Appreciating Jesus’ Sacrifice

As we hear sermons about Jesus’ crucifixion, sing about His death for our sins, and share the gospel, it’s important to keep a fresh perspective, so we never lose sight of the depth of its meaning.

Jesus suffered a horrible death by crucifixion, in addition to shame and rejection. Some may say, He didn’t suffer for as long as others have suffered. That is not the point; there is no suffering competition. Jesus’ sacrifice shows the depth of His love, since He went willingly for us, who are undeserving.

“For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.” Romans 5:7

How many of us would endure crucifixion, in order to rescue our enemies, even the very people who are inflicting the pain? Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them.” And we were all enemies before salvation (Romans 5:10).

He continues to show love by offering salvation to anyone who is willing, and for those who are saved, He is still interceding for us (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). While Jesus’ suffering has ended, His love has never ended.

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:4–6