Death Cannot Keep Jesus.

CHAPTER 10  (The Great Controversy)


The Resurrection of Christ


The disciples rested on the Sabbath, sorrowing for the death of their Lord, while Jesus, the King of glory, rested in the sepulchre.  The night had worn slowly away, and while it was yet dark, the angels hovering over the sepulchre knew that the time of the release of God’s dear Son, their loved commander had nearly come.  And as they were waiting with the deepest emotion the hour of his triumph, a strong and mighty angel came flying swiftly from heaven.  His face was like the lightning, and his garments white as snow.  His light dispersed the darkness from his track, and caused the evil angels who had triumphantly claimed the body of Jesus, to flee in terror from his brightness and glory.  One of the angelic host who had witnessed the scene of Jesus’ humiliation, and was watching his sacred resting place, joined the angel from heaven, and together they came down to the sepulchre.  The earth shook and trembled as they approached, and there was a mighty earthquake.  The strong and mighty angel laid hold of the stone and quickly rolled it away from the door of the sepulchre, and sat upon it.


Terrible fear seized the guard.  Where was now their power to keep the body of Jesus?  They did not think of their duty, or of the disciples stealing him away.  They were amazed and affrighted, as the exceeding bright light of the angels shone all around brighter than the sun.  The Roman guard saw the angels, and fell as dead men to the ground.  One angel rolled back the stone in triumph, and with a clear and mighty voice, cried out, Thou Son of God!  Thy Father calls thee!  Come forth!  Death could hold dominion over him no longer.  Jesus arose from the dead.  The other angel entered the sepulchre, and as Jesus arose in triumph, he unbound the napkin which was about his head, and Jesus walked forth a victorious conqueror.  In solemn awe the angelic host gazed upon the scene.  And as Jesus walked forth from the sepulchre in majesty, those shining angels prostrated themselves to the ground and worshiped him; then hailed him with songs of victory and triumph, that death could hold its divine captive no longer.  Satan did not now triumph.  His angels had fled before the bright, penetrating light of the heavenly angels.  They bitterly complained to their king, that their prey had been taken violently from them, and that he whom they so much hated had risen from the dead.


Satan and his angels had enjoyed a little moment of triumph that their power over fallen man had caused the Lord of life, to be laid in the grave; but short was their hellish triumph.  For as Jesus walked forth from his prison house a majestic conqueror, Satan knew that after a season he must die, and his kingdom pass unto him whose right it was.  He lamented and raged that notwithstanding all his efforts and power, Jesus had not been overcome, but had laid open a way of salvation for man, and whosoever would, might walk in it and be saved.


For a little, Satan seemed sad and showed distress.  He held a council with his angels to consider what they should engage in next to work against the government of God.  Said Satan, You must hasten to the chief priests and elders.  We succeeded in deceiving them and blinding their eyes, and hardening their hearts against Jesus.  We made them believe he was an impostor.  That Roman guard will carry the hateful news that Christ is risen.  We led the priests and elders on to hate Jesus, and to murder him.  Now hold it before them in a bright light, that as they were his murderers, if it becomes known that Jesus is risen, they will be stoned to death by the people, in that they killed an innocent man.


I saw the Roman guard, as the angelic host passed back to heaven, and the light and glory passed away, raise themselves to see if it were safe for them to look around.  They were filled with amazement as they saw that the great stone was rolled from the door of the sepulchre, and Jesus was risen.  They hastened to the chief priests and elders with the wonderful story of what they had seen; and as those murderers heard the marvelous report, paleness sat upon every face.  Horror seized them at what they had done.  They then realized that if the report was correct, they were lost.  For a little they were stupefied, and looked one to the other in silence, not knowing what to do or say.  They were placed where they could not believe unless it be to their own condemnation.  They went aside by themselves to consult what should be done.  They decided that if it should be spread abroad that Jesus had risen, and the report of such amazing glory, which caused the guard to fall like dead men, should come to the people, they would surely be enraged, and would slay them.  They decided to hire the soldiers to keep the matter secret.  They offered them much money, saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night and stole him away while we slept.  And when the guard inquired what should be done with them for sleeping at their post, the priests and elders said that they would persuade the governor and save them.  For the sake of money the Roman guard sold their honor, and agreed to follow the counsel of the priests and elders.


When Jesus as he hung upon the cross, cried out, It is finished, the rocks rent, the earth shook, and some of the graves were shaken open; for when Jesus arose from the dead, and conquered death and the grave; when he walked forth from his prison house a triumphant conqueror; while the earth was reeling and shaking, and the excellent glory of heaven clustered around the sacred spot, obedient to his call, many of the righteous dead came forth as witnesses that he had risen.  Those favored, resurrected saints came forth glorified.  They were a few chosen and holy ones who had lived in every age from creation, even down to the days of Christ.  And while the chief priests and Pharisees were seeking to cover up the resurrection of Christ, God chose to bring up a company from their graves to testify that Jesus had risen, and to declare his glory.


Those who were resurrected were of different stature and form. I was informed that the inhabitants of earth had been degenerating, losing their strength and comeliness.  Satan has the power of disease and death, and in every age the curse has been more visible, and the power of Satan more plainly seen.  Some of those raised were more noble in appearance and form than others. I was informed that those who lived in the days of Noah and Abraham were more like the angels in form, in comeliness and strength.  But every generation has been growing weaker, and more subject to disease, and their lives of shorter duration.  Satan has been learning how to annoy men, and to enfeeble the race.


Those holy ones who came forth after the resurrection of Jesus appeared unto many, telling them that the sacrifice for man was completed, that Jesus, whom the Jews crucified, had risen from the dead, and added, We be risen with him.  They bore testimony that it was by his mighty power that they had been called forth from their graves.  Notwithstanding the lying reports circulated, the matter could not be concealed by Satan, his angels, or the chief priests; for this holy company, brought forth from their graves, spread the wonderful, joyful news; also Jesus showed himself unto his sorrowing, heart-broken disciples, dispelling their fears, and causing them gladness and joy.


As the news spread from city to city, and from town to town, the Jews in their turn were afraid for their lives, and concealed the hate they cherished towards the disciples.  Their only hope was to spread their lying report.  And those who wished this lie to be true, believed it.  Pilate trembled.  He believed the strong testimony given, that Jesus was risen from the dead, and that many others he had brought up with him, and his peace left him forever.  For the sake of worldly honor; for fear of losing his authority, and his life, he delivered Jesus to die.  He was now fully convinced that it was not merely a common, innocent man of whose blood he was guilty but the blood of the Son of God.  Miserable was the life of Pilate; miserable to its close.  Despair and anguish crushed every hopeful, joyful feeling.  He refused to be comforted, and died a most miserable death. Herod’s heart grew still harder, and when he heard that Jesus had arisen, he was not much troubled.  He took the life of James; and when he saw that this pleased the Jews, he took Peter also, intending to put him to death.  But God had a work for Peter to do, and sent his angel and delivered him.  Herod was visited with judgment.  God smote him in the sight of a great multitude as he was exalting himself before them, and he died a horrible death.


Early in the morning before it was yet light, the holy women came to the sepulchre, bringing sweet spices to anoint the body of Jesus, when lo! they found the heavy stone rolled away from the door of the sepulchre, and the body of Jesus was not there.  Their hearts sunk within them, and they feared that their enemies had taken away the body.  And, behold, two angels in white apparel stood by them; their faces were bright and shining.  They understood the errand of the holy women, and immediately told them that they were seeking Jesus, but he was not there, he had risen, and they could behold the place where he lay.  They bid them go tell his disciples that he would go before them into Galilee.  But the women were frightened and astonished.  They hastily ran to the disciples who were mourning, and could not be comforted because their Lord had been crucified; they hurriedly told them the things which they had seen and heard.  The disciples could not believe that he had risen, but, with the women who had brought the report, ran hastily to the sepulchre, and found that truly Jesus was not there.  There were his linen clothes, but they could not believe the good news that Jesus had risen from the dead.  They returned home marveling at the things they had seen, also at the report brought them by the women.  But Mary chose to linger around the sepulchre, thinking of what she had seen, and distressed with the thought that she might have been deceived.  She felt that new trials awaited her.  Her grief was renewed, and she broke forth in bitter weeping.  She stooped down to look again into the sepulchre, and beheld two angels clothed in white.  Their countenances were bright and shining.  One was sitting at the head, the other at the feet, where Jesus had lain.  They spoke to her tenderly, and asked her why she wept.  She replied, They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.


And as she turned from the sepulchre, she saw Jesus standing by her; but knew him not.  Jesus spoke tenderly to Mary, and inquired the cause of her sorrow, and asked her whom she was seeking.  She supposed he was the gardener, and begged of him, if he had borne away her Lord, to tell her where he had laid him, and she would take him away.  Jesus spoke to her with his own heavenly voice, and said, Mary.  She was acquainted with the tones of that dear voice, and quickly answered, Master! and with joy and gladness was about to embrace him; but Jesus stood back, and said, 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.  Joyfully she hastened to the disciples with the good news.  Jesus quickly ascended up to his Father to hear from his lips that he accepted the sacrifice, and that he had done all things well, and to receive all power in heaven, and upon earth, from his Father.


Angels like a cloud surrounded the Son of God, and bid the everlasting gates be lifted up, that the King of glory might come in.  I saw that while Jesus was with that bright, heavenly host, and in the presence of his Father, and the excellent glory of God surrounded him, he did not forget his poor disciples upon earth; but received power from his Father, that he might return unto them, and while with them impart power unto them.  The same day he returned, and showed himself to his disciples.  He suffered them then to touch him, for he had ascended to his Father, and had received power.


But at this time Thomas was not present.  He would not humbly receive the report of the disciples; but firmly, and self-confidently affirmed that he would not believe, unless he should put his fingers in the prints of the nails, and his hand in his side where the cruel spear was thrust.  In this he showed a lack of confidence in his brethren.  And if all should require the same evidence, but few would receive Jesus, and believe in his resurrection.  But it was the will of God that the report of the disciples should go from one to the other, and many receive it from the lips of those who had seen and heard.  God was not well pleased with such unbelief.  And when Jesus met with his disciples again, Thomas was with them.  The moment he beheld Jesus he believed.  But he had declared that he would not be satisfied without the evidence of feeling added to sight, and Jesus gave him the evidence he had desired.  Thomas cried out, my Lord and my God.  But Jesus reproved Thomas for his unbelief.  He said to him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they that have not seen and yet have believed.


So, I saw, that those who had no experience in the first and second angels’ messages1 must receive them from those who had an experience, and followed down through the messages.  As Jesus was crucified, so I saw that these messages have been crucified.  And as the disciples declared that there was salvation in no other name under heaven, given among men; so, also, should the servants of God faithfully and fearlessly declare that those who embrace but a part of the truths connected with the third message2 must gladly embrace the first, second and third messages as God has given them, or have no part nor lot in the matter.


I was shown that while the holy women were carrying the report that Jesus had risen, the Roman guard were circulating the lie that had been put in their mouths by the chief priests and elders, that the disciples came by night, while they slept, and stole the body of Jesus.  Satan had put this lie into the hearts and mouths of the chief priests, and the people stood ready to receive their word.  But God had made this matter sure, and placed this important event, upon which hangs salvation, beyond all doubt, and where it was impossible for priests and elders to cover it up.  Witnesses were raised from the dead to testify to Christ’s resurrection.


Jesus remained with his disciples forty days, causing them joy and gladness of heart, and opening to them more fully the realities of the kingdom of God.  He commissioned them to bear testimony to the things which they had seen and heard, concerning his sufferings, death and resurrection; that he had made a sacrifice for sin, that all who would, might come unto him and find life.  He with faithful tenderness told them that they would be persecuted and distressed; but they would find relief in referring to their experience, and remembering the words he had spoken to them.  He told them that he had overcome the temptations of the Devil, and maintained the victory through trials and suffering, that Satan could have no more power over him, but would more directly bring his temptations and power to bear upon them, and upon all who should believe in his name.  He told them that they could overcome, as he had overcome.  Jesus endowed his disciples with power to do miracles, and he told them that although wicked men should have power over their bodies, he would at certain times send his angels and deliver them; that their lives could not be taken from them until their mission should be accomplished.  And when their testimony should be finished, their lives might be required to seal the testimonies which they had borne.  His anxious followers gladly listened to his teachings.  They eagerly feasted upon every word which fell from his holy lips.  Then they certainly knew that he was the Saviour of the world.  Every word sunk with deep weight into their hearts, and they sorrowed that they must be parted from their blessed, heavenly teacher; that after a little they should no more hear comforting, gracious words from his lips.  But again their hearts were warmed with love and exceeding joy, as Jesus told them that he would go and prepare mansions for them, and come again and receive them, that they might ever be with him.  He told them that he would send them the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to guide, bless and lead them into all truth; and he lifted up his hands and blessed them.


1. See Revelation 14:6-8.  Explained in chapters 23 and 24 of this book.
2. See Revelation 14:9-12.  Explained in chapter 28 of this book.
See Matthew 27:52-53, chap.28; Mark 16:1-18; Luke 24:1-50; John chap.20; Acts chap.12


Rev 14:6  And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 
Rev 14:7  Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. 
Rev 14:8  And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. 


Rev 14:9  And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 
Rev 14:10  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 
Rev 14:11  And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 
Rev 14:12  Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 


Mat 27:52  And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, 
Mat 27:53  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. 


Mat 28:1  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. 
Mat 28:2  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. 
Mat 28:3  His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 
Mat 28:4  And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. 
Mat 28:5  And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 
Mat 28:6  He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. 
Mat 28:7  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. 
Mat 28:8  And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. 
Mat 28:9  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. 
Mat 28:10  Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. 


Mat 28:11  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. 
Mat 28:12  And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers, 
Mat 28:13  Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept. 
Mat 28:14  And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you. 
Mat 28:15  So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day. 


Mat 28:16  Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 
Mat 28:17  And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 
Mat 28:18  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 
Mat 28:19  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 
Mat 28:20  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. 


Mar 16:1  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. 
Mar 16:2  And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. 
Mar 16:3  And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? 
Mar 16:4  And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. 
Mar 16:5  And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. 
Mar 16:6  And he saith unto them, 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. 
Mar 16:7  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. 
Mar 16:8  And they 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. 


Mar 16:9  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. 
Mar 16:10  And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept. 
Mar 16:11  And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not. 


Mar 16:12  After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country. 
Mar 16:13  And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them. 


Mar 16:14  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. 
Mar 16:15  And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 
Mar 16:16  He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 
Mar 16:17  And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 
Mar 16:18  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. 




Luk 24:1  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. 
Luk 24:2  And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 
Luk 24:3  And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 
Luk 24:4  And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: 
Luk 24:5  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? 
Luk 24:6  He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, 
Luk 24:7  Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. 
Luk 24:8  And they remembered his words, 
Luk 24:9  And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. 
Luk 24:10  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. 
Luk 24:11  And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. 
Luk 24:12  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. 


Luk 24:13  And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 
Luk 24:14  And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 
Luk 24:15  And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 
Luk 24:16  But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. 
Luk 24:17  And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? 
Luk 24:18  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 there in these days? 
Luk 24:19  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: 
Luk 24:20  And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 
Luk 24:21  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. 
Luk 24:22  Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; 
Luk 24:23  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. 
Luk 24:24  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. 
Luk 24:25  Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 
Luk 24:26  Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? 
Luk 24:27  And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. 
Luk 24:28  And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. 
Luk 24:29  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. 
Luk 24:30  And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. 
Luk 24:31  And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. 
Luk 24:32  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? 
Luk 24:33  And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, 
Luk 24:34  Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. 
Luk 24:35  And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread. 


Luk 24:36  And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 
Luk 24:37  But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. 
Luk 24:38  And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? 
Luk 24:39  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. 
Luk 24:40  And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet. 
Luk 24:41  And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? 
Luk 24:42  And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. 
Luk 24:43  And he took it, and did eat before them. 
Luk 24:44  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. 
Luk 24:45  Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 
Luk 24:46  And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 
Luk 24:47  And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 
Luk 24:48  And ye are witnesses of these things. 
Luk 24:49  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. 


Luk 24:50  And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.


Joh 20:1  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. 
Joh 20:2  Then she 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. 
Joh 20:3  Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. 
Joh 20:4  So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. 
Joh 20:5  And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in. 
Joh 20:6  Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, 
Joh 20:7  And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. 
Joh 20:8  Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed. 
Joh 20:9  For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead. 
Joh 20:10  Then the disciples went away again unto their own home. 


Joh 20:11  But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, 
Joh 20:12  And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 
Joh 20:13  And they 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. 
Joh 20:14  And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. 
Joh 20:15  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. 
Joh 20:16  Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 
Joh 20:17  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. 
Joh 20:18  Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her. 


Joh 20:19  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. 
Joh 20:20  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. 
Joh 20:21  Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 
Joh 20:22  And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 
Joh 20:23  Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 


Joh 20:24  But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 
Joh 20:25  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. 
Joh 20:26  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. 
Joh 20:27  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. 
Joh 20:28  And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 
Joh 20:29  Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 


Joh 20:30  And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: 
Joh 20:31  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. 


Act 12:1  Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 
Act 12:2  And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 
Act 12:3  And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 
Act 12:4  And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. 
Act 12:5  Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 


Act 12:6  And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 
Act 12:7  And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. 
Act 12:8  And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. 
Act 12:9  And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 
Act 12:10  When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. 
Act 12:11  And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. 
Act 12:12  And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. 
Act 12:13  And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 
Act 12:14  And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. 
Act 12:15  And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. 
Act 12:16  But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. 
Act 12:17  But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place. 
Act 12:18  Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. 
Act 12:19  And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode. 


Act 12:20  And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. 
Act 12:21  And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. 
Act 12:22  And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. 
Act 12:23  And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. 
Act 12:24  But the word of God grew and multiplied. 
Act 12:25  And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark. 

The Weight of Our Sin Upon Him.

CHAPTER 9 (The Great Controversy)

The Crucifixion of Christ

The Son of God was delivered to the people to be crucified.  They led the dear Saviour away.  He was weak and feeble through pain and suffering, caused by the scourging and blows which he had received, yet they laid on him the heavy cross upon which they were soon to nail him.  But Jesus fainted beneath the burden.  Three times they laid on him the heavy cross, and three times he fainted.  They then seized one of his followers, a man who had not openly professed faith in Christ, yet believed on him.  They laid on him the cross, and he bore it to the fatal spot.  Companies of angels were marshaled in the air above the place.  A number of his disciples followed him to Calvary in sorrow, and with bitter weeping.  They called to mind Jesus’ riding triumphantly into Jerusalem, and they following him, crying, Hosanna in the highest! and strewing their garments in the way, and the beautiful palm branches.  They thought that he was then to take the kingdom and reign a temporal prince over Israel.  How changed the scene!  How blighted their prospects!  They followed Jesus; not with rejoicing; not with bounding hearts and cheerful hopes; but with hearts stricken with fear and despair they slowly, sadly followed him who had been disgraced and humbled, and who was about to die.

The mother of Jesus was there.  Her heart was pierced with anguish, such as none but a fond mother can feel.  Her stricken heart still hoped, with the disciples, that her Son would work some mighty miracle, and deliver himself from his murderers.  She could not endure the thought that he would suffer himself to be crucified.  But the preparations were made, and they laid Jesus upon the cross.  The hammer and the nails were brought.  The heart of his disciples fainted within them.  The mother of Jesus was agonized, almost beyond endurance, and as they stretched Jesus upon the cross, and were about to fasten his hands with the cruel nails to the wooden arms, the disciples bore the mother of Jesus from the scene, that she might not hear the crashing of the nails, as they were driven through the bone and muscle of his tender hands and feet.  Jesus murmured not; but groaned in agony.  His face was pale, and large drops of sweat stood upon his brow.  Satan exulted in the sufferings which the Son of God was passing through, yet feared that his kingdom was lost, and that he must die.

They raised the cross after they had nailed Jesus to it, and with great force thrust it into the place prepared for it in the ground, tearing the flesh, and causing the most intense suffering.  They made his death as shameful as possible.  With him they crucified two thieves, one on either side of Jesus.  The thieves were taken by force, and after much resistance on their part, their arms were thrust back and nailed to their crosses.  But Jesus meekly submitted.  He needed no one to force his arms back upon the cross.  While the thieves were cursing their executioners, Jesus in agony prayed for his enemies, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.  It was not merely agony of body which Jesus endured, but the sins of the whole world were upon him.

As Jesus hung upon the cross, some who passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, as though bowing to a king, and said to him, 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.  The Devil used the same words to Christ in the wilderness, If thou be the Son of God.  The chief priests and elders and scribes mockingly said, 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.  The angels who hovered over the scene of Christ’s crucifixion were moved to indignation as the rulers derided him, and said, If he be the Son of God let him deliver himself.  They wished there to come to the rescue of Jesus, and deliver him; but they were not suffered to do so.  The object of his mission was almost accomplished.  As Jesus hung upon the cross those dreadful hours of agony, he did not forget his mother.  She could not remain away from the suffering scene.  Jesus’ last lesson was one of compassion and humanity.  He looked upon his mother, whose heart was well nigh bursting with grief, and then upon his beloved disciple John.  He said to his mother, Woman, behold thy Son.  Then said he to John, Behold thy mother.  And from that hour John took her to his own house.

Jesus thirsted in his agony; but they heaped upon him additional insult, by giving him vinegar and gall to drink.  The angels had viewed the horrid scene of the crucifixion of their loved commander, until they could behold no longer; and veiled their faces from the sight.  The sun refused to look upon the dreadful scene.  Jesus cried with a loud voice, which struck terror to the hearts of his murderers, It is finished.  Then the veil of the temple was rent from the top to the bottom, the earth shook, and the rocks rent.  Great darkness was upon the face of the earth.  The last hope of the disciples seemed swept away as Jesus died.  Many of his followers witnessed the scene of his sufferings and death, and their cup of sorrow was full.

Satan did not then exult as he had done.  He had hoped that he could break up the plan of salvation; but it was laid too deep.  And now by Jesus’ death, he knew that he must finally die, and his kingdom be taken away and given to Jesus.  He held a council with his angels.  He had prevailed nothing against the Son of God, and now they must increase their efforts, and with their cunning and power turn to Jesus’ followers.  They must prevent all they could from receiving salvation purchased for them by Jesus.  By so doing Satan could still work against the government of God.  Also it would be for his own interest to keep from Jesus all he could.  For the sins of those who are redeemed by the blood of Christ, and overcome, at last will be rolled back upon the originator of sin, the Devil, and he will have to bear their sins, while those who do not accept salvation through Jesus will bear their own sins.

Jesus’ life was without worldly grandeur, or extravagant show.  His humble, self-denying life was a great contrast to the lives of the priests and elders, who loved ease and worldly honor, and the strict and holy life of Jesus was a continual reproof to them, on account of their sins.  They despised him for his humbleness, holiness and purity.  But those who despised him here, will one day see him in the grandeur of heaven, and the unsurpassed glory of his Father.  He was surrounded with enemies in the judgment hall, who were thirsting for his blood; but those hardened ones who cried out, His blood be on us and on our children, will behold him an honored King.  All the heavenly host will escort him on his way with songs of victory, majesty and might, to him that was slain, yet lives again a mighty conqueror.  Poor, weak, miserable man spit in the face of the King of glory, while a shout of brutal triumph arose from the mob at the degrading insult.  They marred that face with blows and cruelty which filled all heaven with admiration.  They will behold that face again, bright as the noonday sun, and will seek to flee from before it.  Instead of that shout of brutal triumph, in terror they will wail because of him.  Jesus will present his hands with the marks of his crucifixion.  The marks of this cruelty he will ever bear.  Every print of the nails will tell the story of man’s wonderful redemption, and the dear price that purchased it.  The very men who thrust the spear into the side of the Lord of life, will behold the print of the spear, and will lament with deep anguish the part they acted in marring his body.  His murderers were greatly annoyed by the superscription, The King of the Jews, placed upon the cross above his head.  But then they will be obliged to see him in all his glory and kingly power.  They will behold on his vesture and on his thigh, written in living characters, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.  They cried to him mockingly, as he hung upon the cross, Let Christ the King of Israel descend from the cross, that we may see and believe.  They will behold him then with kingly power and authority.  They will demand no evidence then of his being the King of Israel; but overwhelmed with a sense of his majesty and exceeding glory, they will be compelled to acknowledge, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

The shaking of the earth, the rending of the rocks, the darkness spread over the earth, and the loud, strong cry of Jesus, It is finished, as he yielded up his life, troubled his enemies, and made his murderers tremble.  The disciples wondered at these singular manifestations; but their hopes were all crushed.  They were afraid the Jews would seek to destroy them also.  Such hate manifested against the Son of God they thought would not end there.  Lonely hours the disciples spent in sorrow, weeping over their disappointment.  They expected that he would reign a temporal prince; but their hopes died with Jesus.  They doubted in their sorrow and disappointment whether Jesus had not deceived them. 

His mother was humbled, and even her faith wavered in his being the Messiah.

But notwithstanding the disciples had been disappointed in their hopes concerning Jesus, yet they loved him, and respected and honored his body, but knew not how to obtain it.  Joseph of Arimathea, an honorable counsellor, had influence, and was one of Jesus’ true disciples.  He went privately, yet boldly, to Pilate and begged his body.  He dared not go openly; for the hatred of the Jews was so great that the disciples feared that an effort would be made by them to prevent the body of Jesus having an honored resting place.  But Pilate granted his request, and as they took the body of Jesus down from the cross, their sorrows were renewed, and they mourned over their blighted hopes in deep anguish.  They wrapped Jesus in fine linen, and Joseph laid him in his own new sepulchre.  The women who had been his humble followers while he lived still kept near him after his death, and would not leave him until they saw his sacred body laid in the sepulchre, and a stone of great weight rolled at the door, lest his enemies should seek to obtain his body.  But they need not have feared; for I beheld the angelic host watching with untold interest the resting place of Jesus.  They guarded the sepulchre, earnestly waiting the command to act their part in liberating the King of glory from his prison house.

Christ’s murderers were afraid that he might yet come to life and escape them.  They begged of Pilate a watch to guard the sepulchre until the third day.  Pilate granted them armed soldiers to guard the sepulchre, sealing the stone at the door, lest his disciples should steal him away, and say that he had risen from the dead.

See Matthew 21:1-11, 27:32-66; Mark 15:21-47; Luke 23:26-56; John 19:17-42; Revelation 19:11-16

Mat 21:1  And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, 

Mat 21:2  Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. 

Mat 21:3  And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. 

Mat 21:4  All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, 

Mat 21:5  Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. 

Mat 21:6  And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, 

Mat 21:7  And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. 

Mat 21:8  And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. 

Mat 21:9  And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. 

Mat 21:10  And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? 

Mat 21:11  And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee. 

Mat 27:32  And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross. 

Mat 27:33  And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, 

Mat 27:34  They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. 

Mat 27:35  And they crucified him, 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. 

Mat 27:36  And sitting down they watched him there; 

Mat 27:37  And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 

Mat 27:38  Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left. 

Mat 27:39  And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, 

Mat 27:40  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. 

Mat 27:41  Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, 

Mat 27:42  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. 

Mat 27:43  He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God. 

Mat 27:44  The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth. 

Mat 27:45  Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. 

Mat 27:46  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? 

Mat 27:47  Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias. 

Mat 27:48  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. 

Mat 27:49  The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him. 

Mat 27:50  Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. 

Mat 27:51  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; 

Mat 27:52  And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, 

Mat 27:53  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. 

Mat 27:54  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. 

Mat 27:55  And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: 

Mat 27:56  Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children. 

Mat 27:57  When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: 

Mat 27:58  He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. 

Mat 27:59  And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 

Mat 27:60  And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. 

Mat 27:61  And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. 

Mat 27:62  Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, 

Mat 27:63  Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. 

Mat 27:64  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. 

Mat 27:65  Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can. 

Mat 27:66  So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch. 

Mar 15:21  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. 

Mar 15:22  And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. 

Mar 15:23  And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not. 

Mar 15:24  And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. 

Mar 15:25  And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. 

Mar 15:26  And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 

Mar 15:27  And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. 

Mar 15:28  And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors. 

Mar 15:29  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, 

Mar 15:30  Save thyself, and come down from the cross. 

Mar 15:31  Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save. 

Mar 15:32  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. 

Mar 15:33  And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 

Mar 15:34  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? 

Mar 15:35  And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. 

Mar 15:36  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. 

Mar 15:37  And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 

Mar 15:38  And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. 

Mar 15:39  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. 

Mar 15:40  There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome; 

Mar 15:41  (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem. 

Mar 15:42  And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath, 

Mar 15:43  Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus. 

Mar 15:44  And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead. 

Mar 15:45  And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. 

Mar 15:46  And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre. 

Mar 15:47  And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid. 

Luk 23:26  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. 

Luk 23:27  And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him. 

Luk 23:28  But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. 

Luk 23:29  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. 

Luk 23:30  Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. 

Luk 23:31  For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry? 

Luk 23:32  And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 

Luk 23:33  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. 

Luk 23:34  Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. 

Luk 23:35  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. 

Luk 23:36  And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, 

Luk 23:37  And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. 

Luk 23:38  And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 

Luk 23:39  And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. 

Luk 23:40  But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 

Luk 23:41  And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 

Luk 23:42  And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 

Luk 23:43  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee today, shalt thou be with me in paradise. 

Luk 23:44  And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 

Luk 23:45  And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. 

Luk 23:46  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. 

Luk 23:47  Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. 

Luk 23:48  And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned. 

Luk 23:49  And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. 

Luk 23:50  And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just: 

Luk 23:51  (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. 

Luk 23:52  This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. 

Luk 23:53  And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. 

Luk 23:54  And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on. 

Luk 23:55  And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. 

Luk 23:56  And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. 

Joh 19:17  And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: 

Joh 19:18  Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst. 

Joh 19:19  And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. 

Joh 19:20  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. 

Joh 19:21  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. 

Joh 19:22  Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. 

Joh 19:23  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. 

Joh 19:24  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. 

Joh 19:25  Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 

Joh 19:26  When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! 

Joh 19:27  Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. 

Joh 19:28  After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. 

Joh 19:29  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. 

Joh 19:30  When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. 

Joh 19:31  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. 

Joh 19:32  Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him. 

Joh 19:33  But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: 

Joh 19:34  But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. 

Joh 19:35  And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. 

Joh 19:36  For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. 

Joh 19:37  And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced. 

Joh 19:38  And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. 

Joh 19:39  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. 

Joh 19:40  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. 

Joh 19:41  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. 

Joh 19:42  There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand. 

Rev 19:11  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 

Rev 19:12  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 

Rev 19:13  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 

Rev 19:14  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 

Rev 19:15  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 

Rev 19:16  And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. 

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The weight of sin. Have you ever felt guilty about something? Do you recall the weight of that guilt? The spiritual weight? Because guilt doesn't have a physical weight and yet if you say to someone that you are heavy with guilt they know exactly what you mean. They understand the burden of sin and it isn't a light burden. Once a person is convicted of sin they feel its heaviness.  If you sin and feel no weight of that sin, then you are not truly convicted of that sin at all. If you sin and are forgiven for that sin, the weight is lifted off of you and placed upon another. Remember this is a spiritual weight we are talking about because it is a spiritual guilt.

We don't know something is wrong with our actions unless there is a standard of right and wrong, correct?

I can say that a person wronged another when they lied about them, but unless the person I’m talking with agrees lying is wrong, they will not comprehend any wrong doing.

Universally lying is deemed wrong. Those who make a show of being a good liar and being commended for it, are in a league of their own and not accepted by the vast majority. We often hear about what liars politicians are- and that it is part and parcel of their profession but we don’t usually hear that in a context of commendation, but rather derision.

When lying is accept in the companies of thieves and such you'll have a small pocket of those who applaud the ability to lie without detection. And those liars do not feel the weight of their lies, of their sin, there is no conviction in their hearts of wrong doing.  Again, take their actions and bring them into the light of the majority and they will be condemned, not lauded.

The weight of sin will be heavy and the reason I'm mentioning this at all is because truly when Jesus, our Lord and Savior, was dying upon the cross, He took upon Himself the weight of all confessed sin and such a weight that must have been.  Jesus took away our guilt placing it upon Himself so that He might be able to redeem us. He wanted to save us from the death we deserved, the second death, the death from which there is no returning from.

Ultimately all the sin ever committed that has been confessed will be given to the originator of sin- Satan. The heavy weight belongs to Satan, and he will bear it to his eternal, everlasting, annihilation.

The sin that Satan won't bear the weight of is the sin that is unconfessed, and unforgiven. That sin will belong to those who commit it and choose to never rid themselves of it.

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Jesus, please save us from all sin, keep us in You!