The Romans exercised brutal and firm grip on conquered lands. Pax Romana (Roman Peace) as promulgated by Ceasar Augustus, spanning the period before Jesus till over 150 years after he left the earth was only peaceful in name. It was absolute domination of other peoples and crucifixion was one of their effective means in achieving this.
At such a time when man can only pretend to spread peace, Jesus was born in Bethlehem under the reign of Augustus. He was an adult under the reign of Tiberius, Augustus’ successor. Yet we know from Tiberius to Caligula down to Nero and Domitian and others, peace eluded Rome and its emperors. Man can at best attempt peace, but it remains elusive.
Treaties, alliances, royal marriages and pacts have all failed in securing human peace! Global bodies and blocs have risen and fallen and for some, the peace they provided is not worth the papers on which they are signed!
However, Jesus was born at such a time. He lived and felt the brutal force of the Romans. He was subject to their extreme brutality and humiliation. Like tens of thousands of others at the time. The Romans could crucify thousands at a time, if need be. But unlike others, Jesus’ death was different. He gave Himself for mankind. He took the sentence and judgment of sin, sorrow and death so mankind can experience true peace. At least for those who believe in Him.
Consequently, we see the hand of God at work in the most gruesome of human acts. We see His providence in using human depravity of crucifixion to redeem mankind as He had promised “…unto us a Son is given, … and his name shall be called … The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end…” In Jesus we have our long-awaited peace and redemption. That is the essence of Calvary.
