Journey With Jesus 365Sample

The Six Miracles of Calvary by Bishop William R. Nicholson is a concise yet powerful exploration of six significant events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 27. These miracles reveal profound truths and shed unique insight into this pivotal chapter of Scripture. As you read Matthew 27, keep these six miracles in mind:

1. The Darkness at Noon: For three hours, from noon to 3 p.m., darkness fell over the land as Jesus hung on the cross (Matthew 27:45). Nicholson interprets this as a symbolic representation of divine judgment and the spiritual weight of the world's sin being placed on Christ.

2. The Tearing of the Temple Veil: The moment Jesus died, the veil in the Temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). This event signified the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, indicating that through Jesus’ sacrifice, direct access to God was now possible.

3. The Earthquake: At the time of Jesus' death, a significant earthquake shook the region (Matthew 27:51). This was seen as a demonstration of God’s power and a reaction of the natural world to the death of the Creator, marking a turning point in history.

4. The Splitting of Rocks: The same earthquake that accompanied Jesus’ death also caused rocks to split (Matthew 27:51). Nicholson views this as a sign of God’s mighty hand and the disruptive power of redemption affecting even the inanimate world.

5. The Opening of the Graves: The earthquake also opened graves, and after Jesus’ resurrection, many saints who had died were raised to life and appeared to many in Jerusalem (Matthew 27:52-53). This miracle foreshadowed the victory over death and the promise of resurrection for believers.

6. The Conversion of the Centurion: The Roman centurion and those with him, witnessing these events, proclaimed, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27:54). This acknowledgment highlighted the powerful impact of the crucifixion and the divine nature of Christ even recognized by non-believers.

How does knowing that Jesus took on the full judgment for sin change the way you respond to His sacrifice? In what ways can you show gratitude for this act?

What does the tearing of the temple veil symbolize about your relationship with God? How do you take advantage of the direct access to God that Jesus’ death provides?

How does the earthquake demonstrate the power of God’s response to Jesus’ death? What significance does this have for understanding God’s involvement in pivotal moments of your life?

In what areas of your life have you seen God’s power breakthrough seemingly unmovable obstacles? How can you share those experiences as a testimony to others?

Which of these miracles resonates with you the most and why? How can you let this aspect of Jesus’ crucifixion strengthen your daily walk with Him?

How do these miracles deepen your understanding of the profound cost and power of Jesus’ sacrifice? How can this knowledge influence the way you live out your faith?