ARTICLE GUIDE
At a Glance
This study examines the evidence for Jesus’ crucifixion under Pontius Pilate and the interpretive debates surrounding his execution. It connects historical inquiry with early atonement traditions, the biblical covenants, and the cross as the climax of God’s promise-plan.
How does the historical case for the crucifixion connect with its theological meaning?
This guide introduces the argument developed in the complete article and its main lines of investigation.
Key Claims
- The essay begins with the broad scholarly agreement that Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate.
- It compares political, religious, and theological explanations of the events leading to the cross.
- The study examines the ransom saying, Last Supper traditions, and early Christian confession when assessing the origins of atonement theology.
- The author reads the cross through the unfolding covenantal promises rather than as an isolated historical datum.
- Christ’s victory is connected with the defeat of rebellious powers, Gentile inclusion, and Israel’s continuing calling.
Primary Textual Anchors
- Mark 10:45; 14:24; 14:61–64; 15:26
- Deuteronomy 21:22–23; Isaiah 53
- 1 Corinthians 15:3–5; Romans 3:25; 11:17–29
Scripture Connections
Mark 10:45; 14:24; 14:61–64; 15:26; Deuteronomy 21:22–23; Isaiah 53; 1 Corinthians 15:3–5; Romans 3:25; 11:17–29
Selected Scholarship
- Dunn, J. D. G. (2003). Jesus remembered. Eerdmans.
- Hengel, M. (1981). The atonement: The origins of the doctrine in the New Testament. Fortress Press.
- Licona, M. R. (2010). The resurrection of Jesus: A new historiographical approach. IVP Academic.
Related Guides
- The Historical Bedrock of the Crucifixion
- The Logic of History and the Climax of Promise: Historiographical Method, Epistolary Bedrock, and the Historical Jesus within Canonical Theology
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