March 3, 2024
Passage:  Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19
Speaker:  Pastor Josh Holland
Main Point:  My sin made the cross necessary and the love of God made it beautiful.

I. The Roman soldiers had a part.
            A. Crucifixion was brutal and humiliating.
            B. They were just doing their job.
            C. Even the ignorant need forgiveness.

II. Pilate had to keep the peace in Judea.
            A. Pilate believed Jesus was innocent.
            B. He tried to evade responsibility.
            C. He gave in to fear and compromised.

III. The Jews used religion for political power.
            A. Jesus was guilty of claiming to be God. (John 10:31-33)
            B. The Jewish leaders were proud of their authority.
            C. They gave in to envy.

IV. Judas betrayed Jesus.
            A. The betrayal was both predestined and voluntary.
            B. Judas was motivated by greed.

V. My sin and His love are responsible for the cross.