Why did Jesus die…
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
So why did Jesus die?
So that we may be free of sin?
So that we may have an everlasting life?
Yes, but there is so much more to the crucifixion than just sin and everlasting life.
The night before He was crucified, Jesus prayed that we would know Him, and His Father (John 17:3). The word ‘know’ here is incredibly intimate, and speaks to the depth of the personal relationship He wants to have with us.
Salvation is often thought of as a post-death concept. That once we die, because we are saved, we get to spend an eternity in Heaven with Him. But there is more for us, so much more, right now – we don’t have to wait. Salvation is not just a benefit for the future.
In the Bible it says that we are called to reign in this life with Christ (Romans 5:17). It also says that we are co-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). In order for two rulers to come together and reign, there has to be a common understanding between them, and a conjoined love for those that they rule over. It takes a relationship.
If your life is filled with strife…
If your days are feeling long and blue…
If things are not working out…
If finances are always tight…
If it feels like there is no hope…
Those are all lies we have believed are part of what it is to be a Christian. The great news is that it isn’t true. The enemy came as a thief to rob, kill and destroy – but God came to give us life, and life in abundance (John 10:10).
The bible says that He came to set us free from present evil in this world. It is His will that we live a life that is abundant and free from the enemy’s ploy.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Jesus died for so much more than just our sins and salvation, He wants a relationship with us.
All of us, whoever you are.
You are so dearly loved.