“But the LORD was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; if He would render Himself a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the good pleasure of the LORD will prosper in His hand.” (1)
• Why did God allow Jesus to be crucified and why did it please Him?
The disciples stood near heart broken by the pain they witnessed in Christ’s cruel crucifixion. His brutal death baffled them. Stunned and confused they watched what they couldn’t believe happen. They questioned, “Wasn’t Jesus to become the future King and leader of Israel?” It seemed like a senseless tragedy for the King of Kings to suffered and died.
• Why did He have to die?
Jesus took on the wrath of God for our redemption! He kept His focus strong and steady looking beyond the immediate suffering. He was destined for glory. His eyes were fixed on God the Father who’s predetermined a plan for salvation. Christ’s mission; “supremacy” to rule in the hearts of man. If Jesus’ followers had only understood His true mission on earth was to save people…not to rise into power to take kingship. Jesus’ supremacy was far greater. A glorious crown of a higher rank was reserved in heaven that He might be glorified.
• “By this, the Love of God was manifested in us that God has sent His only Begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.” (2)
What Christ paid on the cross for our salvation is astounding. The Lord of glory, who is the brightest display of the Father’s glory, came to earth to suffer and die so we might live forever with Him. Christ left heaven where He was worshiped and adored –He humbled Himself, and willingly came to earth to die for us poor sinners that we would stand justified, before God the Father and receive life. How can we come to grip with this mystery? “Think about His love.” Will you worship in holy awe for how He stood in your stead?
• “For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings.” (3)
Jesus the Caption of our Salvation is our leader teaching us how to submit, obey and magnify God. His humiliation and suffering will ultimately revert back to His glory in bringing in countless thousands to glory – who will sing eternal praise forever to the King of glory.
Lord, You became the greatest sacrifice ever known to man by dying for the sins of the world. What great love You displayed. Thank you for becoming the sacrificial Lamb that was slain for the remissions of my sin. Let me live in You, in wondrous liberty and freedom because of what You did for me. Amen.
Footnotes:
1. Isaiah 53:10
2. 1 John 4:9
3. Hebrews 2:10
All Scriptures taken from nas
Addressing Crisis Together Ministry 