Fulfilled and Freed
November 30, 2025 – Barbie James
John’s Purpose
• John focuses on showing that Jesus fulfilled prophecy rather than giving every detail of the crucifixion.
• Prophecy means a God-given prediction of what is to come.
Golgotha — John 19:16b–17
• Golgotha was outside the city on a hill where crucifixions were done publicly.
• Jesus placed between criminals becomes God’s display of love for all to see.
The Sign — John 19:19–22
• Pharisees asked Pilate to change the sign; he refused.
• The sign was written in Aramaic, Latin, and Greek so everyone could read it.
• It declared: Jesus is the King of the Jews.
Casting Lots — John 19:23–24
• Soldiers divided Jesus’s clothes and cast lots.
• Fulfilled Psalm 22:18, written about one thousand years earlier.
“I Am Thirsty” — John 19:28–30
• Jesus is given wine vinegar on a hyssop branch.
Passover Connection (Exodus 12)
• The Israelites were slaves in Egypt.
• God told them to sacrifice a perfect male lamb and mark their door frames with its blood using hyssop.
• God passed over and saved them.
Meaning for Us
• Just as Israel needed freedom from physical slavery, we need freedom from slavery to sin.
• We cannot save ourselves; only Jesus can.
• Jesus is our Passover Lamb who frees us.
Prophecy Fulfilled
• Psalm 69:21: “…they gave me vinegar for my thirst.”
No Bones Broken — John 19:31–34
• Fulfills Passover regulations (Exodus 12:46; Numbers 9:12) that the lamb’s bones were not to be broken.
• Jesus fulfills this perfectly.
• They pierced His side to prove He was really dead.
It Is Finished
• Paid in full, completed, fulfilled.
• Connects to Psalm 22:31: “He has done it.”
• Jesus’ mission is complete.
• Our debt is paid.
• Relationship with God restored.
• We are freed.
Living in Freedom
Believe
• Believe Jesus is the perfect Son of God who died for your sins.
Show and Tell
• Show your freedom by how you live.
• Tell others about Jesus because you love and care for them.
Become Like Jesus
• Be kind, speak truth, serve, care, love.
• Walk with people instead of judging them.
• Become more like Jesus together.
Reflection Questions
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How does knowing God keeps His promises change the way you see Him?
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What part of today’s Scripture stood out to you the most, and why?
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Is there a promise from God you need to trust more right now?
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Where do you see God working in your life, even in small ways?
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What does Jesus’ choice to carry the cross for us show about His heart?
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What is God saying to you today?
