Chuck Smith explores the significance of the crucifixion of Christ, emphasizing the misunderstanding of those involved and the deeper guilt of humanity in the act. He reflects on God's silence during this pivotal moment and the contrasting attitudes of the soldiers, religious leaders, and the women present at the crucifixion. Smith highlights the profound statements of Jesus, including His plea for forgiveness and declaration that 'It is finished,' which encapsulate His mission. The sermon concludes with the recognition of Christ's true identity as the Son of God, as acknowledged by the centurion, amidst the mockery and scorn from others.

THE THORN CROWNED KING (Where the thorns came from. I. VIEWING WITH ADVANTAGE OF EXPERIENCE. A. They thought they understood all that was happening. B. We know we don't. II. WHEN THEY HAD CRUCIFIED HIM. A. Who crucified Christ? 1. Peter to Jews. Jews to Peter - Seeing we have crucified the Lord of Glory. 2. The crucifixion guilt goes deeper. Ill. T HE ATTITUDE OF GOD. A. The silence of God. 1. He had spoken earlier. B. God's non-interference, yet. 1. The darkness from the 6th to 9th hour. 2. "My God, my God." 3. The veil of temple. IV. THE KING HIMSELF. A. "Father forgiven them." B. "It is finished." 1. First recorded statement of Christ. "wist ye not that I be about my Father's business." V. ATTITUDE OF HUMANITY. A. Soldiers making sport in palace. 1. They viewed Him as weak. B. Religious in presence of cross. "He saved others, Himself He cannot save." C. The women. The cross is the throne divides those on right and left. Soldiers that gambled - Centurions "Truly this was the Son of God." Pharisees. Thieves. "None of the ransomed ever knew how deep were the waters crossed nor how dark was the night that the Lord passed through Ere He found His sheep that was lost."