Final answer:
John's gospel differs in its portrayal of Jesus's path to Golgotha, emphasizing Jesus's sovereignty and control, his role as a king with a celestial kingdom, and directly highlighting Jesus's divinity as well as the fulfillment of prophecy.
Step-by-step explanation:
In John's gospel, the path of Jesus to Golgotha displays unique aspects when compared to the synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. One distinct feature is the portrayal of Jesus as more in control of events. For example, Jesus in John's account carries his cross (John 19:17), unlike the synoptic gospels where Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry it for Jesus (Matthew 27:32, Mark 15:21, Luke 23:26). Additionally, John's gospel emphasizes Jesus's divinity and his fulfillment of prophecy throughout the crucifixion narrative.
Another significant difference in John's gospel is Jesus's interactions with Pilate, which suggest a more pronounced emphasis on Jesus being a king with a kingdom not of this world (John 18:36). Moreover, Jesus's last words in John are 'It is finished' (John 19:30), which indicate the completion of his mission, contrasting with the expressions of feeling forsaken found in Matthew and Mark. John's portrayal underscores the notion of Jesus as sovereign, even in death, offering a profound theological perspective on the crucifixion and underscoring the belief in Jesus as the Christ, the anointed savior of humankind.
This path to Golgotha, as depicted by John, not only reflects on the crucifixion itself but aligns with the broader Christian belief system about Jesus's role as the New Adam, whose death and resurrection opened the gates of salvation for humanity.