Examining the History and Meaning behind Good Friday
By: Denise N. Fyffe
Good Friday is an important observance in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a somber and reflective time for Christians around the world. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning behind Good Friday.
How did Good Friday Start?
The origins of Good Friday can be traced back to the early days of Christianity. The term “Good Friday” is thought to have come from the phrase “God’s Friday,” which was used in England in the 14th century. In Latin, the day is known as “Dies Sanctus Paschae,” which translates to “Holy Day of the Pasch.”
According to the Gospels, Jesus was arrested on the Thursday before Good Friday and brought before the Roman authorities. He was charged with sedition and blasphemy and sentenced to death by crucifixion. He was crucified on a hill called Golgotha, outside the city walls of Jerusalem. His death was seen as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, and his resurrection on Easter Sunday is celebrated as a triumph over death and sin.
Good Friday is a time of mourning and reflection for Christians. Many churches hold services on this day, where the story of the crucifixion is recounted and hymns and prayers are offered. It is a day of fasting and abstinence, and some Christians choose to give up certain foods or activities as a sign of penance.
In many countries, Good Friday is a public holiday, and businesses and schools may be closed. In some places, there are processions or reenactments of the events of the crucifixion. The streets of Rome, for example, are filled with pilgrims on Good Friday, as they make their way to the Colosseum to participate in the Way of the Cross, a procession that stops at 14 stations, each representing a different event in the Passion of Christ.
The meaning behind Good Friday is complex and multifaceted. For Christians, it is a reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus made for humanity, and a time to reflect on the depth of God’s love and mercy. It is also a time to contemplate the nature of sin and redemption and to seek forgiveness for one’s own failings.
In conclusion, Good Friday is a deeply meaningful and important observance for Christians around the world. It is a time to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made, to mourn his death, and to celebrate his triumph over death and sin. May this Good Friday be a time of reflection and renewal for all who observe it.
Bible Study:
One Bible verse about Good Friday is found in the Gospel of John, chapter 19, verse 30. In this verse, it is recorded that Jesus said, “It is finished,” just before he died on the cross. This statement is significant because it signifies the completion of God’s plan for salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus.
John 19:30 (NIV) reads: “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
This verse is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross, and the ultimate victory that his death and resurrection brought about. It is a reminder of the depth of God’s love for us, and the lengths that he was willing to go to redeem us from sin and death.
As we reflect on the meaning of Good Friday, may we remember this verse and the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice, and may we be renewed in our faith and commitment to follow him.
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About the writer: Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 50 fiction and non-fiction books. She started Revealing the Christian Life Ministry to help other Christians and provide support. She is also a trainer and mentors aspiring writers toward achieving their goals.
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