The cross in the Roman Empire was designed to be far more than just a method of
execution; it was a potent tool of humiliation, a symbol of public shame, and a
stark declaration of utter defeat. While most criminals under Roman rule were
simply "put to the sword" or beheaded, crucifixion was reserved for the gravest
cases—those where the rulers sought to send a powerful, lasting message to
anyone who might still harbor admiration for or allegiance to the condemned.
This brutal method was used to execute leaders of bandit gangs, instigators of rebellions, and, most famously, the wisest and most compassionate man who ever lived—Jesus of Galilee.
In an act of profound mercy, God forgave all our sins, erasing the charges that stood against us in condemnation. He took these accusations and nailed them to the cross, disarming the rulers and authorities, and making a public example of them by triumphing over them through the cross. —Colossians 2:13b-15
This passage in Colossians highlights the profound irony of the cross. What was meant to be an instrument of punishment and death was transformed into the very source of forgiveness and life everlasting. The nails intended to pierce human flesh, in the hands of God, were used instead to affix the accusations against us, rendering them powerless and forever nullified.
Through this act, we are pardoned, declared perfect, because the perfect Son of God was declared guilty in our place.
If you were to pause in your Scripture reading right at this point, you would encounter one of the most important truths ever written. It demonstrates how Jesus, who upended so many aspects of the world, continued to do so even in his death. The man who taught us that the last shall be first, that the poor are blessed, and that we are on the right path when we face scorn, endured relentless shame to reveal eternal glory.
But Colossians takes it even further. In addition to securing our salvation, the Crucifixion also served as a judgment against the rulers of this world. It exposed the failures of earthly justice, revealing how it can be fundamentally flawed, needlessly cruel, and out of alignment with God’s will. The rulers and authorities of the world had their opportunity to pass judgment on Jesus, and they failed so profoundly that only the Resurrection could reverse their error.
I share this reflection after a month of political chaos, not to sow despair, but to remind you that God’s justice prevails, even when its victory is achieved through the cross.
Pastor Chris Wheatley serves as the Senior Director of Pastoral Care Services for PHS. An ordained Lutheran pastor, he has ministered in various settings, including hospice, eldercare, hospitals, HIV/AIDS care, and congregations. He and his wife, Nicole, share their home with an ever-growing number of cats and Dobermans.
"The Light for the Way" series offers staff a deeper exploration of biblical readings, encouraging us to focus on scripture. Thank you for engaging with this series as we seek wisdom through prayer and reflection within our Christian ministry.
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