What did Judas do with the money after he realized he was guilty? Did his guilt lead him to Jesus or away from Jesus?

After realizing his guilt, Judas threw the money he received for betraying Jesus into the temple, acknowledging his wrongdoing. However, instead of seeking forgiveness from Jesus, his guilt led him away from Jesus. Judas was consumed by remorse but lacked genuine repentance, ultimately leading to his tragic end through suicide.

Who did the people of Israel want released to them? Who should have been released? Why?

The people of Israel wanted Barabbas, a guilty man and murderer, to be released to them instead of Jesus, who was innocent. Jesus should have been released, as he was without sin and did not deserve punishment. However, the crowd, influenced by the chief priests and religious leaders, demanded the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus.

How was Jesus treated on His way to the cross and while on the cross?

Jesus was subjected to mockery, ridicule, and physical abuse on his way to the cross. He was beaten, spat upon, and forced to carry his own cross. While on the cross, Jesus continued to endure scorn and taunts from the crowd, who challenged him to prove his identity by coming down from the cross. Despite the suffering and humiliation, Jesus remained steadfast in his mission.

When Jesus died, the temple curtain was torn in two. What did this mean?

When Jesus died, the temple curtain, which separated the holy of holies from the rest of the temple, was torn in two from top to bottom. This symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. Access to God was now available to all through Jesus’ sacrificial death, signifying the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of a new era of direct access to God through Christ.

Was Jesus powerless on the cross? Was God cruel for allowing this to happen to His Son? How do we know the answer is no for both?

Jesus was not powerless on the cross, as he willingly submitted himself to God’s plan for salvation. Despite the agony he endured, Jesus maintained control over his destiny, fulfilling the Father’s will for the redemption of humanity. While the crucifixion may appear cruel, it was the ultimate expression of God’s love and mercy. Jesus’ death on the cross was necessary to atone for humanity’s sins and reconcile them with God. The tearing of the temple curtain and the centurion’s acknowledgment of Jesus as the Son of God affirm the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the divine purpose behind it.