Q: Is there an actual place that looks like a skull called Golgotha where Christ was         crucified? (John 19:17)

A: The photo you see was taken by my son not far from the Damascus Gate, just outside the walls of Jerusalem.

The Bible declares, “For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp. Therefore Jesus also suffered outside the gate (Heb 13:11‑12).” For the believer, Jesus is their personal Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the whole world (John 1:29). Golgotha is where He was crucified.

John records, “They took Jesus, therefore, and He went out, bearing His own cross, to the Place of a Skull, which is called Golgotha, and there they crucified Him.” Beginning at the top of this photo, one can see what appears to be a forehead, two eyes and nose resembling a skull. There is no other similar image around the old city.

Approximately 75 yards to the left of the skull is the only tomb hewn out of a rock in the area. Why is this important? Matthew 27:59 declares, “When Joseph had taken the body, he laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock.” Is there any other religious book containing the amount of geographical, historical and archaeological accuracy like the Bible?

Many folks stop at the cross, but remember that is only half the gospel. The other half of the good news includes His resurrection from the grave. Jesus did not die only to forgive all your sins (Heb 10:12‑14). He accomplished much more than wiping our filthy slate of sinful deeds clean (Isaiah 64:6). He has risen from the dead to freely give us His eternal life. Anyone can exchange their existence of uncertainty for the assurance and security of His life‑giving power.

His arms are open wide to you today. Don’t carry any guilt around any longer. Stop dealing with something God has already dealt with. Look, I have met people who say they hate Jesus. Well, it’s no fun hating someone who won’t hate you back. I hope you will consider the One who loves you most. Please consider Jesus.

If you would like to join us for our 5th tour of the Holy Land, February 20‑March 3, 2007, simply call (623) 374‑5655 as soon as possible. We have previously taken people from four different fellowships in our area. Accommodations are Five Star and your Bible will go from black and white to living color.

Hebrews 10:12‑14                                                                  

Pastor Huck:

www.calcarybcc.com