There are no coincidences! From the moment that we opened the sermon today we saw that Simon of Cyrene was compelled by the Roman soldiers to carry the cross (or actually the cross-beam) of Jesus. This most likely had a great impact upon Simon’s life and that of his family (See Rom.16:13). Others were involved along the way, most likely including women (See Lk.23:27-31), who may have been trying to show compassion based on Proverbs 31:6-7, to condemned prisoners by offering some wine mixed with gall, perhaps as an anaesthetic. But Jesus was more concerned for them, and He refused it, most likely so that His senses wouldn’t be dulled on His way to the cross or during His time on the cross. Again Scriptures from Ps.22 and Isa.53 are fulfilled in the actions of the soldiers casting lots for Jesus’ garments, and with Jesus being crucified between two “robbers” or fellow insurrectionists, who were like Barabbas. Lots of detail is presented, but the main take away is that Jesus was “The Middle Man” (See 1 Tim.2:5; John 14:6), and He did not save Himself, even though He faced His “last temptation” (See vv.39-44, cf. Matt.4:3, 5). He stayed on the cross to guarantee the Salvation of His Elect, rather than simply making a “Provisional Atonement” that may never have been received by anyone. He always lives and makes intercession for the Believers! To watch today’s video, just click on this link!