April 4th, 2026
Scripture – “They did not understand that he was telling them about his Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.”
John 8:27-28 NIV
Observation – The Jewish leaders didn’t believe Jesus was who he said he was so Jesus told them when he was lifted up, or crucified, they would know he is who he claimed to be. Matthew records what happened at Jesus’ crucifixion, “From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people. When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!””
Matthew 27:45-46, 51-54 NIV
Application – Non-Biblical sources record darkness coming over the land during this time period and an earthquake occurring (see Thallus and Phlegon). The evidence for Jesus’ death and resurrection are substantial and because Jesus says, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins.”” John 8:23-24. Your eternal destiny is contingent upon how you respond to Jesus. Don’t die in your sins, accept Jesus’ death as payment for your sins and follow him. If you are unsure, look into it, you will find the evidence points to Jesus being who he claimed to be and you will find rest for your soul.
Prayer – Lord, thank you for the resurrection and for allowing us to be forgiven and to know you personally. I pray for those seeking, that they would be diligent and not give up and I pray that you draw them to yourself. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 