Matthew 27:54-60

Man, by nature, is a very curious individual. When there is a fire, throngs of people gather to see what is going to happen. When an accident occurs, people gather to find out the results. We express our curiosity in some very strange ways. This characteristic of man is revealed by those who stood by as spectators at the cross of Christ.

• There were those present for the fun
  • The thrill seekers
    • They showed up for all crucifixions
      • Through the years, they would have shown up for hangings and public executions
  • The curious
    • They heard about Jesus and wondered what he would do under these circumstances
  • The soldiers
• Those present with fear
  • Those who loved Christ
    • John
    • Mary, mother of Jesus
    • Peter is on the outskirts of the crowd
• Present with faith
  • The centurion (Matthew 27:54)
    • His commentary concerning all that was done, “Truly, this man was the Son of God.”

There are three types of people today: the curious, the fearful, and the people of faith. The curious or those who are simply onlookers rather than experiencing an authentic Christian conversion. The fearful or those who have no real assurance of victory and hope in Christian living. These two groups are on the outskirts. They may have a surface-level knowledge, but they haven’t pursued a real relationship with Christ that extends beyond curiosity and fear.

The people of faith are confident in their Christian experience of acceptance through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. They have moved beyond their human emotions and are pursuing a relationship with Jesus Christ. They have accepted, repented, and daily press forward in their growth.