Why Jesus' Death on the Cross
was Necessary
1. All was completed! – Jesus
had completed the mission He came to earth for. Philippians 2:5-11- Who,
being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be
grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being
made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled
himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God
exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every
name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in
heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus
Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
2. Scripture was fulfilled! –
From Jesus’ birth to the resurrection was prophesied. Matthew 26:52 - Put
your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword
will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at
once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would
the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” At that time
Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I leading a rebellion that you have come out with
swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching,
and you did not arrest me. But this has all taken place
that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.”
3. It is finished! – tetelesti!
(transaction/deal complete)- death has been defeated 1
Corinthians 15:55 - “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O
death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the
law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus
Christ.
4. Jesus gave up His Spirit in
order that we can receive the Holy Spirit.
John 14:26 - But the
Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach
you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I
leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Thank Jesus today and every day
for giving us all we need. Amen?
