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Chapter 29—The Crucifixion of Christ
Christ, the precious Son of God, was led forth and delivered
to the people to be crucified. The disciples and believers from the
region round about joined the throng that followed Jesus to Calvary.
The mother of Jesus was also there, supported by John, the beloved
disciple. Her heart was stricken with unutterable anguish; yet she,
with the disciples, hoped that the painful scene would change, and
Jesus would assert His power, and appear before His enemies as
the Son of God. Then again her mother heart would sink as she
remembered words in which He had briefly referred to the things
which were that day being enacted.
Jesus had scarcely passed the gate of Pilate’s house when the
cross which had been prepared for Barabbas was brought out and
laid upon His bruised and bleeding shoulders. Crosses were also
placed upon the companions of Barabbas, who were to suffer death
at the same time with Jesus. The Saviour had borne His burden but
a few rods when, from loss of blood and excessive weariness and
pain, He fell fainting to the ground.
When Jesus revived, the cross was again placed upon His shoul-
ders and He was forced forward. He staggered on for a few steps,
bearing His heavy load, then fell as one lifeless to the ground. He
was at first pronounced to be dead, but finally he again revived. The
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priests and rulers felt no compassion for their suffering victim; but
they saw that it was impossible for Him to carry the instrument of
torture farther. While they were considering what to do, Simon, a
Cyrenian, coming from an opposite direction, met the crowd, was
seized at the instigation of the priests, and compelled to carry the
cross of Christ. The sons of Simon were disciples of Jesus, but he
himself had never been connected with Him.
A great multitude followed the Saviour to Calvary, many mock-
ing and deriding; but some were weeping and recounting His praise.
Those whom He had healed of various infirmities, and those whom
He had raised from the dead, declared His marvelous works with
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