John 19:17-42

THE DEATH AND BURIAL

For what is peculiar to S. John’s narrative in this section see the introductory note to chap. 18. Besides this, the title on the cross, the Jews’ criticism of it, and the conduct of the four soldiers, are given with more exactness by S. John than by the Synoptists.

The section falls into four double parts, all four of which contain a marked dramatic contrast, such as S. John loves to point out (see on John 19:18; John 19:30):—

(1)

The Crucifixion and the title on the cross (17–22).

(2)

The four enemies and the four friends (23–27).

(3)

The two words, ‘I thirst,’ ‘It is finished’ (28–30).

(4)

The hostile and the friendly petitions (31–42).