What Happened to Jesus Christ on Good Friday? A Biblical Explanation
Good Friday is the day Christians commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. It is a day of solemn reflection on the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made, as detailed in the Gospels (Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 19), to atone for the sins of humanity and offer salvation to all who believe.
For Christians around the globe, Good Friday is one of the most solemn and significant days of the year. It marks the pivotal moment when our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, willingly endured unimaginable suffering and death on the cross. More than just a historical event, this profound day is the very heart of the Gospel message. It is a testament to God’s immense love—the ultimate sacrifice for our redemption—and affirms the truth of His mission revealed in Scripture.
Many may wonder, “What truly happened to Jesus Christ on Good Friday?” and perhaps question why such a sorrowful day is called “good.” To answer these questions, this article takes a biblical journey through the events of the Gospels. We will explore the trials, the crucifixion-it-is-finished-and-the-victory-of-christ/”>crucifixion, and the deep theological meaning of each moment. This examination reveals how the day fulfills ancient prophecy and lays the foundation for our eternal hope. We affirm these events are not myth, but the unshakeable truth on which our faith is built.
As we reflect on the somber hours of Christ’s death, we do not despair; instead, we hold an unwavering conviction in God’s sovereign plan. The cross on Good Friday paved the way for salvation, a testament to His boundless grace. As Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Join us as we explore the true meaning of this sacred day. While it was a day of ultimate sacrifice, it was also the necessary prelude to the glorious triumph of the resurrection.
What is the True Meaning of Good Friday?
The Somber Day of Ultimate Sacrifice
Good Friday is a day of profound significance in the Christian faith. It commemorates when our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, willingly offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins. This was not an act of defeat, but a deliberate demonstration of divine love and obedience to God the Father.
The events of this day are solemn, from Jesus’ unjust trials and brutal scourging to His agonizing journey to Golgotha. He was ultimately crucified on a cross, where He endured unimaginable physical and spiritual suffering. This act fulfilled the ancient prophecies about the coming Messiah.
This sacrifice was a voluntary act. As Jesus Himself declared, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father” (John 10:18).
Through this event, the depth of God’s love is fully revealed. He sent His only Son to die in our place, providing a perfect sacrifice that bridges the chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity. Therefore, Good Friday is a day for deep reflection on Jesus’ immense sacrifice and His unwavering love for us.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The true meaning of Good Friday extends far beyond a single historical event; it represents the fulfillment of God’s divine plan for redemption. This plan was detailed centuries earlier in Old Testament prophecies, foretelling every step Jesus took on His path to the cross.
Consider just a few of the prophecies fulfilled on Good Friday:
- His betrayal for thirty pieces of silver: Prophesied in Zechariah 11:12-13, this was fulfilled when Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for that exact amount (Matthew 27:3-10).
- His unjust suffering and silence: As foretold in Isaiah 53:7, Jesus remained silent before His accusers, like a lamb led to the slaughter (Matthew 27:12-14).
- His hands and feet pierced: Psalm 22:16 prophesied, “they have pierced my hands and my feet,” a detail fulfilled when Jesus was nailed to the cross.
- His garments divided: Just as Psalm 22:18 described, Roman soldiers cast lots for His clothing at the foot of the cross (John 19:23-24).
- His thirst and receiving vinegar: In fulfillment of Psalm 69:21, Jesus was offered sour wine to drink while on the cross (John 19:28-29).
- No bones broken: As with the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:46) and as prophesied in Psalm 34:20, soldiers did not break Jesus’ legs (John 19:33-37).
These examples are only a sample of the many prophecies fulfilled on Good Friday. Their precision demonstrates the divine inspiration of the Bible and affirms that Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah. Ultimately, Good Friday reveals God’s sovereign plan and proves that His Word is true. It confirms that Jesus is the Son of God, sent to accomplish our salvation.
What did Jesus do on Good Friday?
The Trials Before Pilate and Herod (Luke 23:1-25)
On Good Friday, Jesus Christ endured a series of unjust trials that revealed His profound humility and divine purpose. Driven by envy, the religious leaders brought Jesus before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate.
After questioning Him, Pilate found no fault in Jesus and tried to release Him (Luke 23:4). However, the crowd, incited by the chief priests, vehemently demanded Jesus’ crucifixion.
In an attempt to avoid responsibility, Pilate then sent Jesus to Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee. Although Herod hoped to witness a miracle, Jesus remained silent before him (Luke 23:8-9).
Herod and his soldiers mocked Jesus, dressing Him in a splendid robe before sending Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:11). Pilate again sought to release Jesus, knowing He was innocent, but the pressure from the crowd was immense (Luke 23:13-25).
Ultimately, Pilate yielded to the crowd’s demands and condemned an innocent man to death. This act was a crucial step in God’s redemptive plan.
The Scourging and Mocking
Following the trials, Jesus faced brutal treatment from the Roman soldiers who severely scourged Him. This horrific punishment involved whips designed to tear flesh.
This suffering was foretold by prophets like Isaiah, who described the “Suffering Servant” and wrote, “By His wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). Jesus bore this pain for our sake.
Furthermore, the soldiers mocked our Lord. They twisted a crown of thorns for His head and draped Him in a purple robe to mimic royal attire. They then knelt before Him in false worship, shouting, “Hail, King of the Jews!” before spitting on Him and striking Him (Matthew 27:29-30).
Jesus endured every indignity with divine strength. His silence demonstrated His complete submission to God’s will, and this agony paved the way for our salvation.
The Journey to Golgotha (The Via Dolorosa)
After the scourging, Jesus began His agonizing journey, carrying His own cross through Jerusalem. This path, known as the Via Dolorosa or “Way of Suffering,” was marked by the immense weight of the wooden beam.
His body was weakened from the night of trials and the scourging, causing Him to stumble under the heavy burden. Consequently, the Roman soldiers compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, to carry the cross for Him (Luke 23:26).
As crowds watched the somber procession, many women wept for Jesus. He turned to them, however, with a poignant warning, urging them to weep not for Him but for themselves and their children (Luke 23:28). Even in excruciating pain, His focus remained on God’s plan, exemplifying His ultimate sacrifice.
The Crucifixion and His Seven Last Words
Jesus finally arrived at Golgotha, “The Place of the Skull,” where He was crucified between two criminals (Luke 23:33). Being nailed to the cross was a barbaric and agonizing method of execution, representing the ultimate act of humiliation.
Yet, on the cross, which became the symbol of God’s immense love, Jesus uttered seven profound statements. These “Seven Last Words” reveal His character and mission:
- “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) This prayer revealed His boundless compassion, even for those who crucified Him.
- “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43) He offered salvation to the penitent thief, demonstrating God’s grace.
- “Woman, behold your son! … Behold, your mother!” (John 19:26-27) Jesus showed His human care by entrusting His mother, Mary, to the apostle John’s keeping.
- “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34) This cry of agony expresses the spiritual separation He felt as He bore the weight of all humanity’s sin.
- “I thirst.” (John 19:28) This brief statement reveals His true physical suffering and fulfills prophecy.
- “It is finished.” (John 19:30) These powerful words declare that His redemptive work was complete and the full price for sin had been paid.
- “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46) With these words, Jesus willingly surrendered His life, committing His spirit back to God.
Each of these statements spoke volumes, confirming His identity as the Son of God. His death on the cross fulfilled every prophecy about the Messiah and secured our eternal hope.
Why is it called Good Friday when Jesus died?
The ‘Goodness’ of God’s Redemptive Plan
Many wonder why the day Jesus Christ suffered and died is called Good Friday, as such a tragic event seems far from “good.” The name, however, reveals God’s profound perspective, pointing to the incredible goodness of His divine plan. From eternity, God ordained this day to be the pivotal moment for our redemption.
Compelled by boundless love and a desire to restore fellowship with humanity, God sent His only Son to bear the weight of our sin. This sacrifice, though agonizing, was perfectly good because it paved the way for eternal life. The day is “good” not because of the suffering endured, but because of the unfailing love and grace that motivated it. The goodness comes from the ultimate outcome—a testament to God’s perfect love (John 3:16).
Atonement for Sin
The central truth of Good Friday is atonement, which means making payment for sin to bring about reconciliation. Because our sins created a chasm that separated us from God, we were lost and unable to bridge this gap through any human effort.
However, God provided the solution. The pure and sinless Jesus Christ offered Himself as a substitutionary sacrifice, taking our place and bearing the punishment we deserved. This profound act of love made atonement for us. As the scripture says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Through His sacrifice, our sins are forgiven, and we are made right with God. This restoration is the ultimate “good,” as His suffering secured our peace (Isaiah 53:5).
The Victory Over Death Foretold
While Good Friday may appear to be a day of defeat, with Jesus dead and laid in a tomb, this somber event was never the end of the story. Instead, it was a crucial step in God’s glorious plan. Christ’s death was a calculated triumph over the powers of darkness and a victory foretold throughout scripture.
Indeed, Jesus Himself prophesied His own death and resurrection, stating He would be “raised on the third day” (Matthew 17:23). The cross, therefore, was not the final word but the necessary precursor to the victory of Easter. Death could not hold our Savior because He willingly laid down His life only to take it up again (John 10:18). This foretold triumph proves Jesus’ divine power and affirms His mission as Lord and Savior. By conquering the grave, He secured the ultimate victory over sin and death, offering us eternal hope.
What happens at 3 o’clock on Good Friday?
The Hour of Great Darkness
On that fateful Good Friday, at approximately noon, a profound and eerie darkness descended upon the land. As recorded in Matthew’s Gospel, this unusual gloom covered the entire region for three hours, from noon until three o’clock in the afternoon (Matthew 27:45).
This was no ordinary eclipse; instead, it signified a powerful spiritual reality—a moment of divine judgment. As God’s wrath against sin was poured out upon His Son, Jesus bore the weight of humanity’s transgressions. This event fulfilled prophecies from Isaiah, who foretold such a day of darkness, and Amos, who spoke of the sun setting at noon (Isaiah 5:30; Amos 8:9).
The darkness was a visible sign of the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice. As He became sin for us, our Savior entered the deepest agony, enduring separation from God the Father (2 Corinthians 5:21). Consequently, this hour remains a somber reminder of the ultimate cost of our redemption.
Jesus Commits His Spirit (Luke 23:44-46)
At three o’clock on Good Friday, the moment of Jesus’ death, His final words echoed with profound meaning. He cried out, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). With this declaration, He voluntarily surrendered His life; it was not taken from Him.
This act fulfilled Jesus’ earlier statement: “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (John 10:18). His willing self-sacrifice affirmed His divine power and complete control over life and death. Far from a defeat, His death was a deliberate act of obedience to fulfill God’s eternal plan, providing the ultimate atonement for our sins (Romans 5:8).
Even witnesses at the cross recognized the significance of this moment. Observing how Jesus died, the Roman centurion declared, “Surely this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39). Thus, at three o’clock, the Messiah’s death paved the way for our eternal life.
The Temple Veil is Torn
Immediately following Jesus’ death, the thick veil in the temple miraculously tore in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45). This veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, an inner sanctuary that only the High Priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement to offer sacrifices for the people’s sins.
The tearing of the veil signified a monumental theological truth: Jesus’ sacrifice had opened a new and living way to God for all believers (Hebrews 10:19-20). Through Him, we now have direct access to the Father. We no longer need a human intermediary or animal sacrifices, for Jesus is our great High Priest, whose blood cleanses us from all sin.
Furthermore, the torn veil symbolized the end of the old covenant. The Mosaic Law, with its rituals and ceremonies, was fulfilled in Christ, establishing a new covenant based on grace and faith. This profound event underscores the victory of Jesus, confirming His role as our Redeemer and the bridge to our Heavenly Father.
What are you supposed to do on Good Friday?
Engage in Solemn Reflection and Prayer
Good Friday is a day to pause for deep spiritual contemplation. It is a time to remember the immense sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who willingly gave His life for our sins.
Therefore, dedicate time to quiet reflection. Ponder the boundless love of God that sent His Son to the cross, and consider the weight of your own sins. John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
You can also engage in fervent prayer. Offer prayers of confession and repentance, express profound gratitude for Jesus’ atonement, and ask for a deeper understanding of His suffering. Praying for the strength to live a life worthy of His sacrifice will help you grasp the true meaning of Good Friday.
Read the Passion Narratives in the Gospels
To truly understand Good Friday, immerse yourself in the Passion Narratives of Scripture. The Gospels provide eyewitness accounts that detail the final hours of Jesus Christ.
We encourage you to read these accounts thoughtfully. They are found in:
- Matthew 26-27: Provides a detailed account, including Judas’s betrayal.
- Mark 14-15: Emphasizes Jesus’ suffering and solitude.
- Luke 22-23: Highlights Jesus’ compassion, even for His tormentors.
- John 18-19: Focuses on Jesus’ divine authority and purpose, even in His crucifixion.
Reading these narratives will deepen your connection to the events of Good Friday. As you visualize His final hours, you will grasp the profound love demonstrated on the cross. As God’s infallible Word, the Bible is our ultimate guide. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
Attend a Tenebrae or Good Friday Service
Attending a special Good Friday service can be a deeply moving experience. Churches often hold solemn gatherings that guide worshippers through the final moments of Jesus.
One such service is Tenebrae, a Latin word meaning “shadows” or “darkness.” A Tenebrae service typically involves scripture readings that recount the Passion story. As the story unfolds, candles are extinguished one by one to symbolize the growing darkness and despair of the disciples. Eventually, a single candle remains, representing the enduring light of Christ. Historically, Tenebrae services have been observed by Christians for centuries [1].
Good Friday services unite believers in collective reflection on the cross. This communal experience strengthens faith, fosters a shared understanding of Christ’s sacrifice, and prepares our hearts for the triumph of Easter.
Practice Self-Denial or Fasting
Good Friday is also a day for spiritual discipline, and many Christians choose to practice self-denial or observe a fast. This is not about legalism but about aligning our hearts with the suffering of Jesus.
Fasting is a biblical practice that helps us focus on God and reminds us of our dependence on Him. By denying ourselves, we create space to remember the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself spoke of fasting in Matthew 6:16-18.
Forms of self-denial can vary. You might abstain from certain foods, give up social media for the day, or forgo other comforts. The goal is to redirect your attention fully toward God and His Son. This spiritual discipline deepens personal devotion and helps you appreciate the cost of our salvation.
The Unfailing Hope Beyond the Cross
Good Friday is Not the End of the Story
Good Friday marks a solemn, pivotal day in human history, reminding us of Jesus Christ’s profound suffering and ultimate sacrifice. But this day is not the end of the story. Instead, it is a foundational step in God’s perfect plan for redemption.
The cross, while a symbol of agonizing death, also represents the incredible depth of God’s love for humanity (John 3:16). It was a necessary part of Jesus’ mission. His suffering fulfilled ancient prophecies, demonstrating His divine authority and purpose (Isaiah 53:5).
The darkness of Good Friday precedes the dawn of eternal hope. The death of Jesus Christ was not a defeat but a strategic victory against sin and death, orchestrated by God. This act paved the way for the miracle to come. Christ, the Son of God, willingly laid down His life, confident in His power to take it up again (John 10:18).
Therefore, as Christians, we do not linger in sorrow alone. With an unwavering gaze, we look beyond the cross, holding onto the promise of new life. Good Friday sets the stage for the greatest triumph known to mankind.
Anticipating the Resurrection on Easter Sunday
The true glory of Jesus Christ is fully revealed on Easter Sunday, a day that transforms our understanding of Good Friday. The Resurrection is the very cornerstone of the Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:14).
The empty tomb is irrefutable proof of Christ’s victory, affirming His deity and power over death itself (Romans 6:9). For believers, Easter Sunday brings immense joy and profound hope. It assures us that our Lord and Savior conquered death, rising again just as He promised (Matthew 28:6).
The Resurrection offers a living hope to all who believe in Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3). It guarantees our future resurrection and eternal life with God. Moreover, it empowers us to live a new life, free from the dominion of sin (Romans 6:4).
With eager hearts, we await Easter Sunday to celebrate the triumphant resurrection of our King. This victory over the grave eternally affirms His identity as the Son of God, Lord, and Savior. The historical belief in Jesus’ resurrection has profoundly shaped world history and remains the central tenet of Christianity for billions worldwide [2].
Therefore, the events of Good Friday lead us directly to the glorious truth of Easter. Jesus Christ’s death was for our sins. His resurrection is our promise of life. He lives, and because He lives, we too shall live forevermore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Good Friday
Did Jesus die on Good Friday?
Yes, the Holy Scriptures confirm that Jesus Christ’s death on Good Friday was a real, physical event.
The Gospels provide vivid accounts of His final hours, describing His suffering, crucifixion, and death on the cross. For instance, Matthew 27:50 states, “And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.”
This was not a metaphorical death but a complete surrender of His human life. Indeed, this sacrifice was essential for our salvation, as His physical death paved the way for His glorious resurrection.
Furthermore, the historical crucifixion of Jesus is widely acknowledged [3]. Therefore, Good Friday marks the day our Lord willingly laid down His life for humanity.
What color to wear on Good Friday?
On Good Friday, liturgical colors guide the traditions of many Christian denominations. Black and red are the most common choices for this solemn day.
- Black: This color symbolizes mourning, sorrow, and the grief felt over Christ’s death. It also represents the darkness of sin that He took upon Himself.
- Red: This color represents the precious blood Jesus shed on the cross. Since His sacrifice is central to this day, red signifies His divine love and atonement for our sins.
While some denominations may use deep purple or no specific color, the focus remains on solemn reflection. The chosen color helps set a reverent atmosphere and reminds us of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice [4].
How is Good Friday celebrated?
Good Friday is not a day of celebration in the typical sense. Instead, it is a profoundly solemn occasion that calls believers to deep reflection and repentance.
Many Christians observe this day through spiritual practices that focus on Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, including:
- Attending Special Services: Churches often hold services focused on the Passion of Christ. These might include Tenebrae services, symbolizing the fading light, or Stations of the Cross, a meditation on Jesus’ journey to Calvary.
- Prayer and Meditation: Believers dedicate time to praying and meditating on the biblical narratives of Jesus’ crucifixion. This practice encourages a personal connection to His suffering.
- Fasting and Abstinence: As a form of self-denial, some Christians observe a fast or abstain from meat. This act symbolizes mourning and spiritual discipline.
- Reading Scripture: Reading the Gospel accounts of the Passion, such as the powerful narrative in John 19, helps believers internalize the meaning of His sacrifice.
The day is a time to remember Jesus’ immense love for us, which prepares believers’ hearts for the joy of His resurrection [5].
Why is it called Good Friday when Jesus died?
The name “Good Friday” might seem contradictory, as it commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. However, the term “good” refers to the profound goodness of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
This day marks the ultimate act of love and sacrifice, which secured salvation for all who believe. Reasons for its name include:
- Atonement for Sin: By bearing the weight of humanity’s sin, Jesus’ death atoned for our transgressions. As Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- Victory Over Death: Through His death, Jesus conquered sin and death itself. This victory was foreshadowed on Good Friday and fully revealed on Easter Sunday.
- God’s Perfect Plan: This seemingly tragic event was part of God’s divine will and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.”
Therefore, Good Friday is “good” because it led to our ultimate good. It represents the greatest demonstration of God’s mercy and grace, providing the path to eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior [6].
Sources
- https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/issues/issue-77/tenebrae-service.html
- https://www.britannica.com/event/Resurrection-of-Jesus-Christ
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Jesus-Christ
- https://www.catholic.org/faith/liturgy/liturgy.php?id=80
- https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/what-is-good-friday-how-is-it-celebrated.html
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Good-Friday.html