Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered who was present at the crucifixion and how their reactions mirror our own responses to Jesus today? This Bible study explores the various groups of people who witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus, examining their attitudes, reactions, and the parallels we might see in our modern world. Through understanding these eyewitnesses, we gain insight into our own relationship with Christ and are challenged to consider where we stand in relation to the cross—the most crucial incident in human history that continues to divide humanity based on our response to Jesus.

And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Luke 23:33

• The crucifixion is described as “the most crucial incident in the history of the world and the history of humanity”
• Seven groups of people were present at the crucifixion, each representing different attitudes toward Christ
• The cross has a “magnetic attraction” that drew even those who initially fled
• Our reaction to Jesus Christ is the true dividing line in humanity—not race, ethnicity, or religious ideology
• Understanding the eyewitnesses helps us identify where we might find ourselves in the story
• True devotion is to the person of Christ, not to religion
• The cross remains the central focus of Christian faith and the key to salvation
• Jesus bore our sins in His body on the cross, requiring our repentance and acceptance

And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Luke 23:42

As we reflect on the eyewitnesses at the crucifixion, we’re reminded that Jesus remains at the center of human history and individual destiny. The study powerfully highlights how Jesus knew what was going to happen yet willingly went to the cross—”He was as a lamb slain before the foundation of the world.” His words from the cross, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do,” reveal His heart even in His suffering. The circumstances posed by the two thieves remains relevant today: on which side of the cross do we stand? Jesus is still that “loving, caring, forgiveness and forgiving person” who has “paid the debt to set us free.” Our response to Him determines our eternal destiny. As the study concludes, “Christ is the door” through which we must enter to become part of God’s family, and “the blood of Jesus Christ will cleanse everyone who calls upon Him.”

Bible References

• Luke 23:26-49
• Matthew 21
• Mark 11:9
• John 12
• Matthew 27:33
• Matthew 27
• John 19:25
• Mark 15
• John 17