The Gospel of John has put special emphasis on the story of the death of Christ. The cross is the climax of the whole story. Morris explores the significance of this for an understanding of the atonement. He notes John's view of sin, judgment, life eternal, and Christ as our substitute.

Why do we love the Lord Jesus and some people do not? Isaiah 53 helps us with this question. Many people do not consider Jesus as a Saviour, a winner, a king among kings and a great Lord over lesser lords. Believers not only understand that Jesus suffered, but also know why He suffered. We view Him as our substitute who suffered for us, obtaining salvation for us.

Looking at the meaning of crucifixion from the Old Testament perspective and the Roman world, this article shows how Jesus' crucifixion serves to show that He died as our substitute, bearing the curse of God, embracing Gentiles in addition to Jews in His death. For these reasons Christ was not stoned, but crucified.