Jesus Atones (A True Story About Jesus)

In Luke chapter 23 of the Bible, Jesus is brought before Pilate, the Roman governor. The religious leaders accuse Jesus of stirring up the people and claiming to be the Messiah, the king. Pilate questions Jesus but finds no guilt in him. However, when Pilate learns that Jesus is from Galilee, he sends him to Herod, who happens to be in Jerusalem at that time. Herod is excited to see Jesus and hopes to witness a miracle, but Jesus remains silent and refuses to entertain him. Herod and his soldiers mock Jesus, dress him in a splendid robe, and send him back to Pilate. Pilate tries to release Jesus, as he still finds no basis for charges against him, but the crowd insists on Barabbas, a notorious criminal, being released instead. Pilate reluctantly gives in to the crowd's demand and sentences Jesus to crucifixion. As Jesus carries his cross, Simon of Cyrene is compelled to help him. Jesus is then crucified alongside two criminals. Despite the insults and mockery, Jesus shows forgiveness and promises one of the criminals that he will be with him in paradise. Darkness falls over the land, and Jesus breathes his last breath, declaring, "Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit." The centurion witnesses the events and praises God, recognizing Jesus as innocent. Jesus' body is taken down and buried in a tomb, with women who followed him mourning his death.