Jesus' Death & Resurrection: The Expanded Narrative

After leaving the Last Supper, Judas sought to lead the guards to Jesus but arrived too late. Fearing retaliation, he obtained armed soldiers to accompany him. As he and the soldiers approached Jesus, he identified Jesus with a kiss, leading to his arrest.

Pilate, pressured by the mob, scourged Jesus. He attempted to release Jesus, comparing him to Barabbas, but the crowd demanded crucifixion. Fearing a riot and Caesar's reprimand, he reluctantly ordered Jesus' crucifixion.

Jesus chose the full experience of a human life and natural death is a part of that life experience. Though natural events thrust a painful and humiliating death upon him, he met death with courage and chose to not use his divine power to escape the situation.

Two thieves were crucified alongside Jesus. Inspired by witnessing Jesus’ demeanor at death, one thief, previously a follower of Barabbas, recognized Jesus as the Son of God. He repented, seeing Jesus as a true hero, and found eternal life.

After Jesus' resurrection, he appeared in his glorified form to friends, family, and followers. Over forty days he made nineteen appearances to believers in a recognizable form, witnessed by nearly a thousand people.