The Crucifixion of the Cross

The cross is a rich multi-layered event. The apostles can't talk enough about unpacking its meaning and cosmic significance. But we can't neglect its historical meaning or get the other stuff that comes along with it of atonement and forgiveness and reconciliation and new creation. And the parable is a good example. It's Jesus taking on the death of his enemies on their behalf. How? He sees himself as the king. That's the crisis of decision that he's putting before Israel. You're going to be destroyed by Rome if you don't live by the Sermon on the Mount which means to live under God's rule.