The Trail, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus:
Select Commentary
July 20, 2020
Apprentice Gabe
Potential Apprentice Gabe, of his own free will, is desirous of studying under a Master of the Occult Arts and Sciences and, until that fortuitous day arrives, will be apprenticing under Yours Truly.
A complete understanding or, at least a thorough investigation, of the trail, crucifixion, resurrection and post resurrection accounts of Jesus, as presented in the modern Bible, must begin with comparing each segment of the events in the four Gospels.
Jesus arrested in the Garden
When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered and his disciples John 18:1
and Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place, for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples. John 18:2
Jesus frequently came to this garden with his disciples.
Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. John 18:3
Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth and said unto them, ‘Whom seek ye?’ John 18:4
They answered him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ Jesus saith unto them, ‘I am he.’ and Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. John 18:5
The gospels of Matthew (26:47–50) and Mark (14:43–45) have Judas kiss Jesus to identify Jesus to the Roman soldiers. Since Jesus was in the temple on several occasions, it is curious that none of the soldiers, priests, or worshipers could identify Jesus. It seems that it is necessary for a disciple, someone who knew Jesus well, for this positive identification. This would only be true if Jesus was a twin, for the Roman authorities would not want the civil unrest, especially during Passover, for arresting the wrong person.
As soon then as he had said unto them, ‘I am he’, they went backward and fell to the ground. John 18:6
Then asked he them again, ‘Whom seek ye?’ and they said, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ John 18:7
Jesus answered, ‘I have told you that I am he. If therefore ye seek me, let these go their way’ John 18:8
that the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, ‘Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.’ John 18:9
Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it and smote the high priest's servant and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus. John 18:10
Then said Jesus unto Peter, ‘Put up thy sword into the sheath. The cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?’ John 18:11
Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus and bound him. John 18:12
Simon Peter attacks a servant and Jesus commands Peter to sheath his sword. The text does not state ‘then said Jesus unto him’, where ‘him’ would refer to Simon Peter. By the time of Simon Peter’s attack, all the disciples would be unsheathed and Jesus commanded Peter because his reactions are more extreme than his fellow disciples.
The unknown author provides the name of the high priest’s servant.
The unknown author provides the name of the high priest’s servant.
Jesus interrogated by the Jewish leaders
[And] led him away to Annas first, for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year. John 18:13
Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people. John 18:14
The author knows that daughter of Annas married Caiaphas.
And Simon Peter followed Jesus and so did another disciple, that disciple was known unto the high priest and went [3rd person singular] in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest,
John 18:15
but Peter stood at the door without... John 18:16
It is uncertain if ‘another disciple’ is identical to the ‘beloved disciple’. In this section, the fourth gospel makes a clear distinction between Simon Peter, who follows Jesus, and Peter, who remains outside.
The unknown disciple knows the high priest.
The unknown disciple knows the high priest.
Then went out that other disciple which was known unto the high priest and spake unto her that kept the door and brought in Peter. John 18:16
Peter is brought inside at the request of the disciple who knows the high priest.
Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, ‘Art not thou also one of this man's disciples?’ He saith, ‘I am not.’ John 18:17
and the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals, for it was cold and they warmed themselves and Peter stood with them and warmed himself. John 18:18
Peter denies he is a disciple.
The high priest [Caiaphas] then asked Jesus of his disciples and of his doctrine. John 18:19
Jesus answered him, ‘I spake openly to the world. I ever taught in the synagogue and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort and in secret have I said nothing. John 18:20
Why askest thou me? Ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them, behold, they know what I said.’ John 18:21
and when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, ‘Answerest thou the high priest so?’ John 18:22
Jesus answered him, ‘If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil, but if well, why smitest thou me? ’John 18:23
Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest. John 18:24
Jesus is brought to Annas [v.13] and then was sent to Caiaphas and this transfer occurs before verse 19.
And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, ‘Art not thou also one of his disciples?’ He denied it, and said, ‘I am not.’ John 18:25
Simon Peter denies being a disciple.
One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, ‘Did not I see thee in the garden with him?’ John 18:26
Peter then denied again and immediately the cock crew. John 18:27
Peter did not cut off the kinsman’s ear, Simon Peter did [John 18:10]. Peter again denies being a disciple, the initial denial was in verse seventeen.
Jesus brought to Pilate in the morning
When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death Matt. 27:1
and when they had bound him, they led him away and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. Matt. 27:2
[And] straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council and bound Jesus and carried him away and delivered him to Pilate Mark 15:1
[And] the whole multitude of them arose and led him unto Pilate Luke 23:1
Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment and it was early and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the passover. John 18:28
Jesus is brought to Pilate on the same day that the Passover is eaten. Therefore, the last supper in the fourth gospel cannot be the Passover meal [cf. X]. Nor can the remaining three last suppers described in the synoptic gospels be the Passover meal, as they all occur before Jesus is presented to Pilate.
The regret of Judas Iscariot
Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, Matt. 27:3 Saying, ‘I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood.’ and they said, ‘What is that to us? see thou to that.’ Matt. 27:4
and he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed and went and hanged himself Matt. 27:5
and the chief priests took the silver pieces and said, ‘It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.’ Matt. 27:6
and they took counsel and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. Matt. 27:7 Wherefore that field was called ‘The field of blood’ unto this day. Matt. 27:8
Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy [Jeremiah] the prophet, saying, and they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value Matt. 27:9
and gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me. Matt. 27:10
The accusation against Jesus
[And] they began to accuse him, saying, ‘We found this fellow perverting the nation and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.’ Luke 23:2
Jesus answers Pilate
[And] Jesus stood before the governor and the governor asked him, saying, ‘Art thou the King of the Jews?’ and Jesus said unto him, ‘Thou sayest.’ Matt. 27:11
[And] Pilate asked him, ‘Art thou the King of the Jews?’ and he answering said unto him, ‘Thou sayest it.’ Mark 15:2
[And] Pilate asked him, saying, ‘Art thou the King of the Jews?’ and he answered him and said, ‘Thou sayest it.’ Luke 23:3
It seems that Jesus is accused of perverting the nation, forbidding the payment of taxes, and proclaiming himself a king.
Jesus does not answer the chief priests
[And] when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. Matt. 27:12
[And] the chief priests accused him of many things, but he answered nothing Mark 15:3
Pilate questions Jesus
Then said Pilate unto him, ‘Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?’
Matt. 27:13
[And] Pilate asked him again, saying, ‘Answerest thou nothing? Behold, how many things they witness against thee.’ Mark 15:4
There are many charges against Jesus and some of them may be true, but not all incur the death penalty.
Jesus does not answer
[And] he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.
Matt. 27:14
But Jesus yet answered nothing, so that Pilate marvelled. Mark 15:5
Pilate speaks to the chief priests and people
Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, ‘I find no fault in this man.’ Luke 23:4 and they were the more fierce, saying, ‘He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.’ Luke 23:5
‘Stirring up the people’ may be understood as common definition of ‘insurrection’.
Pilate then went out unto them and said, ‘What accusation bring ye against this man?’
John 18:29
They answered and said unto him, ‘If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.’ John 18:30
The answer is evasive.
Then said Pilate unto them, ‘Take ye him and judge him according to your law.’ The Jews therefore said unto him, ‘It is not lawful for us to put any man to death.’ John 18:31
that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled which he spake signifying what death he should die.
John 18:32
The unsuspecting reader is told the Jews cannot lawfully put a man to death.
Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again and called Jesus and said unto him, ‘Art thou the King of the Jews?’ John 18:33
Jesus answered him, ‘Sayest thou this thing of thyself or did others tell it thee of me?’
John 18:34
Pilate answered, ‘Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me. What hast thou done?’ John 18:35
Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight that I should not be delivered to the Jews, but now is my kingdom not from hence.’ John 18:36
Jesus is sent to Herod
When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean Luke 23:6
and as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time Luke 23:7
and when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad, for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. Luke 23:8
Then he questioned with him in many words, but he answered him nothing Luke 23:9
and the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him Luke 23:10
and Herod with his men of war set him at nought and mocked him and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe and sent him again to Pilate Luke 23:11
and the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together, for before they were at enmity between themselves. Luke 23:12
Herod wanted to see Jesus, since Herod believed that Jesus is a necromancer controlling the spirit of John the Baptist [Matthew 14:2]
Chief priests and Pilate
[And] Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,
Luke 23:13
said unto them, ‘Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him. Luke 23:14
No, nor yet Herod, for I sent you to him and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. Luke 23:15
I will therefore chastise him and release him.’ Luke 23:16
A prisoner released at Passover
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would Matt. 27:15
Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired Mark 15:6
[For] of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast, Luke 23:17
But ye have a custom that I should release unto you one at the Passover... John 18:39
Pilate asks who should he release
Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, ‘Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas or Jesus which is called Christ?’ Matt. 27:17
For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. Matt. 27:18
Jesus is called Christ, the anointed. Although the modern reader knows Jesus is the Christ, one wonders how Pilate learned this fact.
But Pilate answered them, saying, ‘Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?’
Mark 15:9
For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy. Mark 15:10
But the chief priests moved the people that he should rather release Barabbas unto them
Mark 15:11
Will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?’ John 18:39
Then cried they all again, saying, ‘Not this man, but Barabbas.’ John 18:40
In Mark and John, Jesus is called the ‘King of the Jews’.
Barabbas
[And] they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. Matt. 27:16
[And] there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection. Mark 15:7
and the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them. Mark 15:8
[Barabbas; Luke 23:18] who for a certain sedition made in the city and for murder was cast into prison. Luke 23:19
Now Barabbas was a robber. John 18:40
In Matthew, Barabbas is vaguely described as a ‘notable prisoner’, however, Mark states that Barabbas created an insurrection and committed murder. John states that Barabbas is a robber.
When translated into English, Barabbas means ‘son of the father’, which is evasive and must be a pseudonym. Similar nominal dishonesty is also found in the fourth gospel, where ‘Thomas’ is called ‘Didymas’, or, when translated into English, ‘Twin’ called ‘Twin’, which only suggests that Thomas has an identical brother, not a fraternal brother or sister.
The Gospel of John omits that Barabbas was a seditionist and murderer.
When translated into English, Barabbas means ‘son of the father’, which is evasive and must be a pseudonym. Similar nominal dishonesty is also found in the fourth gospel, where ‘Thomas’ is called ‘Didymas’, or, when translated into English, ‘Twin’ called ‘Twin’, which only suggests that Thomas has an identical brother, not a fraternal brother or sister.
The Gospel of John omits that Barabbas was a seditionist and murderer.
Jesus scourged
Then Pilate therefore took Jesus and scourged him John 19:1
[The soldiers, v.2] said, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ and they smote him with their hands. John 19:3
The soldiers call Jesus the ‘King of the Jews’. While it is commonly interpreted that the soldiers are mocking Jesus as a king, it is possible, and more likely, that the soldiers are mocking the idea that any conquered people would be so foolish as to commit treason against the all powerful Roman Empire
When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, ‘Crucify him, crucify him.’ Pilate saith unto them, ‘Take ye him and crucify him, for I find no fault in him.’ John 19:6
The Jews answered him, ‘We have a law and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.’ John 19:7
Jesus ought to die by the law of the Jews, yet earlier, the Jews cannot put a man to death [John 18:31]. In the temple, Jesus noted that the scripture, which cannot err, states 'I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.' [Psalm 82:6]
When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid John 19:8
and went again into the judgment hall and saith unto Jesus, ‘Whence art thou?’ But Jesus gave him no answer. John 19:9
Then saith Pilate unto him, ‘Speakest thou not unto me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee and have power to release thee?’ John 19:10
Jesus answered, ‘Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above, therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.’ John 19:11
and from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, saying, ‘If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend. Whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.’ John 19:12
In verse 12 of the gospel of John, the Jews state that Jesus made himself a king. This is not correct, as Jesus was anointed by Mary [John 12:3], although the people want to make Jesus a king [John 6:15] . Of course, one becomes a king because one’s father is a king. One does not make oneself a king. The anointing of Christian kings throughout European history does not suggest that these men were not kings. They were kings and the anointing is the official recognition by the Church.
Pilate at the judgment seat
When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, ‘Have thou nothing to do with that just man, for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.’ Matt. 27:19
But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas and destroy Jesus. Matt. 27:20
[And] they cried out all at once, saying, ‘Away with this man and release unto us Barabbas,
Luke 23:18
who for a certain sedition made in the city and for murder was cast into prison. Luke 23:19
When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha. John 19:13
[And] it was the preparation of the passover and about the sixth hour and he saith unto the Jews, ‘Behold your King!’ John 19:14
But they cried out, ‘Away with him. Away with him. Crucify him.’ Pilate saith unto them, ‘Shall I crucify your King?’ The chief priest answered, ‘We have no king but Caesar.’ John 19:15
Then delivered he [Pilate] him [Jesus] therefore unto them to be crucified and they took Jesus and led him away. John 19:16
Pilates again asks which prisoner to release
The governor answered and said unto them, ‘Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you?’ They said, ‘Barabbas.’ Matt. 27:21
Pilate saith unto them, ‘What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?’ They all say unto him, ‘Let him be crucified.’ Matt. 27:22
and the governor said, ‘Why, what evil hath he done?’ But they cried out the more, saying, ‘Let him be crucified.’ Matt. 27:23
Once again in the Gospel of Matthew, Pilate calls Jesus ‘Christ’, the anointed.
[And] Pilate answered and said again unto them, ‘What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?’ Mark 15:12
and they cried out again, ‘Crucify him.’ Mark 15:13
Then Pilate said unto them, ‘Why, what evil hath he done?’ and they cried out the more exceedingly, ‘Crucify him.’ Mark 15:14
Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them, Luke 23:20
but they cried, saying, ‘Crucify him, crucify him.’ Luke 23:21
Pilate therefore said unto him, ‘Art thou a king then?’ Jesus answered, ‘Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.’ John 18:37
Pilate saith unto him, ‘What is truth?’ and when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews and saith unto them, ‘I find in him no fault at all. John 18:38
Pilate therefore went forth again and saith unto them, ‘Behold, I bring him forth to you that ye may know that I find no fault in him.’ John 19:4
A third time, Pilates asks who should he release
[And] he said unto them the third time, ‘Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him. I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.’ Luke 23:22
and they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified and the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed Luke 23:23
and Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required Luke 23:24
Pilate washes his hands
When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just person, see ye to it.’ Matt. 27:24
Then answered all the people and said, ‘His blood be on us and on our children.’ Matt. 27:25
Barabbas released
Then released he Barabbas unto them and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. Matt.27:26
[And] so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified. Mark 15:15
[And] he Pilate released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired, but he delivered Jesus to their will. Luke 23:25
Barabbas is not explicitly mentioned as being released in the fourth gospel.
Jesus mocked by the soldiers
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. Matt. 27:27
and they stripped him and put on him a scarlet robe. Matt. 27:28
and when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head and a reed in his right hand and they bowed the knee before him and mocked him, saying, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ Matt. 27:29
and they spit upon him and took the reed and smote him on the head. Matt. 27:30
and after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him and put his own raiment on him and led him away to crucify him. Matt. 27:31
[And] the soldiers led him away into the hall called Praetorium and they call together the whole band Mark 15:16
and they clothed him with purple and platted a crown of thorns and put it about his head
Mark 15:17
and began to salute him, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ Mark 15:18
and they smote him on the head with a reed and did spit upon him and bowing their knees worshipped him Mark 15:19
and when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him and put his own clothes on him and led him out to crucify him. Mark 15:20
[And] Herod with his men of war set him at nought and mocked him and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe and sent him again to Pilate. Luke 23:11
[And] the soldiers platted a crown of thorns and put it on his head and they put on him a purple robe John 19:2
Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe and Pilate saith unto them, ‘Behold the man!’ John 19:5
The purple robe is mentioned in all four Gospels, but the crown of thorns is inexplicably omitted in the Gospel of Luke.
Simon carries the Cross
[And] as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name, him they compelled to bear his cross. Matt. 27:32
[And] they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross. Mark 15:21
[And] as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. Luke 23:26
The typical reader would be satisfied to know that Jesus was so weak from the scourging that an unknown man carried the cross of Jesus to the crucifixion site. However, the authors know not only the name of the man, his national origin and the curious detail that he was entering the city, but also the names of his children. This incident is omitted in the Gospel of John.
Jesus speaks to the people
[And] there followed him a great company of people and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him, Luke 23:27
but Jesus turning unto them said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. Luke 23:28
For, behold, the days are coming in the which they shall say, ‘Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. Luke 23:29
Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us and to the hills, Cover us. Luke 23:30 For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” Luke 23:31
Golgotha
[And] when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, Matt. 27:33
[And] they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.
Mark 15:22
[And] when they were come to the place which is called Calvary... Luke 23:33
[And] he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha, John 19:17
Jesus Crucified
[And] they crucified him ... Matt. 27:35
[And] it was the third hour and they crucified him. Mark 15:25
[There] they crucified him ... Luke 23:33
Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus... John 19:23
Jesus is explicitly crucified in the Gospel of John.
Jesus is given vinegar
They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall... Matt. 27:34
[And] they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh... Mark 15:23
Jesus refuses to drink
[And] when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. Matt. 27:34
[He] received it not. Mark 15:23
Jesus’ Garments
[And] parted his garments, casting lots that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, ‘They parted my garments among them and upon my vesture did they cast lots.’
Matt. 27:35
[And] when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. Mark 15:24
Then said Jesus, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’ and they parted his raiment and cast lots. Luke 23:34
Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments and made four parts, to every soldier a part and also his coat. Now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. John 19:23
Four or five soldiers guard Jesus, as each solder receives a part.
They said therefore among themselves, ‘Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be’ that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, ‘They parted my raiment among them and for my vesture they did cast lots.’ These things therefore the soldiers did. John 19:24
The soldiers sit
[And] sitting down they watched him there. Matt. 27:36
This detail of the four or five soldiers sitting suggests they did not think a that a mob of sympathizers might try to free the condemned men.
The criminal charge
[And] set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. Matt.27:37
[And] the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. Mark 15:26
[And] a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek and Latin and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. Luke 23:38
[And] Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross and the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. John 19:19
This title then read many of the Jews, for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city and it was written in Hebrew and Greek and Latin. John 19:20
Only the fourth gospel mentions that Jesus was from Nazareth.
Chief priests complain about the wording of the criminal charge
Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, ‘Write not, ‘The King of the Jews’, but that he said, ‘I am King of the Jews.’’ John 19:21
Pilate answered, ‘What I have written I have written.’ John 19:22
The chief priests want the criminal charge to be ‘He [Jesus] said ‘I am King of the Jews”, not ‘King of the Jews’. Therefore, the Roman Empire officially recognized Jesus not as one of many possible claimants to a throne, but as the holder of the throne.
Two other criminals are crucified
Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand and another on the left. Matt. 27:38
[And] with him they crucify two thieves, the one on his right hand and the other on his left Mark 15:27
and the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, and he was numbered with the transgressors.
Mark 15:28
[And] there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. Luke 23:32
and when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him and the malefactors, one on the right hand and the other on the left. Luke 23:33
[Where] they crucified him and two other with him on either side one and Jesus in the midst. John 19:18
All four gospels agree that Jesus was crucified between the other criminals.
Jesus mocked by the onlookers
[And] they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads Matt. 27:39
and saying, ‘Thou that destroyest the temple and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.’ Matt. 27:40
Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, Matt. 27:41
‘He saved others. himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross and we will believe him.’ Matt. 27:42
He trusted in God, let him deliver him now, if he will have him, for he said, I am the Son of God.’ Matt. 27:43
The accusation of being the ‘King of Israel’ is not identical to the charge of being ‘King of the Jews’.
[And] they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads and saying, ‘Ah, thou that destroyest the temple and buildest it in three days, Mark 15:29
Save thyself and come down from the cross.’ Mark 15:30
Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, ‘He saved others, himself he cannot save. Mark 15:31
Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross that we may see and believe.’ and they that were crucified with him reviled him. Mark 15:32
Once again, Jesus is called Christ, the anointed.
[And] the people stood beholding and the rulers also with them derided him, saying, ‘He saved others, let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.’ Luke 23:35
Jesus is called Christ, ‘the chosen of God’.
Jesus mocked by the soldiers
[And] the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him and offering him vinegar Luke 23:36
and saying, ‘If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.’ Luke 23:37
Jesus mocked by the criminals
The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth. Matt. 27:44
Jesus mocked by one criminal
[And] one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, ‘If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.’ Luke 23:39
The repentant criminal
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, ‘Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? Luke 23:40
and we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds, but this man hath done nothing amiss. Luke 23:41
and he said unto Jesus, ‘Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.’ Luke 23:42
The repentant thief knows that the Kingdom is not of this world.
Jesus responds
[And] Jesus said unto him, ‘Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.’
Luke 23:43
The original meaning of paradeisos [Strong's Number G3857] is a 'garden'. The fourth gospel states that the crucifixion occurred in a garden [John 19:41].
Darkness for three hours
Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. Matt. 27:45
[And] when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. Mark 15:33
[And] it was about the sixth hour and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. Luke 23:44
and the sun was darkened and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. Luke 23:45
The Passover occurs on the full moon. Full moons are in the opposite constellation of the sun, therefore, a solar eclipse is impossible. The darkest part of an eclipse only for a few minutes, so for darkness to be over the ‘whole land’ for three hours suggests that size of the ‘whole land’ was a great distance, such as the length of the continent of Europe, from England to Russia, and not a small part of the middle east. Although the association of an eclipse with the crucifixion has a long tradition, the eclipse is a physical impossibility.
A typical icon of the crucifixion depicting the sun and the moon.
A typical icon of the crucifixion depicting the sun and the moon.
Jesus cries out
[And] about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is to say, ‘My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?’ Matt. 27:46
[And] at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?’ which is, being interpreted, ‘My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?’ Mark 15:34
Jesus is misunderstood
Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, ‘This man calleth for Elias.’ Matt.27:47
The rest said, ‘Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.’ Matt. 27:49
[And] some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, ‘Behold, he calleth Elias.’
Mark 15:35
And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, ‘Let alone. Let us see whether Elias will come to take him down.’ Mark 15:36
Jesus provides for his mother’s welfare
When Jesus therefore saw his mother and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, ‘Woman, behold thy son!’ John 19:26
Then saith he to the disciple, ‘Behold thy mother!’ and from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. John 19:27
Jesus is given vinegar
[And] straightway one of them ran and took a spunge and filled it with vinegar and put it on a reed and gave him to drink. Matt. 27:48
[And] one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar and put it on a reed and gave him to drink... Mark 15:36
And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, Luke 23:36
After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, ‘I thirst.’ John 19:28
Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar and they filled a spunge with vinegar and put it upon hyssop and put it to his mouth. John 19:29
Jesus dies
Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. Matt. 27:50
[And] Jesus cried with a loud voice and gave up the ghost. Mark 15:37
[And] when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, ‘Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit’ and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. Luke 23:46
When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, ‘It is finished’ and he bowed his head and gave up the ghost. John 19:30
The veil in the temple
[And], behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom and the earth did quake and the rocks rent Matt. 27:51
[And] the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. Mark 15:38
[And] the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. Luke 23:45
This episode is omitted in the fourth gospel.
A centurion comments
Now when the centurion and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, ‘Truly this was the Son of God.’
Matt. 27:54
[And] when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out and gave up the ghost, he said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God.’ Mark 15:39
Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, ‘Certainly this was a righteous man.’ Luke 23:47
A centurion [Strong's Number G1543] is an officer over one hundred men.
There are many witnesses
[And] all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts and returned. Luke 23:48
Jesus’ acquaintances and the women are in the distance
[And] many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him, Matt. 27:55
There were also women looking on afar off… Mark 15:40
[And] all his acquaintance and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. Luke 23:49
Jesus’ acquaintances and the women are by the cross
Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother and his mother's sister Mary the wife of Cleophas and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25
The women mentioned
[Among] which was Mary Magdalene [1] and Mary the mother of James and Joses [2] and the mother of Zebedee's children [3]. Matt. 27:56
[Among] whom was Mary Magdalene [1] and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses [2] and Salome [3], Mark 15:40
It was Mary Magdalene [1], and Joanna [2], and Mary the mother of James [3], and other women that were with them... Luke 24:10
[Jesus’] mother [1] and his mother's sister Mary the wife of Cleophas [2] and Mary Magdalene [3]. John 19:24
The criminals’ legs are broken
The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, for that sabbath day was an high day, besought Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken away. John 19:31
The Sabbath will begin in a few hours.
Then came the soldiers and brake the legs of the first and of the other which was crucified with him, John 19:32
but when they came to Jesus and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs,
John 19:33
but one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side and forthwith came there out blood and water John 19:34
and he that saw it bare record and his record is true and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. John 19:35
For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, ‘A bone of him shall not be broken.’ John 19:36
and again another scripture saith, ‘They shall look on him whom they pierced.’ John 19:37
The episode of the legs of the criminals being broken to hasten their demise is only found in the fourth gospel.
Joseph of Arimathaea
When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple Matt. 27:57
[And] now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath, Mark 15:42 Joseph of Arimathaea, and honourable counseller, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate and craved the body of Jesus. Mark 15:43
[And], behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counseller and he was a good man and a just. Luke 23:50
The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them. He was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews, who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. Luke 23:51
This man went unto Pilate and begged the body of Jesus. Luke 23:52
[And] after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews... John 19:38
Matthew and Mark agree that it was in the evening when Joseph visited Pilate. If that sunset was the beginning of the Sabbath [on Friday night], then the visit would be breaking the Sabbath, as there is a limit on the distance one can travel [cf. a Sabbath day’s journey].
The Gospel of Mark adds that it was the day before the Sabbath, so Joseph was not breaking any Sabbath commandments by visiting Pilate. Therefore, according to both Matthew and Mark, Jesus was not crucified on a Friday afternoon a few hours before the beginning of the Sabbath, but on a Thursday afternoon.
The Gospel of Mark adds that it was the day before the Sabbath, so Joseph was not breaking any Sabbath commandments by visiting Pilate. Therefore, according to both Matthew and Mark, Jesus was not crucified on a Friday afternoon a few hours before the beginning of the Sabbath, but on a Thursday afternoon.
Joseph asks for the body
He [Joseph; v.57] went to Pilate and begged the body of Jesus...Matt. 27:58
[Joseph] craved the body of Jesus. Mark 15:43
And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counseller, and he was a good man and ax just Luke 23:50
The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them. He was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews, who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. Luke 23:51
This man went unto Pilate and begged the body of Jesus. Luke 23:52
[Joseph] besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus and Pilate gave him leave. John 19:38
In Matthew, Joseph goes to Pilate after sunset. The day after the crucifixion is understood to be the Sabbath [Luke 23:54, 56].
Joseph is given the body
Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. Matt. 27:58
And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead Mark 15:44
and when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. Mark 15:45
And he [Joseph, v.50] took it [the body of Jesus, v.52] down... Luke 23:53
He [Joseph] came therefore and took the body of Jesus. John 19:38
Jesus’ body prepared for burial
And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth... Matt. 27:59
And he bought fine linen and took him down and wrapped him in the linen... Mark 15:46
[And] wrapped it in linen.. Luke 23:53
And there came also Nicodemus which at the first came to Jesus by night and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. John 19:39
Then took they the body of Jesus and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. John 19:40
Jesus’ body placed in the tomb
And laid it in his [Joseph, v.59] own new tomb which he had hewn out in the rock...
Matt. 27:60
[And] laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock... Mark 15:46
[And] laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.
Luke 23:53
Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. John 19:41
There laid they [Jospeh, v.38; and Nicodemus, v.39] Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day, for the sepulchre was nigh at hand. John 19:42
Matthew states that Jesus was placed in Joseph's tomb at night [27:57], but this could not occur during the Sabbath. In the fourth gospel, it is not the Sabbath, but the ‘preparation day’ [19:42] that Jesus is placed in the tomb. The tomb was not previously used, as it is Joseph’s tomb [Matthew 27:60].
Matthew and Mark clearly state the tomb was ‘hewn out of stone’ and Luke writes the tomb was ‘hewn out of a rock’. Yet, the European Masters of the 15th and 16th centuries were unaware of this fact, as they consistently depict rising from a horizontal grave. The consistent depiction of the resurrection suggests that the Biblical account post dates these paintings.
Matthew and Mark clearly state the tomb was ‘hewn out of stone’ and Luke writes the tomb was ‘hewn out of a rock’. Yet, the European Masters of the 15th and 16th centuries were unaware of this fact, as they consistently depict rising from a horizontal grave. The consistent depiction of the resurrection suggests that the Biblical account post dates these paintings.
The tomb sealed
[Joseph; v.59] he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre and departed. Matt. 27:60
[Joseph; v.45] rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre. Mark 15:46
Joseph was able to move the ‘great stone’ by himself.
The women know the location of the tomb
And there was Mary Magdalene and the other Mary sitting over against the sepulchre.
Matt. 27:61
And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid. Mark 15:47
And that day was the preparation and the sabbath drew on. Luke 23:54
And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after and beheld the sepulchre and how his body was laid. Luke 23:55
And they returned and prepared spices and ointments and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. Luke 23:56
According to the gospel of Luke, the next day is the Sabbath.
THE NEXT DAY
Now the next day that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, Matt.27:62
Saying, ‘Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Matt.27:63
Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night and steal him away and say unto the people, ‘He is risen from the dead’, so the last error shall be worse than the first.’ Matt.27:64
Pilate said unto them, ‘Ye have a watch. Go your way, make it as sure as ye can.’ Matt.27:65
So they went and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone and setting a watch. Matt.27:66
[Who] also, when he was in Galilee, followed him and ministered unto him and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem Mark 15:41
Matthew and Mark agree that it was in the evening when Joseph visited Pilate. If that sunset was the beginning of the Sabbath [on Friday night], then the visit would be breaking the Sabbath, as there is a limit on the distance one can travel [cf. A Sabbath day’s journey]. The Gospel of Mark adds that it was the day before the Sabbath, so Joseph was not breaking any Sabbath commandments by visiting Pilate. Therefore, according to both Matthew and Mark, Jesus was not crucified on a Friday afternoon a few hours before the beginning of the Sabbath, but on a Thursday afternoon.
And that day was the preparation and the sabbath drew on. Luke 23:54
From the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, it is seems that the ‘next day’ was not the Sabbath, but the ‘preparation day’. In Matthew, the day after the day of preparation is not the Sabbath, otherwise the chief priests could not travel to see Pilate to ask for guards. Therefore, in the account of Matthew, there is one day between the crucifixion and the Sabbath: the crucifixion day, the preparation day, and the Sabbath. It seems that according to the account found in Matthew, Jesus was crucified on a Thursday. This understanding suggests that Jesus was in the tomb for part of Thursday, all of Friday [from sunset Thursday to sunset Friday], all of the Sabbath [from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday], and rose during at dawn on Sunday morning [Matthew 28:1]. Of course, these Biblical texts are contradicted by the ancient church tradition, held by both Roman Catholics and the Orthodox Church, that Jesus was crucified on a Friday afternoon and rose sometime Saturday night.
The Women prepare spices and ointments
And they [Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and other women, 24:10] returned and prepared spices and ointments and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. Luke 23:56
It not clear why the women worked on the Sabbath preparing spices, since they Mary Magdalene and the other Mary [Mark 15:46] watched Joseph and Nicodemus prepare the body for burial [John 19:39-40].
The women who came to the Tomb
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. Matt. 28:1
Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome Mark.16:1
Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and other women Luke.24:10
Mary Magdalene John 20:1
The time the women arrive at the tomb [ordered from earliest to latest]:
The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark... John 20:1
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning... Luke 24:1
In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week... Matt. 28:1
And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. Mark16:2
The fourth gospel states that Mary Magdalene come to the tomb while it was still dark. Since the Passover occurs on the full moon, Mary Magdalene would have sufficient light to find the tomb, even during the ‘deepest’ part of the night.
Luke states the women arrive on the first day of the week in the morning.
Matthew writes that the women came at the end of the sabbath, which ends Saturday at sunset, and while it ‘began to dawn’, that is, Sunday morning. Matthew seems to understand the days in a modern sense, from sunrise to sunrise, and not in the proper understanding of sunset to sunset [‘...and the evening and the morning was the N day’,]
Mark is easily understandable, as the women came ‘very early in the morning’ ‘at the rising of the sun’, once again, Sunday morning.
Luke states the women arrive on the first day of the week in the morning.
Matthew writes that the women came at the end of the sabbath, which ends Saturday at sunset, and while it ‘began to dawn’, that is, Sunday morning. Matthew seems to understand the days in a modern sense, from sunrise to sunrise, and not in the proper understanding of sunset to sunset [‘...and the evening and the morning was the N day’,]
Mark is easily understandable, as the women came ‘very early in the morning’ ‘at the rising of the sun’, once again, Sunday morning.
An Angel moves the covering stone
In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre Matt. 28:1
and, behold, there was a great earthquake, for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it. Matt. 28:2
The women witness the angle moving the covering stone.
The covering stone was previously moved
And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome had bought sweet spices that they might come and anoint him Mark 16:1
and they said among themselves, ‘Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?’, Mark 16:3
and when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away, for it was very great.
Mark 16:4
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared and certain others with them Luke 24:1
and they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. Luke 24:2
The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. John 20:1
In the Gospel of Mark, the women question how they will remove the stone. It is reasonable to assume that since one man, Joseph of Arimathea, can seal the tomb, then three woman [Mary Magdalene, Mary, and Salome] can remove the stone.
There are at least two separate tombs described by the four authors: the first tomb has the stone in place [Matthew] and at the second tomb, the stone was previously removed [Mark, Luke, and John].
There is only one opened tomb mentioned in the Gospels, the tomb of Lazarus.
There are at least two separate tombs described by the four authors: the first tomb has the stone in place [Matthew] and at the second tomb, the stone was previously removed [Mark, Luke, and John].
There is only one opened tomb mentioned in the Gospels, the tomb of Lazarus.
The women enter the Tomb
And [‘Mary Magdalene, Mary, and Salome’; Mark 16:1] entering into the sepulchre... Mark 16:5
And they [Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women; Luke 24:10] entered in and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. Luke 24:3
The women do not enter the tomb
His [the angel; v.2] countenance was like lightning and his raiment white as snow Matt. 28:3
and for fear of him the keepers did shake and became as dead men. Matt 28:4
But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping and as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the sepulchre, Johnm20:11
The women encounter one messenger
[They] saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment and they were affrighted. Mark 16:5
[The] angel of the Lord... rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it. Matt. 28:2
The women encounter two messengers
And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments... Luke 24:4
And Mary Magdalene seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. John 20:12
A young man sits on the right side of the tomb [Matthew 16:5] and an angel sits on the covering stone [Mark 28:2]. Luke describes two men standing [24:4], while John writes that Mary Magdalene sees two messengers sitting [John 20:12].
The women are given a message
And the angel answered and said unto the women,
‘Fear not ye, for I know that ye seek Jesus which was crucified. Matt. 28:5
He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay Matt. 28:6 and go quickly and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee. There shall ye see him. Lo, I have told you.’ Matt. 28:7
And he [the ‘young man’; v.5] saith unto them [Mary Magdalene, Mary, and Salome; Mark 16:1],
‘Be not affrighted. Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth which was crucified. He is risen. He is not here. Behold the place where they laid him. Mark 16:6
But go your way. Tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee. There shall ye see him, as he said unto you.’ Mark 16:7
And as they were afraid and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them,
‘Why seek ye the living among the dead? Luke 24:5
He is not here, but is risen. Remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Luke 24:6
Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and the third day rise again.’ Luke 24:7
And they remembered his words,Luke 24:8
Peter is specifically mentioned in the Gospel of Mark [16:7]. Both Matthew and Mark explicitly state that Jesus was crucified, but this fact is omitted in the Gospel of Luke.
Mary Magdalene is questioned
And they [the ‘two angels’; v.12] say unto her, ‘Woman, why weepest thou?’ She saith unto them, ‘Because they have taken away my Lord and I know not where they have laid him.’ John 20:13
The women leave the tomb
And they [‘the women’; Matthew 28:5] departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy and did run to bring his disciples word. Matt 28:8
And they [‘Mary Magdalene, Mary, and Salome’; Mark 16:1] went out quickly and fled from the sepulchre, for they trembled and were amazed, neither said they any thing to any man, for they were afraid Mark 16:8
And returned from the sepulchre and told all these things unto the eleven and to all the rest. Luke 24:9
The ‘eleven’ are the remaining disciples, as Judas Iscariot is dead x or otherwise absent.
The women encounter Jesus
And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, ‘All hail.’, and they came and held him by the feet and worshipped him. Matt. 28:9
Then said Jesus unto them, ‘Be not afraid. Go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee and there shall they see me.’ Matt. 28:10
Mary Magdalene encounters Jesus
Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils. Mark 16:9
And when she had thus said, she turned herself back and saw Jesus standing and knew not that it was Jesus. John 20:14
Jesus saith unto her, ‘Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?’ She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, ‘Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him and I will take him away.’ John 20:15
Jesus saith unto her, ‘Mary.’ She turned herself and saith unto him, ‘Rabboni’ which is to say, Master. John 20:16
Jesus saith unto her, ‘Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father, but go to my brethren and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father and your Father and to my God and your God.’ John 20:17
The women do not encounter Jesus
And returned from the sepulchre and told all these things unto the eleven and to all the rest. Luke.24:9
The Apostles are told of Jesus’ Resurrection
It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and other women that were with them which told these things unto the apostles. Luke 24:10
The Disciples are told of Jesus’ Resurrection
And they...did run to bring his disciples word. Matt 28:8
Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord and that he had spoken these things unto her. John 20:18
Those that had been with him are told of Jesus’ Resurrection
And she [‘Mary Magdalene’; v.9] went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept. Mark 16:10
The eleven are told of Jesus’ Resurrection
And returned from the sepulchre and told all these things unto the eleven and to all the rest. Luke 24:9
The Disciples are told the body of Jesus has been taken
Then she [‘Mary Magdalene’; v.1] runneth and cometh to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved and saith unto them, ‘They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre and we know not where they have laid him.’ John 20:2
No one is told of Jesus’ Resurrection
And they [‘Mary Magdalene, Mary, and Salome’; Mark 16:1] … neither said they any thing to any man, for they were afraid Mark 16:8
They do not believe that Jesus Resurrected
And they, when they [‘that had been with him’; v.10] had heard that he [‘Jesus’; v.9] was alive and had been seen of her, believed not. Mark 16:11
And their words [the women; v.10] seemed to them [the eleven; v.9] as idle tales and they believed them not. Luke 24:11
Some of the eleven believe and some of the eleven doubt
And when they [the ‘eleven’; v.16] saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted.
Matt. 28:17
Peter, Simon Peter, and the other disciple run to the tomb
Then arose Peter and ran unto the sepulchre and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.
Luke 24:12
Peter therefore went forth and that other disciple and came to the sepulchre. John 20:3
So they ran both together and the other disciple did outrun Peter and came first to the sepulchre. John 20:4
And he [the ‘other disciple’; v.3] stooping down and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying, yet went he not in. John 20:5
Then cometh Simon Peter following him [the ‘other disciple’; v.3] and went into the sepulchre and seeth the linen clothes lie John 20:6
Simon Peter enters the tomb [John20:6], but Peter does not enter [Luke 24:12].
[Peter] stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass. Luke 24:12
And the napkin that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. John 20:7
Then went in also that other disciple which came first to the sepulchre and he saw and believed. John 20:8
For as yet they [Peter and the ‘other disciple’; 20:3] knew not the scripture that he must rise again from the dead. John 20:9
Then the disciples [Peter and the ‘other disciple’; 20:3] went away again unto their own home. John 20:10
The napkin [John 20:7] occurs in only one additional passage in the New Testament: at the rising of Lazarus.
Sunday, Daytime
After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked and went into the country. Mark 16:12
And, behold, two of them [of the ‘eleven’; v.9] went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs Luke 24:13
and they talked together of all these things which had happened. Luke 24:14
and it came to pass that while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. Luke 24:15
But their eyes were holden that they should not know him Luke.24:16
Jesus uses deception by appearing other than he is.
[And] he said unto them, ‘What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk and are sad?’ Luke 24:17
and the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, ‘Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem and hast not known the things which are come to pass therein these days?’ Luke 24:18
and he said unto them, ‘What things?’, and they said unto him, ‘Concerning Jesus of Nazareth which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people Luke 24:19
and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. Luke 24:20
But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. Luke 24:21
Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished which were early at the sepulchre Luke 24:22
and when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels which said that he was alive Luke 24:23
and certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre and found it even so as the women had said, but him they saw not.’ Luke 24:24
Then he said unto them, ‘O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Luke 24:25
Ought not Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into his glory?’, Luke 24:26
and beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself Luke 24:27
and they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went and he made as though he would have gone further, Luke 24:28
but they constrained him, saying, ‘Abide with us, for it is toward evening and the day is far spent.’, and he went in to tarry with them Luke 24:29
and it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread and blessed it and brake and gave to them Luke 24:30
and their eyes were opened and they knew him and he vanished out of their sight Luke 24:31 and they said one to another, ‘Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way and while he opened to us the scriptures?’ Luke 24:32
One of two men [v.13], of the eleven [v.9], is named ‘Cleophas’ [Luke 24:18].
Sunday
Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done. Matt. 28:11
And when they were assembled with the elders and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers, Matt. 28:12
saying, ‘Say ye, His disciples came by night and stole him away while we slept. Matt. 28:13
And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him and secure you.’ Matt. 28:14
So they took the money and did as they were taught and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day. Matt. 28:15
Jesus and the eleven
And they [the ‘two’; Mark 16:12] went and told it unto the residue, neither believed they them. Mark 16:13
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen Mark 16:14
and he said unto them, ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Mark 16:15 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned Mark 16:16
and these signs shall follow them that believe. In my name shall they cast out devils. They shall speak with new tongues. Mark 16:17
They shall take up serpents and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them. They shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.’ Mark 16:18
So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God Mark 16:19
and they went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. Mark 16:20
And they [the ‘two’, Luke 24:13] rose up the same hour and returned to Jerusalem and found the eleven gathered together and them that were with them, Luke 24:33
saying, ‘The Lord is risen indeed and hath appeared to Simon.’, Luke 24:34
and they [the two] told what things were done in the way and how he [‘Jesus’, Luke 24:15] was known of them in breaking of bread. Luke 24:35
‘They’ [v.33], the two of the eleven [v.9], find the eleven gathered together. The two inform the eleven that ‘Simon’ has seen the Lord and this is consistent with neither ‘Peter’ nor ‘Simon Peter’ having seen Jesus [Luke 24:12, John 20:6]. The first conclusion is that the two men on the road to Emmaus are named Cleophas and Simon and the second conclusion is that Simon, Simon Peter, and Peter are three distinct individuals, as judged by evens following the resurrection in the Gospels of Luke and John.
Jesus and the disciples, without Thomas
Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst and saith unto them, ‘Peace be unto you.’, John.20:19 and when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. John.20:20 Then said Jesus to them again, ‘Peace be unto you. As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. John.20:21 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and saith unto them, ‘Receive ye the Holy Ghost.John. 20:22 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.’ John.20:23
The authority to remit sins are given to the disciples and the tradition of both the Roman and Orthodox churches is that this authority has passed from the disciples to the current bishops and priests.
But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
John 20:24
The other disciples therefore said unto him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’, but he said unto them, ‘Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails and put my finger into the print of the nails and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ John 20:25
And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them and saith unto them, ‘Peace be unto you.’ Luke 24:36
But they were terrified and affrighted and supposed that they had seen a spirit Luke 24:37
and he said unto them, ‘Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?Luke 24:38
Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Handle me and see, for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.’, Luke 24:39
and when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet Luke 24:40
and while they yet believed not for joy and wondered, he said unto them, ‘Have ye here any meat?’, Luke 24:41
and they gave him a piece of a broiled fish and of an honeycomb Luke 24:42
and he took it and did eat before them Luke 24:43
and he said unto them, ‘These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses and in the prophets and in the psalms, concerning me.’ Luke 24:44
Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the scriptures Luke 24:45
and said unto them, ‘Thus it is written and thus it behoved Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day Luke 24:46
and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem Luke 24:47
and ye are witnesses of these things. Luke 24:48 and, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you, but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high’ Luke.24:49
and he led them out as far as to Bethany and he lifted up his hands and blessed them
Luke 24:50
and it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them and carried up into heaven Luke 24:51
and they worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy Luke 24:52
and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen. Luke 24:53
A WEEK LATER
And after eight days again his disciples were within and Thomas with them. Then came Jesus, the doors being shut and stood in the midst and said, ‘Peace be unto you.’ John 20:26
Then saith he to Thomas, ‘Reach hither thy finger and behold my hands and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into my side and be not faithless, but believing.’, John 20:27
and Thomas answered and said unto him, ‘My Lord and my God.’ John 20:28
Jesus saith unto him, ‘Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed. Blessed are they that have not seen and yet have believed.’, John 20:29
and many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book, John 20:30
but these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that believing ye might have life through his name. John 20:31
An unknown day
Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them Matt. 28:16
and when they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted Matt. 28:17
and Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, ‘All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Matt. 28:18
Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Matt. 28:19
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.’ Matt. 28:20
[And] the graves were opened and many bodies of the saints which slept arose Matt. 27:52
and came out of the graves after his resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared unto many. Matt. 27:53
G4686
σπεῖρα G4686 speira feminine noun
a military cohort
the tenth part of legion
about 600 men i.e. legionaries
if auxiliaries either 500 or 1000
a maniple, or the thirtieth part of a legion
any band, company, or detachment, of soldiers
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall and gathered unto him the whole band G4686 of soldiers. Matthew 27:27
And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium and they call together the whole band. G4686 Mark 15:16
Judas then, having received a band G4686 of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. John 18:3
Then the band G4686 and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him, John 18:12
a military cohort
the tenth part of legion
about 600 men i.e. legionaries
if auxiliaries either 500 or 1000
a maniple, or the thirtieth part of a legion
any band, company, or detachment, of soldiers
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall and gathered unto him the whole band G4686 of soldiers. Matthew 27:27
And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium and they call together the whole band. G4686 Mark 15:16
Judas then, having received a band G4686 of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. John 18:3
Then the band G4686 and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him, John 18:12
addendum
Apprentice Gabe has created an extensive list of the arrest, trail, crucifixion, resurrection accounts in chronological order from the canonical gospels. Since excerpts are organized into manageable sections, the Gentle Reader can compare the corresponding passages from the remaining gospels.
Although Apprentice Gabe offers no conclusion, it is clear that the four accounts do not recount one, but four versions of the last days of Jesus. One could suggest that since there are many contradictions of seemingly important points and several trivial statements, all four versions are fictional, that is, the authors wrote what they either heard second hand or imagined events as they may have transpired. Of course, imagined details and second hand accounts do no discredit the events. However, for modern Christians, the idea that the Biblical accounts are contradictory and inconsistent is modern heresy and there are apologetics for every jot and tittle to conform to the premise that the novel Bible is fundamentally infallible.
Modern Christians cannot conceive of Christianity without a Bible and this fact alone demonstrates their collective ignorance both of historical and of contemporary Christianity. While the Orthodox Churches recognize the authority of the Council of Nicaea, it is evident that the council does not provide enough details for one to determine which version of the Biblical books are to be considered either Old Testament or New Testament canon. Therefore, while upholding the supremacy of the council, it is impossible to produce one definite book from the canons that is the indisputable Bible of antiquity. The Orthodox churches do not have a Bible, however, the Gospels are kept on the altar and the epistles, but not the book of Revelation, are read to the congregation throughout the year. Therefore, Christianity does exist without a Bible and one can be a Christian without recognizing the authority of the western Bible.
Jesus is accused of perverting the nation, forbidding the payment of taxes, and proclaiming himself a king, at least of these accusations will be taken seriously by the Roman authorities.
In the gospel of Luke, Jesus is sent to Herod, if only to explain the oral tradition of the ‘gorgeous robe’.
One wonders why neither of the crucified ‘malefactors’ were not mentioned as possible candidates for release, as only Barabbas is mentioned for clemency.
Only the gospel of Luke mentions the third occurrence of Pilate asking which prisoner he should release.
The purple robe is mentioned in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John, while the gospel of Luke describes it as a “gorgeous robe’.
Only the gospel of Luke has Jesus addressing the crowd.
The gospel of Luke is the only gospel that does not offer a translation of Golgotha.
The irony of Jesus stating that the repentant thief will be in paradise today can be attributed to an unknown redactor.
Jesus is misunderstood as asking for the assistance of Elias. A list of every occurrence of Jesus being misunderstood by the people and the disciples may prove interesting.
The last words of Jesus are inconsistent [Luke 23:46, John 19:30].
It is unexpected that the tearing of the veil is omitted in the fourth gospel, as the author is privileged to to know the chief priests and to be at the trial of Jesus.
The synoptic gospels agree that the women were ‘afar off’.
The legs of the criminals are broken and since Jesus was dead, the soldier pierced his side.
The new tomb of Joseph was in a garden and it can be presumed that the garden was also the property of Joseph.
‘Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate...’ Matthew 27:62
‘When the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath...’ Mark 15:42
‘And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.’ Luke 23:54
‘There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day...’ John 19:42
All gospels agree that the day of the crucifixion was the day of preparation.
Although Apprentice Gabe offers no conclusion, it is clear that the four accounts do not recount one, but four versions of the last days of Jesus. One could suggest that since there are many contradictions of seemingly important points and several trivial statements, all four versions are fictional, that is, the authors wrote what they either heard second hand or imagined events as they may have transpired. Of course, imagined details and second hand accounts do no discredit the events. However, for modern Christians, the idea that the Biblical accounts are contradictory and inconsistent is modern heresy and there are apologetics for every jot and tittle to conform to the premise that the novel Bible is fundamentally infallible.
Modern Christians cannot conceive of Christianity without a Bible and this fact alone demonstrates their collective ignorance both of historical and of contemporary Christianity. While the Orthodox Churches recognize the authority of the Council of Nicaea, it is evident that the council does not provide enough details for one to determine which version of the Biblical books are to be considered either Old Testament or New Testament canon. Therefore, while upholding the supremacy of the council, it is impossible to produce one definite book from the canons that is the indisputable Bible of antiquity. The Orthodox churches do not have a Bible, however, the Gospels are kept on the altar and the epistles, but not the book of Revelation, are read to the congregation throughout the year. Therefore, Christianity does exist without a Bible and one can be a Christian without recognizing the authority of the western Bible.
Jesus is accused of perverting the nation, forbidding the payment of taxes, and proclaiming himself a king, at least of these accusations will be taken seriously by the Roman authorities.
In the gospel of Luke, Jesus is sent to Herod, if only to explain the oral tradition of the ‘gorgeous robe’.
One wonders why neither of the crucified ‘malefactors’ were not mentioned as possible candidates for release, as only Barabbas is mentioned for clemency.
Only the gospel of Luke mentions the third occurrence of Pilate asking which prisoner he should release.
The purple robe is mentioned in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John, while the gospel of Luke describes it as a “gorgeous robe’.
Only the gospel of Luke has Jesus addressing the crowd.
The gospel of Luke is the only gospel that does not offer a translation of Golgotha.
The irony of Jesus stating that the repentant thief will be in paradise today can be attributed to an unknown redactor.
Jesus is misunderstood as asking for the assistance of Elias. A list of every occurrence of Jesus being misunderstood by the people and the disciples may prove interesting.
The last words of Jesus are inconsistent [Luke 23:46, John 19:30].
It is unexpected that the tearing of the veil is omitted in the fourth gospel, as the author is privileged to to know the chief priests and to be at the trial of Jesus.
The synoptic gospels agree that the women were ‘afar off’.
The legs of the criminals are broken and since Jesus was dead, the soldier pierced his side.
The new tomb of Joseph was in a garden and it can be presumed that the garden was also the property of Joseph.
‘Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate...’ Matthew 27:62
‘When the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath...’ Mark 15:42
‘And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.’ Luke 23:54
‘There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day...’ John 19:42
All gospels agree that the day of the crucifixion was the day of preparation.
By the plenitude of power authorized and granted by the Ancient and Esteemed Order of Hierophants, it is duly proclaimed, declared, and exclaimed that potential Apprentice Gabe is hereby elevated to the exalted and sublime position of Apprentice and shall henceforth be recognized as Apprentice Gabe to a Master of the Occult Arts and Sciences.
All rights, privileges, and benefits associated with said position, current and future, are hereby solemnly bestowed and conferred upon Apprentice Gabe this twenty second day of July in the year of our Lord and Master two thousand twenty. So mote it be. G.D.O’Bradovich III |