The Bible gives a multi-layered answer to the question, “Who killed Jesus?” Here’s a breakdown from Scripture:
⸻
1. Human Agents Involved
Jewish Leaders:
They conspired to kill Jesus and handed Him over to Rome.
“The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.” (Matthew 27:20)
“You killed the Author of life.” (Acts 3:15)
Roman Authorities:
Pontius Pilate approved the crucifixion under pressure.
“They delivered Him to Pilate.” (Matthew 27:2)
“Pilate… handed Him over to be crucified.” (John 19:16)
⸻
2. All Humanity’s Sin
Ultimately, our sin nailed Jesus to the cross.
“He was pierced for our transgressions.” (Isaiah 53:5)
“Christ died for our sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:3)
⸻
3. God’s Sovereign Plan
It was God’s plan all along. Jesus was not a victim—He willingly laid down His life.
“This Jesus… you crucified and killed… according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God.” (Acts 2:23)
“No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” (John 10:18)
⸻
Who killed Jesus?
The Jewish leaders condemned Him
The Roman authorities crucified Him
Our sins made it necessary
God the Father planned it
Jesus willingly gave His life
1. Human Agents Involved
Jewish Leaders:
They conspired to kill Jesus and handed Him over to Rome.
“The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.” (Matthew 27:20)
“You killed the Author of life.” (Acts 3:15)
Roman Authorities:
Pontius Pilate approved the crucifixion under pressure.
“They delivered Him to Pilate.” (Matthew 27:2)
“Pilate… handed Him over to be crucified.” (John 19:16)
⸻
2. All Humanity’s Sin
Ultimately, our sin nailed Jesus to the cross.
“He was pierced for our transgressions.” (Isaiah 53:5)
“Christ died for our sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:3)
⸻
3. God’s Sovereign Plan
It was God’s plan all along. Jesus was not a victim—He willingly laid down His life.
“This Jesus… you crucified and killed… according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God.” (Acts 2:23)
“No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” (John 10:18)
⸻
Who killed Jesus?
The Jewish leaders condemned Him
The Roman authorities crucified Him
Our sins made it necessary
God the Father planned it
Jesus willingly gave His life