you to God" (1 Pet 3:18)—is foundational to understanding Christian salvation. Christ takes upon Himself the penalty humanity deserves, offering His righteousness to all who accept His sacrifice by faith.

Biblical Foundation

Good Friday fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Isaiah 53 describes the suffering servant "pierced for our transgressions" (Isa 53:5), while Psalm 22 opens with words Jesus quoted from the cross: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Ps 22:1; Mt 27:46).

The Gospel accounts detail Good Friday from Jesus' arrest in Gethsemane to His trials, condemnation by Pilate, journey to Golgotha, and death between two criminals. Christ's resurrection validates His claims and demonstrates victory over death. Paul emphasizes that "if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith" (1 Cor 15:14).

Contemporary Application

While Good Friday is traditionally observed with special services, the New Testament emphasizes regularly remembering Christ's death through the Lord's Supper. Jesus instructed, "Do this in remembrance of me" (1 Cor 11:24-26), and Paul states that communion proclaims "the Lord's death until He comes" (1 Cor 11:26).

Our ongoing remembrance

Christ's death and resurrection represent the paramount events of Christian faith, fulfilling God's promises and breaking the power of sin and death. For contemporary believers, Good Friday offers opportunity for reflection on the cost of salvation and the magnitude of God's love.

Reflection and Application:

Consider the depth of Christ's love demonstrated through His suffering and death
Reflect on the personal significance of substitutionary atonement in your life
Examine how Good Friday influences your understanding of God's character
Explore practical ways to remember Christ's sacrifice regularly